Balanced XLR to SN2?

You'll need some custom made interconnects to go from balanced to single ended. Does the DAC not also offer a single ended output?  Also be aware that the output level may be much higher than normal...

It'll depend on how the DAC generates the balanced output (transformer coupled, actively driven etc) so you'd need to bear that in mind when making or purchasing a cable. If the DAC has RCA outputs then just use those with an RCA to DIN cable to the SN2. 

I agree with James - if its a true balanced output - optimum performance won't be necessarily achieved just by a wiring change - you will most likely need some componentry to convert a balanced load into an unbalanced load - such as a BALUN transformer or some sort of active circuitry. Best try and match unbalanced to unbalanced and balanced to balanced for best performance and max rejection of noise/RFI etc

Yeah I'm not thinking of cables alone but perhaps an additional device as well. 

Why does it seem that I'm the only one who wants this kind of solution?

Don't you all know that balanced XLR sounds better than single ended RCA?

DynFan160 posted:

 

Don't you all know that balanced XLR sounds better than single ended RCA?

Not necessarily. If an amp supports balanced connections then it's worth trying over RCA but again it depends on how the balanced output is implemented. 

With the DAC you are getting and the amp you already have, you're giving yourself a problem where there really isn't one...

I'm talking the Schiit Yiggy. Many reports say that XLR sounds better than single ended.

And i'd expect those reports are where the amplifier has balanced inputs.

If you're really determined to go this way using the balanced outputs, i'd speak to Schiit and get their thoughts on your particular setup. They know their output stage topology (looks like an discrete active balanced output from a brief look at the specs) better than you or i do and can recommend what they think would be best. 

James

DynFan160 posted:

I'm talking the Schiit Yiggy. Many reports say that XLR sounds better than single ended.

Dyna .. I have a Schiit Yggy connected RCA to RCA into my 252 with Tellurium Diamond Black .. it's really rather good.  If your heart is set on the Yggy I would suggest you try it in an unbalanced configuration first before deciding whether to invest the time, effort and expense in going the balanced route.

Is there a reason you didn't get RCA-DIN?

None other than I had the 2 TQ RCA cables in my cable box .. they're a tad expensive to be just lying around so I put them to work.  I've felt no urge to replace them.

There is a slight wrinkle to the story that may or may not interest you .. I initially used the balanced outputs on the Yggy to connect to a Schiit Mjolnir 2 headphone amp (which has balanced inputs) .. at the time I was far more interested in hearing the results of that experiment than routing the balanced outputs through the 252 .. The headphone experiment was very successful .. though I no longer have the Mjolnir 2, but that's another story.