The Inputs, the Outputs, and the unique LL2A circuit topology
The I/O circuit topology of the LL2A is unique. Most audio devic-
es have transformers or active circuits to convert a balanced signal
to single-ended signals where they then are internally processed
then converted back to balanced on the output using more trans-
formers or an active circuit. The LL2A is fully differential, so what
you feed it is what comes out, avoiding those input and output
stages of audio degradation. To make it clear, what is fed to the
+
input is processed 100% separately from what is fed to the
-
out-
put throughout the whole LL2A. Most Little Labs products use
that topology ( don’t tell anyone but that’s part of the reason they
sound so good.
This circuit topology allows you to use the LL2A stereo unbal-
anced or mono balanced as you know, but in this configuration,
keep in mind some rules for hooking up apply. You don’t want to
feed a mono balanced signal to the input and then feed a mono
unbalanced input from the LL2A output, for example. Doing this
would be driving the - audio signal into ground and cause overall
weirdness. If you have no interest in running unbalanced stereo,
keep all cabling balanced, and all will be well.
This cabling includes the sidechain insert in mono; there must be
a balanced signal feeding it.
In unbalanced stereo mode to have the side chain work properly,
you need to feed it either balanced mono or TRS wired mono, so
the tip and sleeve are wired with the same signal on the tip and
ring. Label this cable special, it’s a weird one.
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