Deshapiro - If the only problem were the + and - reversal, then the system would produce sound though phase inverted. I would reexamine to determine if there is a Balanced/Single-ended switch on the components that need to be toggled into the appropriate position. Then double check the pinouts such that Ground isn't connected to either + or - signals by mistake. (Verify that pin 1,2 and 3 are in the same physical position. I've seen different pin numbering orientations for XLR. What "standard"?) This is just a start, but goodluck.
Please help with balanced interconnects!
Please, somebody, I need help. I yielded to temptation and bought a new preamp. I had previously been running a Sony SCD-1 with the analog out(SACD) and the digital out through a DAC. These had been going through a midfi HT processor with RCA inputs only. Well, I bought a new preamp(through Audiogon, of course!). The preamp only has balanced connections. I had bought some balanced IC's in anticipation of this. So I hooked every thing up and settled in to listen to the music. Nothing!. I went and checked all the connections. I settled back in and ...nothing. In desperation I actually reread the manuals of the preamp, the DAC and the SCD-1.It appears as if the preamp has balanced connections with pin 2 + and pin 3-. The DAC is reversd as is the Sony. Could this be the problem? if so, please help. TIA, David