Convert BC3000 to Balanced Operation

[lpw]

I'm hoping to get some advice on anyone who has converted their BC3 preamp from single-end to balanced XLR connection. What sound differences did you find, if any? Was it worth doing? Gilbert says it takes about 2 weeks to do - I assume this process involves making the preamp into a fully balanced design, and not just adding XLR connectors?

I have a BC3000 mk2 and I recently acquired a Pass Labs x250.5 amp that, based on my reading, is a balanced design and will sound better with XLR cables. My DAC is the Calyx 24/192 which is also a fully balanced design, so i would get balanced components throughout the whole chain if the preamp is a balanced one. Another motivation for me is that using balanced cables might help to quiet down all kinds of low level noise/hum that my single-ended IC's seem to be picking up.

Anyways, any comments and experiences you can share would be greatly appreciated!

[Double D]

the BC3000 mk2 is a pretty fine sounding preamp, having it "converted" to a fully balanced pre-amp (essentially, this will make it close to a now discontinued AG3000, - depending on what power supply you opt for ) will very much change it's nature. You may sacrifice some fluidity, and poise (or the "beauty" as Bob Neill would refer to it) but, you will gain in terms of lowering the noise floor, and extension on both top and bottom.
Some consider balanced units lack in terms of soundstage breadth and depth.. sorry, I don't hear that, if anything, I get the opposite from my BC303 pre. This is something I consider a strong suit in pretty much all the BC pre-amps, is the ability to render a credible soundstage, in both width and depth.
To me, the decision to go fully balanced, really only benefits you, IF you run it from source to amp, and in your case, you will do this. I am familiar with the CALYX Dac, and it does indeed perform better in the balanced realm. So, as long as you aren't planning to do too much with matching other sources that are strictly single ended (RCA outs) then I can really see the reasons for having your unit converted. If on the otherhand you see a day when you'll swap out your amp, or want to use other sources, then it might be a bit of pain.

[lpw]