Audio Device Interconnections: Impedance, Balance, & Level

This is an overview of some things to check out when connecting audio equipment together. A discussion of impedance, the basics of a balanced interconnection, and the categories of signal levels we work with.
For details of how to actually wire balanced and unbalanced gear together, check out Rane's Sound System Interconnection guide here:
www.ranecommer...
(link updated 10/2024)

[@micheler.3439]

The only exhaustive and comprehensive explanation of this on the internet, you're awesome man!

[@psyphon604]

This video was very helpful. There’s still a lot I want to learn about audio signals and interconnects, but this video was a fantastic start! I’m excited to watch the other videos you’ve made. Thank you for the time and effort you’ve put into explaining things. Really nice work!

[@OysterPir8]

This is really helpful. I am TOTALLY new to this and only beginning to understand. My interest is in restoring and using vintage recorders, radios, speakers and microphones.

[@gogiaudios]

Beautiful video. Now that's it's worth in Gold. Unfortunately the masses don't like in-depth knowledge. Cheers.

[@raulplascencia3628]

Thanks a lot. I had been researching on this and this is the best way to understand. Great explanation.

[@stavroshouiris]

I've kinda confused, I've seen others saying that you need to match your impedance or you could risk having reflections in your lines. Maybe they're talking about communication lines?

[@inset09]

Amazing video. Can you help me with a question I have? I have 2 mono outputs in my mixer that are "impedance balanced". May I have problems by making a stereo connection with cable adaptors with these mono outputs and sending it to an headphone? What will be the difference connecting 16 ohm impedance headphone and a 32 ohm headphone?

[@ardaturkol7]

great video, very good explanation. Thank you!

[@grahamh7041]

Thanks - REALLY helpful

[@mPDC-gh8jy]

14:40 I find out often that -20 dBV is also considered another reference level for consumer types of equipment by its manufacturer.

[@koitka2037]

Subbed! Thank you for this video

[@sebastiangutierrez8438]

tthis info is part of th gain staging, correct?

[@AnotherAnon]

rane110 is no longer available :/

[@DragisaBoca]

Amazing video sir, thank you SO much... This is priceless to me since I am self taught.... :)

[@CerealKiller0016]

this is amazing

[@Ma8tthew]

Thanks!!!!

[@HazeAnderson]

Giddings FTW! :D

[@22jmike]

Treasure.

[@enyedirichardmr1310]

x24

[@enyedirichardmr1310]

mono channels