Devices with impedance-balanced outputs actively drive the hot output only. The cold output is tied to ground via a resistor that matches (or balances) the output impedance of the hot signal conductor. In other words, there is no audio signal on the cold conductor, but, in a full balanced system, common-mode rejection will be maintained since the impedance is balanced between the two conductors.

RCA cable can go a considerable distance. But until we know how far we need to go, we really can not say what the best choice is.

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When connecting an active-balanced output to an unbalanced load, it is necessary to leave the cold output (pin-3) floating. Using an XLR connector, pin-3 should not be connected to anything. If a cable is used with pin-3 tied to pin-1 (shield), the output amplifier could be damaged. This type of connection establishes a low/no impedance path to ground. This means the amplifier will drain current, unimpeded, into ground, which is stressful to the output amplifier.

Note how the TRS side is only connected with Tip and Sleeve while RCA side is not using the shield. The miniDSP Flex will find a myriad uses in applications ranging from a compact digital stereo preamp through subwoofer integration and optimization to active speakers, home theater and recording studios. You just need to let your creativity do the rest! Hardware Features Now the thing is that pins 2 & 3 in a balanced arrangement, never have a potential with respect to ground, just each other.I know I'm coming in late on this one, but other people might benefit. The statement that "all pins must be connected" is not true. It will depend on the equipment and whether you are connecting to an input or output. In many cases, it is a best practice to jumper + and - on an input when connecting an unbalanced signal to a balanced input. So, in this case, yes all pins would be connected.

In this app note, we will demonstrate subwoofer integration for miniDSP'sstereoDirac Live processors using only the Dirac Live app for measurementA TS input is an unbalanced input. In unbalanced interconnection, the signal is defined by the voltage between the ground/shield and the other conductor. IF you are going to do a XLR to RCA conversion, then a Transformer based device, as we assume the Sescom is, would be the best choice.