SACD players come with two types of outputs: balanced and unbalanced. Balanced outputs use two conductors to transmit the signal, while unbalanced outputs use only one. This difference in the way that the signal is transmitted has a number of implications for sound quality.
Balanced outputs are generally considered to be superior to unbalanced outputs. This is because balanced outputs are less susceptible to noise. Noise is any unwanted signal that is added to the desired signal. It can be caused by a number of things, such as electrical interference from other devices, or the resistance of the cables that are used to connect the player to the amplifier.
Because balanced outputs use two conductors, they are able to cancel out noise that is picked up by the cables. This is because the noise is picked up equally by both conductors, but it is then subtracted from the signal when the two conductors are combined. This results in a cleaner, clearer sound.
Unbalanced outputs, on the other hand, are only able to transmit one conductor of the signal. This means that any noise that is picked up by the cable is not cancelled out, and it is therefore audible in the sound.
In addition to being less susceptible to noise, balanced outputs also offer a number of other advantages. For example, they can provide a wider dynamic range, which means that they can reproduce a wider range of volumes. This can result in a more realistic and immersive listening experience.
Balanced outputs also offer a higher signal-to-noise ratio. This means that they can reproduce a cleaner, clearer sound with less background noise.
Overall, balanced outputs offer a number of advantages over unbalanced outputs. They are less susceptible to noise, they offer a wider dynamic range, and they have a higher signal-to-noise ratio. If you are looking for the best possible sound quality, then you should choose a SACD player with balanced outputs.
Table of Comparison
| Feature | Balanced Outputs | Unbalanced Outputs |
|---|---|---|
| Noise susceptibility | Less susceptible | More susceptible |
| Dynamic range | Wider | Narrower |
| Signal-to-noise ratio | Higher | Lower |
| Overall sound quality | Better | Worse |
Conclusion
If you are looking for the best possible sound quality from your SACD player, then you should choose a model with balanced outputs. Balanced outputs offer a number of advantages over unbalanced outputs, including lower noise levels, a wider dynamic range, and a higher signal-to-noise ratio. These advantages can result in a more realistic and immersive listening experience.
