Joule 150A MKII versus Atma-sphere Preamps

Isn't running differential balanced the raison d'etre of Atma-Sphere amps & preamps?

I do think it is the raison d'etre, but I'm not sure I could hear a difference based on the "quieter" potential of balanced operation. My system is pretty darn quiet. My quandry is that I don't want to own two preamps if I don't have to. I notice that many reviews of the Atma amps are actually using single-ended preamps, which makes me think it is fine, on the other hand you hear about the special "synergy" between the Atma pres and amps. I guess there is really only way to find out....

As I understand it, the basis for balanced designs comes from studio equipment. Unlike home use where 1-2 meters is typical for interconnect, studios often run 10-30 meters so noise rejection becomes critical. So balanced may measure lower noise, even in a home system, but is it audible? I wish someone would run a reliable test on this.

Another point, a few years ago I ask Jud about a balanced version of the Joule preamp. He said to make it truly balanced would require another gain stage and he did not believe that would be worthwhile (increased complexity in the circuit). He also mentioned the unlikelihood of noise with good quality interconnects of moderate length.

I thought the goal of "balanced" cables was to keep the shield separate from the "-" wire. In many RCA's the shield is connected to the "-" so that the noise collected by the shield may become a part of the amplified signal. Doesn't a "balanced" cable drain the noise collected by the drain wire and connect it directly to chassis earth ground, bypassing the "-" wire, hence never giving it the opportunity to pollute the amplifed signal. Am I misunderstanding this?

My other issue beside design approach is whether or not the MP-3 is as inherently good a preamp as the Joule 150A MKII. I love the Joule after having experimented with CAT,Lamm, and Placette Active. So quiet or not, I just don't know if the MP-3 is as a good a preamp, but again, I guess I just won't know till I get one in my system.

I've been a long time user of MP3/AS30. Prior to the MP3 I had a AI M3(single ended) as my preamp running to the AS30.
The combo worked fine with no issues. The MP3 was a sgnificant stepup but I suspect that's because the MP3 is a better preamp and not because it's balanced. If you like the Joule there shouldn't be any issues running it single ended with the AS amp.

Thanks Franks, I'm coming to that conclusion. I want to enjoy some M-60s without having to carry two preamps. I've spoken to a few folks who have made me comfortable with the idea that the Joule will work very well indeed, even if unbalanced. Thank you for keeping me from going over the deep end. But there is a ARC Ref 1 on sale....

I agree with Tvad as I have run my PSE HL-1 in both modes and the Balanced always seem to have a lower noise floor and offered more resolution;also when I last talked with Ralph he recommended using Mogami cable which I did and think it is excellant;also will not break the bank.