Balanced 1/4" output

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tonefight
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Balanced 1/4" output

Post by tonefight »

I've got a mixer with balanced 1/4" outputs for the monitors. I used to run from the stage and use a regular 1/4 cable straight into a power amp and that worked fine. Now I'm gonna need to run it through a snake with XLR sends. Should I just use an adapter or would I get a better signal if I either make or buy balanced 1/4 to XLR cables? How much difference are we talking in signal?
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skipisode
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Post by skipisode »

Anything over 5-10 ft should be balanced or you will lose signal and also risk noise interference. Since you are now using a snake, remember that the signal is being passed the full length of its cable as well. Balanced is always a better option.
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lonewolf
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Post by lonewolf »

If the mixer output is 1/4" TRS balanced, then all you need is a 1/4" TRS to XLR cable on that end of the snake.

The other end depends on what your amp's inputs are like. If it also has TRS balanced inputs, then you can use the same kind of adapter cable, with opposite XLR gender. If it also has XLR balanced inputs, then you can use a regular mic cable.

If the amp's inputs are unbalanced TS, you can get an XLR to 1/4" TS impedance matching transformer.
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tonefight
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Post by tonefight »

OK, I'll see what I can buy if not maybe my best bet will be to just rewire 2 of the sends on the mixer side of the snake with 1/4 balanced jacks. ( stereo type )
Thanks for the input.
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tonefight
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Post by tonefight »

Hey They actually make an adapter for this if I knew it was that easy I woudn't of bothered you guys. I don't know why the hell a board would come without XLR outputs in the first place but $16 will take care of it. Thanks again.
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BloodyFingers
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mmm

Post by BloodyFingers »

My mixer has xlr and trs outputs. I use them all. I also have 4 sub groups which have 8 trs outputs which can be used for monitor sends....
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