Introduction
When it comes to audio technology, choosing the right cable can make all the difference. Two common types of cables used in audio settings are balanced and unbalanced cables. In this post, we’ll explore the differences between these two cable types and examine their respective strengths and weaknesses.
Unbalanced Cables
Unbalanced cables are the most common type of cable used in audio settings. They are often used for shorter cable runs (up to 20 feet) and are designed to carry a signal from an instrument to an amplifier or preamp.
Unbalanced cables consist of two conductors: a signal wire and a ground wire. The signal wire carries the audio signal, while the ground wire is used as a “return path” for the signal.
One of the downsides of unbalanced cables is that they are susceptible to interference from electromagnetic fields (EMF) and radio-frequency interference (RFI). This can result in unwanted noise, hum, and buzzing in your audio signal.
Balanced Cables
Balanced cables are designed to minimize interference from EMF and RFI. They are often used for longer cable runs (over 20 feet) and are commonly found in professional audio settings.
Balanced cables consist of three conductors: a signal wire, a ground wire, and a third wire called a “shield” or “ground wire.” The signal wire carries the audio signal, the ground wire is used as a return path, and the shield wire acts as a barrier between the signal wire and the outside world.
The result is a cable that is less susceptible to interference, which means a cleaner, more stable audio signal. Balanced cables are commonly used in microphones, mixers, and other professional audio equipment.
Comparison
| Criteria | Balanced Cable | Unbalanced Cable |
|---|---|---|
| Interference | Low | High |
| Cable Length | Long (over 20 ft) | Short (up to 20 ft) |
| Use | Professional Audio Settings | Consumer Audio Settings |
| Cost | Expensive | Cheap |
Conclusion
When it comes to choosing between balanced and unbalanced cables, there is no “one size fits all” solution. It really depends on your specific audio setup and your budget.
If you’re setting up a professional audio system or working with longer cable runs, balanced cables are the way to go. They offer superior performance and a cleaner audio signal. On the other hand, if you’re working with shorter cable runs and have a limited budget, unbalanced cables will suffice.
References
[1] Balanced and Unbalanced Audio Connections