I’ve been interested in the Soundcraft Signature 22MTK, though I’m not sure about something.
The Soundcraft has 20 TRS inputs and my RYTM and A4 use unbalanced TS outputs. Would it matter if I used TS cables into the Soundcraft for the RYTM and A4?
Also I have an SH-101 and TT-303 that also use unbalanced TS instrument outs. Same issue.
Is it a bad idea to use TRS cables for TS/mono outputs? Trying to wrap my head around this.
Any help would be very much appreciated! Thank you!
Most mixers with balanced inputs are wired to also accept unbalanced TS just fine. For the unbalanced synths use a TS cable. The elektron instruments have what is called impedance balanced output which will work with a TRS cable(or TS just fine).
Cool. Thanks for the response. I’m just trying to get a better understanding of all this.
When in doubt, record a sample with TS and TRS cables and compare the result. If it sounds identical, you are good!
Q) What is the difference between balanced and unbalanced connections?
A)TS–tip and sleeve (1 conductor plus ground) is for unbalanced signals.
TRS–tip ring sleeve (2 conductor plus ground) is for balanced signals. With balanced cables, you can travel longer distances without picking up hum or noise…
Note: It is the signal that is unbalanced or not. Using a TRS or XLR cable does not make an unbalanced signal balanced. However, if you use a TS (or RCA cable with adapters) on balanced signal, the signal will become unbalanced. Keep in mind that both the source and destination gear must pass balanced signals and you must use TRS or XLR cables to maintain the balanced connection.
Balanced gear
|
TRS or XLR cable
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balanced gear = balanced connection
Balanced gear
|
TRS or XLR cable
|
unbalanced gear = unbalanced connection
Balanced gear
|
TS or RCA cable
|
balanced gear = unbalanced connection
unbalanced gear
|
TRS or XLR cable
|
unbalanced gear = unbalanced connection