Balanced Output
Unbalanced vs. Balanced Output
The unbalanced method is the most commo nly used basic method which consists of “left and right
signals + ground line”.
This setup includes a ground line which blocks out external noises from the
outside.
However, since the ground line cannot block out all of the external noises completely, external
noises can be mixed into the signals that are transmitted, which then result in changes to the sound.
The longer the signals travel, the more external noises that will be mixed into the sound which is why it is
used within a short distance of 1 to 2 meters.
Unlike the unbalanced method, the balanced method has an additional cold signal to compliment
the hot signal which reduces the external noises.
Unbalanced method
hot signal
Balanced method
hot signal
cold signal
The balanced method has a few advantages over the unbalanced method.
The first advantage is that the hot signal and the cold signal will remove the external noises received.
The second advantage is increased output due to the 2 transmitted signals.
Noise Detected during
Balanced Output
Noise
hot signal
cold signal
Ground or ground line
Noise Removed
After Detection
Noise
hot signal
cold signal
reversed
Ground or ground line
Noise Removal Complete
signal
synthesis
Ground or ground line
Since the ground line cannot block out 100% of the external noises, noise will appear on both the hot and cold signals.
The alignment of the 2 signals allows the noise to usually appear at similar points where they will eventually be removed as the signals are transmitted.