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All things being equal (hypothetical) which do you prefer, XLR or RCA?

Hello All,

Just curious here. All things being equal would you go balanced or unbalanced if you have the option for both? I only ask because I've never really compared-though I have gone both routes at different times. I have gone the balanced route now (power amp to pre, and DAC to pre), but wonder which route you all would choose...Just curious and having some fun...
kingbr
dave_b's avatar
dave_b
3,159 posts
 
XLR
antigrunge2
1,331 posts
 
Dual differential XLR is less prone to interference but can be a bit sluggish compared to the best single ended implementations. Single ended is preferred on purist systems based on SET amps from Kondo, Shindo, Audionote or Wavac. I guess the easiest way to look at it: short runs in low interference environments RCA, otherwise XLR
testpilot
895 posts
 
Not so hypothetical as some companies offer both rca and xlr connections on single ended only equipment for purely convenience sake. In these situations, I prefer xlr for their more secure connection and strain relief.
ron_hartman
52 posts
 
Over the past year, I've had a couple of opportunities to compare RCA vs XLR interconnects of the same brand/model, length (1 meter). The XLR's definately sound better in my system. More open, solid image, detail. Connected between a Marantz SA-10 and PM-10. Maybe those particular components were designed to be best with XLRs.
kingbr OP
269 posts
 
Thanks for the responses! @testpilot and @ron_hartman these are EXACTLY the kind of responses I was hoping for - thanks Folks!
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