Certified Technology Specialist (CTS) Practice Exam

What is considered the best practice for choosing between unbalanced and balanced audio cables?

1. Use unbalanced for shorter distances

2. Use balanced for all cables

3. Use unbalanced for all cables

4. Use balanced only for professional setups

The correct answer is: Use balanced for all cables

The best practice for choosing between unbalanced and balanced audio cables is to consider the specific application and environment in which the cables will be used. Balanced cables are designed to cancel out electromagnetic interference and noise, making them ideal for longer distances and environments with potential interference, such as live sound setups and studio recordings. They feature two signal conductors that carry the same signal but with opposite polarities, allowing any noise picked up along the way to be effectively canceled out. While it's true that unbalanced cables can be used for shorter distances due to their lower cost and simplicity, they are more susceptible to noise and degradation over long runs. Therefore, relying solely on balanced cables for all connections, particularly in professional audio applications, is generally the best practice as it ensures better signal integrity and audio quality across various setups, regardless of distance. This approach helps to mitigate issues related to interference and ensures a cleaner audio signal.