Balanced/Unbalanced Inputs?

  • Thread starter Thread starter bbop73
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bbop73

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I have a focurite twin trak pre that i'm sending through an m-audio firewire410. My problem (from what I've gathered) is the 410 only has 2 1/4" unbalanced (TS) jacks that I can use to bypass the onboard preamps. As so, I'm getting a lot of noise in the signal. However, while monitoring direct through the pre, the noise is gone. I'm thinking of several solutions at this point: 1) sell the soundcard and get a better one with balanced (TRS) jacks; 2) purchase the optional a/d card for the twin trak and connect via s/pdif.

Also my budget is limited at this time, so cost is an important factor. Thanks in advance for your opinions.
 
I'm pretty sure. The cables I'm using to connect from mic pre to 410 are not mogami, but a step below. Gold 1/4" ends...maybe pro link, monster? Not sure. I paid about $15-17 per one meter cord at GC. It could be my xlr cable though. I know it's a cheapo. I'll try to upgrade that when i have the dough. However, I read where the 1/4" unbalanced inputs would produce more hiss than the balanced. What's up with that?
 
Unbalanced cables are more susceptible to interference than balanced but it's usually only over longer cable runs that it's a problem. You sure you don't have some kind of electrical grounding problem?
 
I don't think I have a grounding problem. It's a new house, so electrical should be good. Could it be that I'm using bus power for 410 instead of wall wart?
 
Sounds like a balanced into unbalanced input problem (impeadance). It makes the unused conductor act like an antanea. I'd seriously considder the $250 upgrade to the opt A/D card.
-k
 
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