question about using an RNC with a Studio Projects VTB-1

[saag paneer]

I just bought a Really Nice Compressor. I want to use it with my Studio Projects VTB-1 mic pre.

The RNC instructions say:
Hooking up the RNC to balanced lines with TRS 1/4" plugs will not work! If the equipment you are connecting the RNC to is balanced, you must first unbalance it and only connect into the RNC with TR 1/4" plugs.

I have three dumb questions about this:
(1) I don't really understand the difference between balanced and unbalanced equipment.
(2) Should I use the compressor as an insert effect on the VTB-1, or should I just put it between the VTB-1 and the recorder?
(3) Do i need special cables? If so, what kind?

Could someone who uses these two devices please tell me the best way to do it? Should I patch the RNC into the Insert jack of the VTB-1? If I do that, do I need a two-headed 1/4" cable or should I just use the input jack on the RNC (which says 'tip=in; ring=out')? Or should I go from the VTB-1's Line Out to the RNC's In jack to the RNC's Out jack and then into my recorder?

I'd be really grateful for very simple instructions. I'd also be grateful if you'd educate me about balanced vs. unbalanced connections, and about anything else that I need education on.

Thanks much.

 

[Mikey C]

I use setup #2 on your list. I use the insert jack on the VTB-1 and use a TRS plug, with two 1/4" plugs in a "Y" configuration into and out of the RNC. I believe you can also use a TRS-TRS cable and connect the RNC using just the single TRS connector (into the RNC "In" jack), but I just didn't have that type of cable laying around at the time.

 

[themidiroom]

Most TRS jacks that I know of allow you to plug the cable in half way. That should give you a hot and a ground which will be an unbalanced signal.

 

[saag paneer]

thanks for your help. the single TRS cable is working fine (plugged in all the way).