Phono cable

[Redacted]

Every cartridge is balanced. See the 4 pins, 2 for each channel. Two of them are connected together within the TT to the shields of the coax cable.

So how come there are only 2 wires for each L and R channels, and not 3? By balanced, I assume differential pair...

 

[Ropeburn]

So how come there are only 2 wires for each L and R channels, and not 3? By balanced, I assume differential pair...

Simple: one side (negative) is simply grounded. That's historically grown, since by standard a phono connection is unbalanced, and so are the connectors used (DIN and RCA).

 

[morillon]

Given that it will essentially be for use with MM cartridges, it would be a strange idea not to choose low-capacitance cables—or, since it's DIY, to opt for an optimized "short" length.
(capacitance of the inner part of the arm? to estimate the sum...)

 

[Redacted]

Simple: one side (negative) is simply grounded. That's historically grown, since by standard a phono connection is unbalanced, and so are the connectors used (DIN and RCA).

exactly my point. Why not differential signals to reduce CM noise?
People pay extra for preamp to amp links with XLRs and balanced signals, so why not from a spinny machine & cartridge?

 

[Ropeburn]

exactly my point. Why not differential signals to reduce CM noise?
People pay extra for preamp to amp links with XLRs and balanced signals, so why not from a spinny machine & cartridge?

But you can get balanced output turntables - if you're willing to pay extra. The technology exists, it's just that this one time even most vinyl enthusiasts are right - it's not worth it. I certainly agree: however enjoyable the format (it really is all in all), it's still so deeply flawed and technically limited, a balanced output won't save it from that.

Worrying about common mode noise? With -30 to -20dB mechanical surface noise by standard? Please. Unless of course you're a laboratory technician every time you play a record, and your ground noise is unusually bad. Lol.

If I had more money and wanted a nice turntable, I'd get something like a chunky, heavy Technics 1200-1500 something with a sturdy tonearm and good mechanical characteristics. Plus a micro line whatever Ortofon cartridge and a nice adjustable preamp for say 500 each. And done. Those properties are important, as opposed to balanced cartridge output which won't change a thing in the whole - let's be honest - micromechanical mess of a system.

 

[LTig]

So how come there are only 2 wires for each L and R channels, and not 3? By balanced, I assume differential pair...

A differential pair needs only 2 wires. The shield is a separate connection and not related to the signal source.

 

[paru1]

I switched from Van de hul hybrid (came with arm) to Yannis Tome XLR out of the UK and have been a happy camper with my vintage SME V/SME10/Koetsu RSP

 

[Ruediger]

I switched from Van de hul hybrid (came with arm) to Yannis Tome XLR out of the UK and have been a happy camper with my vintage SME V/SME10/Koetsu RSP

I assume the Yannis is around the same low capacity as the VDH?

But what problem did the different layout rca/xlr plugs solve for you? Was there interference with the VDH?

 

[Balle Clorin]

Typical phono cables at 4ft have 95-125 pF. Add minimum 50pf for RIAA and you are already in the high range of Audio Technica 100-200pF..