• rod_f
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Topic: Balanced to Unbalanced Connections

In the Babyface Pro FS manual it states:

The short circuit protected, low impedance XLR line outputs do not operate servo balanced! When connecting unbalanced equipment, make sure pin 3 of the XLR output is not
connected. A connection to ground might cause a decreased THD (higher distortion) and
increased power consumption!

So you suggest using pins 1&2

But looking at decent transformer converters they tend to use Pins 2&3.
This is Canford Audio in the UK:https://www.canford.co.uk/Products/2125 … ono-female

https://i.ibb.co/P6Zg33d/Canford-balanced-to-unbalanced.jpg


And this is Neutrik's own:https://www.neutrik.co.uk/product/na2m-d0b-tx

https://i.ibb.co/VBDmZsh/Neutrik-balanced-to-unbalanced.jpg


Is the RME output non-standard or am I misunderstanding something ?

2 Reply by MC

  • MC
  • MC
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Re: Balanced to Unbalanced Connections

This is about a transformerless, electronically balanced output stage. And unbalanced inputs connected to them. No relationship to your two pics.

Regards
Matthias Carstens
RME

MC's Website

  • rod_f
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Re: Balanced to Unbalanced Connections

I don't think I was clear in my post - I'm not saying the Babyface is wired like this.
The pictures are the internals of 2 high quality connectors that I might use to connect the interface outputs to a domestic amplifier.
I was asking if they are incompatible because they use pins 2&3 when the manual specifically says not to connect to 3.
Or does the advice only apply to a direct (without transformer) connection.

4 Reply by MC

  • MC
  • MC
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Re: Balanced to Unbalanced Connections

It applies to the XLR output of the Babyface if you connect an unbalanced device. I still don't get it - if you connect the above transformer-based adapters - they are fully balanced, so what is the problem not to use normal, balanced cables between BF and these?

Regards
Matthias Carstens
RME

MC's Website

  • Registered: 2020-12-19
  • Posts: 59

Re: Balanced to Unbalanced Connections

I plug into many types of house systems, and this thread has me concerned.
When the house system input is unbalanced (let's say 1/4" TS-F), I plug my 1/4" TRS-M into an adapter: 1/4" TS-F to 1/4" TS-M. I am *assuming* that the adapter connector on the input side touches only one of Tip or Ring ...

Will this satisfy the Babyface requirement?? Would there ever be an adapter that spans both tip and ring??

Would there be one that might connect ring and not tip - connecting pin 3 and not pin 2? Would that be bad?

Sorry for the Noob questions. I am on the road with no continuity tester and want to put the Babyface to use without concerns in this area ...

Clint Goss - 2xBF Pro FS, UCX II, UFX II; 3xWin10Pro22H2
WindSynth:Sylphyo Cantabile Ableton Push3S