Using the XLR-to-RCA balanced input adaptors
As stated in the owner’s manual, all 4 of the VRE-1’s inputs are actually balanced. I chose the connector arrangement based on a best-guess estimate of what most audiophiles are likely to have in their systems - one balanced source (XLR), and the rest unbalanced (RCA). If you have more than one balanced source and wish to take full advantage of its balanced mode of operation, I can provide custom-built adaptors to allow for this. Here is a photo of what they look like in operation:
photo by Frederic Beudot for 6Moons.com
I build these adaptors from premium parts to be as sonically transparent as possible, and they work exceptionally well. If you prefer, you can build them yourself. I choose silver-plated Neutrik XLR cable-mount female connectors, WBT Next-Gen silver cable- mount RCAs (#0110AG), and I use Wonder Wire for the connections. A separate 22ga, Teflon-insulated wire is used for the XLR pin 1 connection to chassis ground, and I terminate it with a stacking-type banana plug to facilitate the use of multiple adaptors. Connect the wires as follows (note that these are NOT typical XLR-RCA adaptors):
XLR pin 1 - flying lead to stacking banana plug (shield ground)
XLR pin 2 - to RCA center pin (plus hot)
XLR pin 3 - to RCA outer case (negative hot)
You can add whatever number you need, including converting all inputs to full-balanced operation if that is what your system requires.
Steve McCormack, designer - SMc Audio