Originally Posted By: BarryCade
The XMC1 looks like it has a pair of stereo balanced inputs, which are supposed to be sweet, right?
I still listen to good old 2 channel stereo a lot. CD & high res files.

The 978 has no balanced inputs
How much of a disadvantage is this?
Is HDMI as good, better, worse then balanced for 2 channel stereo?

Thought it would be nice to take advantage of the Oppo's balanced outputs.


Welcome Barry

Firstly, we don't know exactly what the finished model of the 978 will turn out to be. I myself am looking to get an Oppo 95 and running it 7.1 analog but that unit has only regular connectors for analog output. I do own an Outlaw 7500 multichannel amp with balanced connectors and plan to take advantage of my amp with that connection but that is only with the 978's balanced preouts to the 7500's balanced inputs.

I do not think that the balanced stereo 2 channel outputs of the Oppo will have any noticable sound quality over the rca outputs but I could be wrong. A balance output from Oppo to a two channel balanced input on the pre/pro still would be the ideal connection.
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