[santacore]

I'm interested in building a selector switch so that I can split the balanced output of my DAC to 2 different destinations(1 power amp and 1 headphone amp). Ideally only a switch would be in the path as to not change the impedance. Any recommendations for a DIY solution that keeps the signal as pure as possible?

Thanks!

[Phil A]

Don't know about DIY but broadcast supply houses like Markertek have items such as - http://www.markertek.com/Audio-Equipment/Audio-Switchers/Sescom/SES-XLR-AB.xhtml

[santacore]

Good call Phil, thanks! I forgot to check Markertek.

[Quiet Earth]

You should be able to use the balanced outputs and single ended outputs of your DAC at the same time. I did that with my DAC for a while, using a headphone amp's balanced inputs and a preamp's single ended inputs, and it worked fine. Did you try a balanced cable to your amp, and single ended cable to your headphone amp yet? Just curious.....


By the way, that particular switch from Markertek is for two sources and one destination. Two females XLRs in and one male XLR out. Make sure you get one with the right connectors.

[Phil A]

The Markertek swith says input or output on the single XLR.  I used to run both single ended and balanced from a DAC as well.  If one wanted, there is always an RCA to XLR adapter but I don't see the point of that.

[Quiet Earth]

Yes, the switch will work in either direction. You are correct. 

But he needs one with one female XLR in, and two male XLR outs. (I think.)

[Russtafarian]

Do you want a splitter or a switch?

I just built a 3 input to 1 output stereo XLR switch for a friend.  He uses it in a very resolving EAR/Marten system and says he can't hear a difference between using the switchbox or connecting directly.

I used a 4 pole 3 position rotary switch, Neutric panel mount XLRs and wire from Canare starquad studio cable.  It was only 48 connections to strip, tin, trim, solder and heat shrink. 

Russ