balanced vs. unbalanced

[jeronimo]

Let's say I have a mixer w/ unbalanced i/o and another piece of gear w/ balanced i/o and they're both connected in both ways ins and outs. Is there any way to transform the unbalanced signal into balanced? If yes, how should it be done and pricewise does it worth to be done in many channels?

[realdynamix]

Is this equipment, (the unbalanced equipment) at +4db level, or -10db level? The Balanced equipment may auto unbalance, by sensing the type of connector (TRS), or 1/4 Phone. If the balanced connections are XLR, then different wireing on the XLR connector end may be required. If the equipment is -10, like an older Tascam board, there is an interface that will handle the conversion of -10 to balanced +4db, for both inputs and outputs, up to 8 channels per unit.
This product is EB TECH level shifter, and can be seen at
www.audiomidi.com
type in ebtech in the search box, also if you are going to work something out on your own, then
www.jensentransformers.com
hope this helps,
--Rick

[jeronimo]

Using the Tascam board example:
My direct outs are unbalanced RCAs and the inputs on my 001 are balanced TRS. Do you think It'll worth the money to convert those direct outs to +4? Since the board has 24ch and I'm using 16ch out. I'll need two of the 8ch units ($440 each here in Brazil). Does it worth? Or should I sell everything and get a new board ?

Unless you REALLY love that board, no way should you spend $880 on conversion. There are a multitude of small boards available in the $1000 range with balanced direct outs - Allen & Heath, Studiomaster, Mackie, etc.

[jeronimo]

Yeah, I knew that...
You know, I don't really love it!!