Unbalanced RCA line out to balanced 1/4'' inputs

[sburrell]

Hi,

Wow, fitting this TASCAM FireOne into my audio system is proving hard work. :( It turns out the only line inputs are 1/4'' balanced (TRS) sockets. I've read the following:

To connect an unbalanced output to a balanced input, simply connect the unbalanced signal to the "Live" side of the balanced input, and connect the Ground side of the output to both the "Return" and "Ground" of the input.
So, what kind of adapter would I require for this—would an RCA female to mono 1/4'' jack adapter suffice? If not, what would I need? And, other than Maplin (which I find to be expensive and low-quality) where could I buy such a thing?:scratch:

But then there's another thing:

Some unbalanced outputs assume they will be connected to a high-impedance input, so if your input is switchable between high-impedance and 600 Ohm, make sure it is set to high-impedance.
I'm intending to connect the line output from a phono stage or a tape deck - are they components likely to be affected by the above?

Many, many thanks in advance.

[Reid Malenfant]

Yes, a phono to 1/4" mono jack plug will do the job perfectly assuming that the Tascam will be happy with this. Most stuff is so i doubt there will be a problem.

I'm not sure that most normal hifi equipment would be happy feeding a 600 ohm load. Some kit is built with output impedances of 10 ohms or less (think loadsa money) & i'm sure this wouldn't mind it in the least.

Average kit probably has an output impedance of a few hundred ohms & this would be loaded quite a bit by a 600 ohm inpunt impedance. The result would be less voltage input to the unit.

[sburrell]

The mono 1/4'' jacks work just fine. Thanks for the advice Mark :)

[Reid Malenfant]

No problem, it's what we're all here for :)

[Mark Grant]

Pleased it worked as expected :)