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Collaboration, Voice & AV · Foundational

Unbalanced Audio

Audio transmission using one signal conductor and a shield that also serves as the return, making it susceptible to noise.

Definition

Unbalanced connections such as RCA and TS (1/4 inch tip-sleeve) and 3.5 mm consumer jacks are fine for short runs but pick up hum and interference over distance. Converting to balanced with a direct box or balun allows long runs. Unbalanced consumer gear typically operates at -10 dBV.

Example

A laptop's 3.5 mm output connects through a DI box to a balanced DSP input 30 m away.

Exam tip

Keep unbalanced runs short; use DI boxes or balancing transformers for long runs.

Don't confuse it with

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