Preamps with balanced ins/outs and remote

I've got a VAC preamp that is transformer coupled on the output, and one can switch inputs b/t single ended and balanced (I assume also using transformers). I am told that this is a fully balanced preamp. Does that really qualify? It is fully balanced on the ins and the outs, but I think it must be converted to SE while within the preamp (I'm guessing that). The output impedence is very very low, which is good.

How does splitting the signal (or combining a balanced signal) with an Xformer affect the sound relative to having the preamp use 2 seperate paths all the way through?

Again - I don't KNOW that this is teh way the VAC works, but I think it is..............

Thanks for all the input. Question! How can you determine if a preamp is truly balanced rather than just balanced connectors?

Do some research on the product before purchasing to make sure the product is what it claims to be.

Seadogs1, if the preamp is internally balanced, you should be able to get an output from the preamp by driving pin 2 and pin 1, and also by driving *pin 3* and pin 1 (pin 1 being ground). If it is unresponsive on one of those inputs, say pin 3 for example, then the preamp has the connector for convenience only.

The exception would be if the preamp employs and input transformer, but such use is rare in high end audio, although it would not surprise me in the least to see some products that use them. As a result, if in doubt check with the manufacturer.

I understand the Zesto Leto has an input transformer coupled with an output transformer. Is this a variation of balanced and does it retain the advantages of cables with respect to impedance?