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XLR 2 RCA? Edit: (I meant RCA to XLR)

SuperDerpBro

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Is it possible to use XLR to RCA cables to make something like the Fosi ZA3 have two inputs? Like one from DAC and one from a CD player?

I've seen the cables.. but NFI if this can create problems heh

Cheers :)
 
Probably as long as you dont turn them on at the same time. Your better off adding a A/B switch
 
I see an RCA/XLR input toggle on the front of the ZA3 (basically the A/B switch @EJK mentions). Seems do-able to me?
 
Yes
So why do so u need a rca to xlr. Does the cd and dac only have rca? And do you have a way of controlling volume on the dac and cd player?
 
There is no good way to convert XLR to RCA.

You can do it, but performance will likely take a hit:
 
If he meant XLR output to RCA input, then such a combination is not good because it can damage the signal source because the (-) signal is switched to GND.
The opposite connection, RCA output to XLR input, does not have these problems and can be used.
 
Cold can also be left disconnected. In either case, the result is suboptimal.
But how much "audibly" subpar? Enough for the OP and his ears to invest in an A/B box?

Some balanced receivers will do the +6dB make-up when the inverting input is shunted to ground (the unbalanced input use-case).
 
Oh - I missed the OP was trying to use two balanced sources - one into the RCA. I assumed he was doing two unbalanced source units, and trying to use one into the XLR input. (12 hour shift almost over - a lil delirious over 'yander :eek: )
 
There is no good way to convert XLR to RCA.

You can do it, but performance will likely take a hit:
Please don't be mad at me if I correct you, but there are very good ways to convert XLR to RCA or balanced to SE and vice versa. This is mostly based on the corresponding components from TI, THAT or 3 pieces OPA solutions.
There is no real loss of quality, in music production this is done twice on almost every device with XLR cabling, i.e. X times during recording and editing.

We once did a blind test by converting 5 times in a row with the THAT components and comparing it with a continuous cable. No chance of reliably hearing a difference.
 
Please don't be mad at me if I correct you, but there are very good ways to convert XLR to RCA or balanced to SE and vice versa. This is mostly based on the corresponding components from TI, THAT or 3 pieces OPA solutions.
There is no real loss of quality, in music production this is done twice on almost every device with XLR cabling, i.e. X times during recording and editing.

We once did a blind test by converting 5 times in a row with the THAT components and comparing it with a continuous cable. No chance of reliably hearing a difference.
Yes, active converters offer a good way to convert Bal to SE.

I should've been more precise in my OP.
 
Thanks for all the responses!

To clarify, it would be
DAC-RCA to ZA3-RCA
CD player-RCA to ZA3-XLR

:D
 
I don't see a fundamental problem with that. That being said, It may be a better idea to obtain a "proper" RCA->XLR cable (the kind that provides non-zero CMRR) and use it for the DAC, relegating the RCA input for use for the CD player. The latter is much less likely to get you in trouble with ground loops (most of them are IEC Class II devices) so should be fine with the plain unbalanced input.
 
Opps lol. Fixed.

Thanks everyone.

I might just buy a small Amp/DAC combo that also has analog in.
 
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