>eliminates the use of a XLR to RCA adapter barrel
Why would you need to go from XLR to RCA and then to mini jack? Is XLR straight to mini jack not what you require?
>(the extra space needed to accommodate it )and makes for a secure connection because it's out of the way.
If the normal XLR's are too big you could always go with stubbies.
>Then all you need is a stereo male RCA to mini jack cable.
>(smaller footprint, less connections)
That's three connections (2 RCA & 1 mini), same as using a Y cable XLR > mini so same number of connections. Maybe slightly smaller footprint, but with stubby XLR's close to the same.
Plus even though it's probably rare, even a reccessed RCA plug can get pulled out, even just little enough to affect the connection, the xlr's locking prevents that. I've used normal XLR > mini Y cables for over 10 years with no problems and in very cramped space.