[Barry]

I'm trying to use balanced XLR connection between preamp and Stratos. Is Stratos true balance interface?

I have use a multimeter to test the XLR interface.  It is not using a internal XLR-RCA converter. Just want to reconfirm that it is real balance design.

Thanks!

[Eugene2]

As far as I know Klaus does not use true balance operation in his amps.  While there is an XLR receptacle it does not function in a true balanced configuration.  I changed from balanced to all RCA.  I would call Klaus to discuss.

[Barry]

As far as I know Klaus does not use true balance operation in his amps.  While there is an XLR receptacle it does not function in a true balanced configuration.  I changed from balanced to all RCA.  I would call Klaus to discuss.

I turned off the Stratos.  Then test whether the ground pin is connected to any of the 2 signal pins. My XLR -RCA converter worked that way. The result is that they are not.

Also, each channel has 2 internal fuses. It makes me suspect that it is balanced design. Just want to have Klaus confirmation.

I think amp can sound good with balance/unbalanced design. Just want to know the answer which will help me decide the configuration of my system.

[Randy]

Barry,
  It's not true balanced, but use it as if it was.  I use my extreme monos it in an all balanced system with superb results. Allows me to use the far superior balanced circuits of my CDP and preamp if nothing else.

[lazydays]

As far as I know Klaus does not use true balance operation in his amps.  While there is an XLR receptacle it does not function in a true balanced configuration.  I changed from balanced to all RCA.  I would call Klaus to discuss.

I turned off the Stratos.  Then test whether the ground pin is connected to any of the 2 signal pins. My XLR -RCA converter worked that way. The result is that they are not.

Also, each channel has 2 internal fuses. It makes me suspect that it is balanced design. Just want to have Klaus confirmation.

I think amp can sound good with balance/unbalanced design. Just want to know the answer which will help me decide the configuration of my system.

Klaus told me to forget about using the XLR connection right up front, but why he never said. What purpose are they for?
gary

[martinr]

My understanding from what Klaus told me is that the XLR connections are not active on the Mono's...my Candela Pre does not have balanced inputs anyway.

[DMi]

It is really old question but still a good one to ask. I believe the answer is the XLR connections on a Stratos Stereo are not truly balanced inputs. They will let you use a XLR cable on equipment that has professional outputs but they are wired in parallel with the unbalanced inputs. Of course as previously mentioned Klaus is the final word on his products but if my memory is correct and you can use RCA you don't need to outlay for the more expensive XLR cables to get the same results.

Doug

[Barry]

Got response from Klaus:

Is it real balance XLR interface?

"No.  All Symphonic Line amps are single ended.  It is jumped to the RCA."

[jreinhart]

Got response from Klaus:

Is it real balance XLR interface?

"No.  All Symphonic Line amps are single ended.  It is jumped to the RCA."

Klaus is right about the Stratos line being single ended.  However, there is more information that should be known.  The XLR inputs to the Stratos line connect the Hot and Ground pins their respective the RCA connectors which are run to the board.  The Cold pin is left to float.  Grounding the Cold pin would destroy a balanced crossover or preamp upline (per Bryston and Passlabs).