Jeff-DNo, if my understanding is correct, the amp will still output a unbalanced signal, so plugging in a balanced cable into it will yield no real benefit. Someone can correct me if I'm wrong.
dwang040So basically I can get an adapter instead of multiple balanced cables? I know the balanced output has more power so will I still get that benefit if I plug in an adapter?
Jeff-DWhat benefit are you referring too? Cause the only benefit that I'm aware of for balanced cables is that they help eliminate any sort of interference/ noise that can get introduced into a cable. Hence why balanced cables are recommended if you have a long cable/ in a noisy environment. However, in this situation, since the amp is not balanced, you will not get the extra signal inversion needed for that noise cancelation. So, if you get an adapter, you can still experience noises intruded by environment, ex: electrical noises as there is no inverted signal to flip over.
Jeff-DNo, the x7s is not a fully balanced amp. Don't be fooled by the marketing hype. A lot of consumer electronics show an array of XLR inputs or XLR ouputs for a marketing reason. The so-called balanced inputs / ouputs simply the switched adaptors.
It will add another electronical conversion within the unit that may or may not degrade the SQ.
Food for thought : https://www.stereophile.com/features/335/index.html
Note : see the S/E to XLR or vice versa.
dwang040Well, balanced connection is perceived as 4 db hotter than S/E connection since for the long run over 50 ' to 100' , the live band(s) needs the boost in power and to avoid the interference. You are right on that the only real bebefits for using XLR connection is to prevent the interference .
Manufacture now a day simple puts a signal boost right after the XLR to S/E switch in side the unit to compensate for the " real" 4 db boost of the real XLR .
https://www.stereophile.com/features/335/index.html
dwang040 Back in the 80s , the reputable manufacture will disclosed if the products were fully balanced or not.
Now a day, everything goes to move the production lines. Sad !
Jeff-DSo is this thing really worth it? I have the x1s and I know the x7s is a better amp since its class a. I figured I would buy it instead of getting a jotunheim to save space on my desk since they are the same size and will stack well.
Jeff-DI have them both and stack them vertically. It works really well. The amp in the X7s is better in many ways. Be sure to go balanced to get the full impact. I've never had an issue running any headphones with it. Plenty of power.
mgoppertI used the balanced output with my Elex and I think it does sound better but is that just because its louder since its not truly balanced or is the benefit from having more power like how a more powerful amp can make headphones and speakers sound better overall?
Jeff-DAgain, don't expect any sound difference between balance and unbalanced. There's no sound signature difference when it comes to the two types of outputs. It's possible it sounds better as it does put out more power, which could allow a headphone to sound a bit "better" or it could be a placebo thing. Who knows. Overall, use what you feel sounds best. If you think the xlr output sounds better, or the jack output just isn't "loud enough" for you, then go with xlr. And if you think the jack outputs sound better, go for those.