IMO, for unused rca INPUT jacks shorting plugs are preferable to caps, although of course in many cases I would not expect either one to make any difference.@almarg Is it even remotely possible that shorting plugs could cause some kind of "damage" (loosely and widely defined) to whatever audio equipment one would happen to install them on? |
@bdp24 Thank you very much for that info. That pricing is good. Although you purchased them years ago and we know prices only head north as time marches on :) I'll give them a call. In my case I only have phono inputs as I don't have an analog turntable. I would imagine if shorting plugs make any difference at all, shorting the phono inputs should make the greatest, so I'm intending to short those (as any other input). |
I can’t envision a design in which a shorting plug applied to an RCA **input** would cause any problems. Consider the fact that the essentially zero ohm impedance presented to the input by a shorting plug is not greatly different than the very low output impedances (e.g., 10 ohms or perhaps even less in some cases) of some components that might be used to drive that input. @almarg Sorry to belabor this. I’m merely operating out an abundance of caution in this regard :) I take your statement to *include* an LFE subwoofer RCA input as well as a phono input. Therefore, *any* type or kind of RCA input where audio is concerned would fall under the same umbrella where RCA shorting of input jacks are concerned. And, I surmise the most benefit (if any benefit can be realized at all), would or should be from a phono input, which in the case of my amp has a phono input impedance of 47k Ohms, according to manufacturer spec. EDIT: I also realize that operating out an abundance of caution might mean do nothing in this regard :) |
You're welcome @almarg And, thank you too! I don't believe the RCA/XLR input scenario applies in my case. I'm using a Musical Fidelity M6si (which has phone RCA in) and Golden Ear Triton Reference (which has LFE RCA in). I believe the scenario you are speaking of, where the RCA and XLR input is "shared" (i.e. one or the other) would be, for example, a Pass Labs INT-250. It's 1 and 2 inputs support RCA and XLR, however, it doesn't appear as though that unit wants both RCA and XLR connections in its 1 and/or 2 inputs simultaneously. |
There is a small operation making and selling true RCA shorting plugs: Aurora Tronics in Sandy Hook, CT (phone number 203/426-9599). I bought some a couple of years ago, and they were cheap: $19.95 for 20 plugs. They also offer RCA phono cap covers (non-shorting, for outputs), at $7.95 for 20. They sent them to me with free shipping! Cardas’ protective caps look nice, but do nothing, claims for providing shielding against RF and EMI notwithstanding. @bdp24 Appreciate that recommendation, but it appears to be a dead-end. The number is not valid, and the 860 version of CT area codes is a different organization. Googling for this outfit is also unsuccessful. So, are there any other recommendations as to where to obtain caps and shorting plugs? |
Just a follow up on my endeavors where RCA shorting plugs are concerned..... I’ve obtained and installed these: https://www.amazon.com/Viborg-Audio-Stopper-Plated-Protector/dp/B017DH76VS/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qi... I *cannot* detect a difference in the way my Musical Fidelity noise floor emanates the slightest "hiss" (no music source but volume cranked past 12) with or without the shorting plugs. So I’ll leave them on for "theoretical advantage". I *can* detect a difference when I put them on the LFE input of my Golden Ear Triton Reference speakers. The otherwise (without caps) slight "wind tunnel breath of air) sound that is typical of speakers with internal amps does not seem to be present or if present has been lowered. My assumption is that whatever benefit could be obtained by shorting inputs is the same regardless of whether or not the amp is class B or D, correct? All good in any case :) Happy New Year everyone!! |
