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View Full Version : 1/4" outputs vs. RCA outputs?



Schreiber
06-17-2012, 12:40 PM
Wasn't quite sure where this question would go, figured here would be best though.

If I understand correctly, RCA is unbalanced & 1/4" is balanced, correct? So if I got an adaptor for 1/4" to XLR, running a long cable would be fine. But with RCA to XLR, it's unbalanced & a long cable will pick up buzz?

Synaxis
06-17-2012, 01:12 PM
1/4 TRS is balanced. 1/4 TS is unbalanced.

http://www.tdpri.com/forum/attachments/tele-technical/123939d1334625955t-4-way-install-leaves-lots-buzzzzzzz-ts-trs-illustration-jpg

Yes, you are correct that running XRL would be much better over RCA.

RCA cables are meant for short runs for equipment in close proximity, and shouldn't really be longer than 6 feet.

Just make sure your 1/4 cable is TRS (see picture above).

Schreiber
06-17-2012, 01:27 PM
Awesome, exactly what I needed to know :) +Rep for sure!

ampnation
06-17-2012, 04:42 PM
In order to convert unbalanced to balanced, the best way to achieve the change is via what is called an isolation transformer. A good inexpensive one is the ART DTI. It can also convert the other direction.