is electro emc1 balanced?

All,

FYI...The EMC-1 is a TRUE balanced design. As Judit basically states, it is always a good idea to NOT assume a component is true balanced, however, just because it has XLR inputs/outputs. Always check with the maufacturer or dealer to confirm if you ever have any doubts.

Best Regards...Mike - Father & Son Audio

And it DOES SOUND BETTER running XLRs. Don't even consider getting one of these...especially with the Mk II 24bit/192kHz DAC unless you have a truly-balanced preamp too!

Sub--you oughta hear my new MKII with latest factory spec playing through a Mullardized c-j 14LS.

I auditioned the latest EMC I Mk II 'UP' model- bass was exceptional, and good soundstage- no complaints (recently sold a Capitole MK I, and I would consider the EMC slightly superior, mainly due to the bass- build quality appears better as well). HOWEVER, they both do not compare in my opinion to a properly executed transport/dac combo- separates all the way!!