I personally always have run XLR>RCA between my MP-2 and SBM-1 (mine is a stock SBM-1 FWIW) and have never had a clipping problem. I prefer the secure attachment of the XLRs over the mini plug and I have better quality XLR>RCA cables then my mini>RCA options. I usually run my MP-2 around 9:00-10:00 o'clock and depending on the show, my SBM-1 is usually in the 4-6 range. Times that I have used the mini out on the MP-2, I have found the signal too low even with the SBM cranked up.