Question for the community: What is the point of having balanced inputs if the output is not balanced. For instance - If I had a Gustard X12 and fed the H10 with the XLR interconnects would that be all-for-nothing if the headphone output doesn't take advantage of the balanced chain?
maharajavermaA balanced interconnect is the practical optimum analog connection. It's primary advantage is superior common-mode electrical noise rejection, which is nice when used for long cable runs. It is particularly useful (even vital) in high-level electrical noise environments, such as around computers, electrical machinery, power and lighting equipment, etc. like you find in stage environments, recording studios, and so on. That's why balanced XLR cabling is considered 'pro audio' gear. And for the same reasons, a balanced connection between the source and the amp is beneficial to the consumer too, regardless if there is a balanced connection amp-to-headphone (the benefit of that is a topic of debate itself; it's worth noting that most proponents of it will admit to the effect being miniscule). It's really nice to know you have a robust and uber-noise and interference-resistant connection between yer source/DAC and amp, to help preserve that black background and dynamic headroom. Totally worth it to use between an X12 and H10.
maharajavermaLake people and Violectric produce equipment for a professionals. The industry standard is XLR hence why its on the back as an option to hook up to pro gear and since the Gustard H10 is a clone of the v200 it makes sense to have it.