rca vs xlr connection

By coincidence, I had just been reading part of an instruction manual before seeing your post.  It says:-

Preference should be given to the XLR connectors since they may provide better noise rejection and signal integrity 

That is probably as good as any explanation.  The balanced connections were originally for studios where they had to tolerate being connected and disconnected a lot (so are stronger) and often run over long distances (think stage to mixing desk).  Neither applies at home, but it's usually recommended to use it when you have the choice - as I do from CD to my amp.  Bear in mind the cables can be pretty costly so choose carefully, preferably on sale or return.

I've no idea if you will hear something, and if you do whether you will prefer it.  Those who believe in expectation bias will expect it to sound much better because you think it will!  Do let us know...  

I like balanced XLR connections as they seem to be less cable fussy and you can unplug and replug equipment without having to turn your amplification off. A pair of XLR leads will only cost you £5. You might as well try them.

Thanks for your replies!

Harry

The benefits for XLR over RCA are a more secure connection and rejection of electrical interferance due to close proximity of other current carrying cables.

These only apply though, if both ends of your equipment are balanced.

Sound quality is otherwise unaffected.

XLR/balanced connections come into their own in an electrically noisy environment and for runs in excess of 5m.

Go to somewhere like www.studiospares.com and get some with Neutrik connectors, and you won't go far wrong, for very little money.

Sound quality of XLR is subjective. One thing you will notice is XLR sounds louder than RCA. I use it between my DAC and amp and also from CDT to DAC with excellent result. But it may not be for everyone.