correct wiring for unbalanced output

[if6was9]

In an N72 thread about cabling for unbalanced output, Tim said:

No problem. Using shielded twisted pair, wire your cable like so:

XLR 1 -> Shield
XLR 2 -> 1/4" Tip
XLR 3 -> 1/4" Shell

My question is - is this the correct wiring for all models of SCA preamp? In particular, is it also OK for the C84 (which does not have a transformer output)? Or do some SCA pre's prefer a different cabling scheme?

[tpryan]

That's the correct wiring for all modules except the C84. To connect the C84 to an unbalanced input, wire like so:

XLR 1 -> Shield -> 1/4" shell
XLR 2 -> + lead -> 1/4" Tip
XLR 3 -> - lead -> NC (No Connection)

[zoff]

In an N72 thread about cabling for unbalanced output, Tim said:

No problem. Using shielded twisted pair, wire your cable like so:

XLR 1 -> Shield
XLR 2 -> 1/4" Tip
XLR 3 -> 1/4" Shell

Does this mean that the shield is only connected at the xlr?

[tpryan]

Does this mean that the shield is only connected at the xlr?

Yes. You can usually tie pin 1 to pin 3 without causing problems, but it isn't necessary and may introduce a path for troublesome ground currents.

Why is everybody so interested in connecting to unbalanced inputs? What are you plugging into?

[if6was9]

Why is everybody so interested in connecting to unbalanced inputs? What are you plugging into?

To bypass the built-in preamps on a Yamaha AW2400, I need to go in through an unbalanced insert. It works great and is a big improvement over the stock pre's. Thanks!

[zoff]

Does this mean that the shield is only connected at the xlr?

Yes. You can usually tie pin 1 to pin 3 without causing problems, but it isn't necessary and may introduce a path for troublesome ground currents.

Why is everybody so interested in connecting to unbalanced inputs? What are you plugging into?

I'M plugging into an M-Audio FW 1814 interface which has -10 unbalanced TS inputs I think I'll need a -15 pad, can I make one by wiring a 150 ohm resistor across pin 2 and 3 and 1, 400 ohm inline with pin 2 and another 400 ohm on pin 3?

Thanks.