Balanced vs. Non-balanced

So, "listen and decide" is likely the right answer, but I’d also ask "how is balanced achieved in each?".  If they take the unbalanced output and run it through and inverting opamp - fail. Unbalanced will be better. You may be srurprised but this covers the majority of implementations.  If the circuitry is balanced inherently in the previous device, then by all means use it. Unless you have a nonie problem, balanced will have minimal benefit.

I designed some inherently balanced stuff that was produced in high end volumes.  In those balanced was a tiny bit better but only when everything else was done properly.

I should add that the biggest benefit is when there is ground noise.  Done right balanced takes ground noise out of the picture.

I would use the XLR on your source if I were you.  Happy listening.

I have XLR  cables with pure silver wiring, so yes, I'd use it, but honestly it is rare that we need to in a home. 

There have been cases when I was at a show in NY and we had poorly shielded RCA cables and we were picking up a local radio station and I would have loved to have XLR's for this... but alas. 

At home, with short runs, the one major benefit IMHO is the locking nature of the plugs!

PS - The one area where IMHO we should be using XLR's exclusively is from phono cartridge to phono stage, but no one listens to me. 

Obviously your ears should be the final arbiter, but you might wanna check if the LM-24 is fully balanced — I’m pretty sure the Parasound is, but if the LM isn’t that might be something to consider.  I think it might be as well but not sure.