Advanced Taper's Guide | | ----------------------------------------------------------- Signal ------------------------------------------------------------ |
How do I convert balanced to unbalanced signals and vise versa ?
When I record mic in on my machine I get a distorted signal even when my levels never go over 0db, why ?

### How do I convert balanced to unbalanced signals and vise versa ?

There are two types of balanced connections. One is the transformer coupled and the other is active. When converting a transformer coupled I/O to unbalanced I/O pins 1 and 3 must be shorted together and tied to the ground of the 2 conductor connector (i.e. RCA or 1/4"). Pin 2 of the balanced signal should be tied to the center pin or "hot" conductor of the unbalanced connector. When connecting an active balanced output to a unbalanced input pin 2 is tied to the center or hot conductor of the unbalanced signal and pin 1 is tied to the ground conductor. Pin 3 is not used for this method. To connect an unbalanced output to a balanced active input you connect the center or hot conductor of the unbalanced signal to pin 2 of the balanced input. Pin 1 can be tied to pin 3 or left unconnected. Pin 3 must be tied to ground, we like to tie pin 3 to ground as the most trouble free connection scheme.