RCA or XLR?
Do you have a clear preference? I sort of do- I like the solid connection XLR provides, but am not sold that XLR is intrinsically makes for a better sounding cable. In my system, I found preamp to amp, XLR is superior, however, I also found I prefer RCA when going from my Pass phono stage to my Pass preamp. Bottom line- experimenting is your friend
@sealegs read, "pricey XLR's you buy from Guitar Center or some other pro-audio retailer." |
It’s all about design and synergy. As already noted, if your great is fully balanced, it generally sounds better with XLR cables. If it’s designed for single ended connections, will generally sound better using those. Some gear has XKR’s but isn’t fully balanced. It’s really about the gear and its design. I have fully balanced gear currently, from my DAC to my pre to my amp. They all sound better using the XLR’s due to design. |
My limited XLR experience XLR is not always properly implemented, so verify if you can. Perhaps others can give advice about this. Short runs in home systems, I do not believe we need the improved shielding, but it doesn't hurt anything. Locking XLR connectors are nice, I changed all my RCAs to locking type connectors. Moving any cable can inadvertently disrupt a connection. Signal Strength: Not always, but most often I think, (if implemented correctly) XLR signal strength is higher than RCA, and this can allow you to keep a volume control in a more advantageous position, or drive equipment 'less hard'. I have heard volume differences, but not any perceived 'better' or 'preferred' sound when I have tried alternate outputs/inputs. |
