Deleted
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Post by Deleted on Apr 30, 2014 23:33:20 GMT
My SM-6 has both balanced and unbalanced outputs. My amp (connected to my speakers) has unbalanced inputs only. My main listening at the moment is carried out via my speakers. I bought some Neutrik xlr-to-rca adapters to allow me to have my X-Cans V2 connected up as well, thereby using both outputs.
Now I know the theory that xlr is better for longer runs, which is why its used in studios, but being in the mood for pointless faffing around . . . I mean rigorous scientific experiment, I swapped over the ic's from the rca out into the xlr adapters. So now the balanced output was feeding my amp thru the adapters.
I heard a difference. I would describe the difference as being a clearer soundstage. Easier to locate and follow different instruments in the mix. I don't know what I was expecting, but this is a nice clear sound. I swapped back and forth a few times over the course of an evenings listening session (rather than quick A-B ing, which I think becomes confusing) and each time I liked the slightly clearer images that were produced via the xlr to rca adapters.
So . . . could the higher voltage or better SN ratio account for this , or am I fooling myself?
BTW, I'm quite open to the possibility that my ears are deceiving me . . .
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solderdude
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Post by solderdude on May 1, 2014 8:09:32 GMT
What's in the adapters (I assume only one half of the signal is used)? Balanced has double the voltage but when used unbalanced (usually adapters simply use the common and + wire) the voltage isn't doubled. Some adapters (the thicker ones) may actually have transformers in it maximizing the unbalancing with galvanic separation as well. From what I can make out on pictures is that the RCA out is just one half of the balanced out and should have the same output level (when used asymmetrical) They appear to be the exact same circuit, only the connector seems to differ SM6 amplification/buffering is discrete, volume control by IC, input selection/muting with relays. As the whole amp is symmetrical the volume control is as well. The volume IC's I know off (that are symmetrical) perform MUCH better with symmetrical signals than asymmetrical. MUCH lower THD from those IC's in that operational mode. All RCA signals appear to be made symmetrical and then 'processed' A question is if you were aware which configuration was playing. For a rigorous experiment someone else should be swapping cables (or pretend to do so).
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Post by Deleted on May 1, 2014 20:07:01 GMT
Sorry Frans, I've managed to confuse even you! I mean my source, the Cambridge Audio Stream Magic 6 ( SM 6 ). Here a couple of under the hood shots. "A question is if you were aware which configuration was playing. For a rigorous experiment someone else should be swapping cables (or pretend to do so)."
The answer is yes, it was me who changed the cables! I'll get my better half to change them (or not!) and see if I can tell the difference that way. However, I definitely detected a difference in sound which I determined was slightly better in the way that I described.
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Crispy
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Post by Crispy on May 1, 2014 20:23:14 GMT
Sorry Frans, I've managed to confuse even you! I mean my source, the Cambridge Audio Stream Magic 6 ( SM 6 ). Here a couple of under the hood shots. "A question is if you were aware which configuration was playing. For a rigorous experiment someone else should be swapping cables (or pretend to do so)."
The answer is yes, it was me who changed the cables! I'll get my better half to change them (or not!) and see if I can tell the difference that way. However, I definitely detected a difference in sound which I determined was slightly better in the way that I described.
Jeff, I ran my stream magic direct to my power amps for a few weeks and decided that the direct route was not quite right for me, too harsh and clinical. I then hooked up my XCan V2/pre and immediately noticed the nice warm valve sound that i have been used to for a few years now - it also allows me to listen to my SM6 through headphones again without buying any adaptors. If the sound change was that prominent I am sure you will hear it again when your missus swaps the cables or not.
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solderdude
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Post by solderdude on May 1, 2014 21:25:33 GMT
From what I can see the outputs are being fed the same signal. That is the RCA seems to get only the + signal where the XLR's are being fed the + and - signal
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