Quote:
Originally Posted by Targus
If they're both 3 conductors, then the only difference is the shape of the plug. |
Well, they both aren't actually 3 conductor. XLR (at least in audio) is 3 conductor, and one of the pins is usually connected to the shell, and is ground. 1/4" or RCA are only 2 conductor cables. They are either twin wires, or a center and shield, where the shield is used as one of the 2 conductors.
But, I've been wondering about this topic myself....
I'm guessing that if one just uses a converter from RCA to XLR, or a cable with RCA on one end, and XLR on the other... there is really no advantage (maybe even a disadvantage?) over just going RCA to RCA or RCA to 1/4" (other than as scorch123 said, mechanical).
But, the real difference between these two types of connections is supposed to be balanced or unbalanced, correct?
If you run a proper XLR connection it will be balanced. But, the RCA outs on receivers and pre-amps are unbalanced from what I know. So, I guess to get balanced... one needs something like an ART Clean Box II or ART DTI? This way, you go RCA into this device with a very short cable, then XLR to XLR balanced to the amp.
But, from what I understand of this.... the advantage of balanced is to cut noise for long runs, correct? If that is the case... how long is long?
wikipedia says this of balanced:
In recording and for short cable runs in general, a compromise is necessary between the noise reduction given by balanced lines and the noise and distortion introduced by the extra circuitry they require.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Balanced_audio_connector
I'm trying to connect my Yamaha HTR-5890 to my ART SLA-1 amp. The Yamaha has RCA for pre-outs. The ART amp has 1/4" or XLR for inputs. I'm currently running RCA to 1/4" cables that are way too long. I only need them to be about 6', and mine are like 30'+ (it was all I had... so I used them). Unfortunately, they are picking up quite a bit of hum from our CRT (when I power it off... the hum goes away).
I also have to run the cables past the CRT in my current entertainment center. Fortunately, I plan to get an LCD, and go from an entertainment center to more of a bench type unit... which will shorten the cable and eliminate running past the display. I'm sure this will all help.
So... my question for anyone who knows....
Is there any advantage of running the XLR for a short run (like 6') that would outweigh the possible downside of trying to convert unbalanced to balanced? If not... then I'll just stick with RCA to 1/4" and just get new high quality cables.
Thanks,
-Steve