Topic: Connecting XLR cables for extra length

[skotdee]

Is there any loss of signal strength, quality, etc from connecting two sets of XLR cables together for an extra long run? Hope that makes sense...

[ghellquist]

Generally no problem. I do it all the time. Given that your cables are decent quality ( nothing esoteric needed ) .

You should of course only use long cables for balanced runs. All phantom powered mics and almost all modern dynamic mics run balanced. Specialties like extra small condensor mics ( stander DPA 406x ) start out as unbalanced at the mic end and might not like long cable runs.

To put things into perspective, Neumann advises agains using cables longer than 300m ( about 900 feet ) with their phantom powered mics. I generally keep cables below 100 meter to be on the safe side.

// Gunnar

[theslygoose]

Is there any loss of signal strength, quality, etc from connecting two sets of XLR cables together for an extra long run? Hope that makes sense...

As long as your run isn't extremely long, like the post states above.  One thing you have to be weary about though is the contacts on your connectors.  Sometimes if the contacts are worn or corroded it adds unwanted resistance to the connection.
Take for instance A/V companies who have their cables out in all sorts of weather conditions all the time.  Extensions can be a quick fix in a complex setup.   

[skotdee]

Thank guys. I only added a 10' set to my existing 15 footers for 25' total. Tried it out last week and worked great. Good to know.