Behringer Eurorack

[Kal]

Ok . . .. I am not very proficient at all this audio stuff so maybe somebody can answer this one for me...

What is all this talk about balanced and unbalanced connections?

I want to connect my eurorack to my computer's soundcard via its 2 Main Outputs. Do I use mono 1/4" cables (unbalanced?) or stereo 1/4" cables (balanced?)?

I'm confused on this. ANy help and idiot proof explanations would be appreciated!

 

[AlChuck]

What kind of jacks does your soundcard have? If it has balanced jacks, use balanced cables. If they're unbalanced, there's no point in using the balanced cables.

Balanced cables have superior noise rejection, which becomes especially apparent when the cable runs are long.

 

[Kal]

BAlanced?

It's a 1/8" Line input on a SB Live soundcard.

I have no idea whta that is? Is it balanced or unbalanced???

 

[RWhite]

Your mixer uses either balanced or unbalanced cables.

The 1/8 connector on your sound card is unbalanced.

 

[Kal]

Thanks fellaz!

I guess I'll have to buy another sound card for balanced line inputs, huh?

Anyy suggestions (cheaper the better!)

 

[Garak]

Balanced isn't that important for short line level runs. All mic level signels should be balanced.

All 1/8" stuff is unbalanced and usually stereo. So what you want is a cable that goes from 1/8" stereo(Tip ring shield) to two 1/4"(Tip sheild) connectors.

Most pro soundcards have balanced inputs and outputs and use 1/4" Tip ring shield (TRS) connectors.

 

[JLavely]

What is the actual definition of "Balanced" and "Unbalanced"?

 

[rivercity]

A little off topic, and not important at all, but i think its Tip-Ring-Sleeve not Tip-Ring-Shield