Simple Explanation

A signal method using two opposite signals and a ground to cancel out noise and deliver clean audio.

Concise Technical Definition

A connection system that uses two conductors carrying equal and opposite signals and a third ground or shield. Noise picked up along the cable is canceled through common mode rejection.

Layman-Friendly Analogy

Like two people saying the same thing at the same time but one upside down—when flipped back, the noise is gone, and the message is clear.

Industry Usage Summary

Balanced connections are standard in professional audio gear (like mixers and studio monitors) for long cable runs where noise rejection is critical, using connectors like XLR and TRS.

Engineering Shortcut

Balanced = two signal wires + one ground = noise cancellation.

Full Technical Explanation

A balanced audio system transmits signals using two conductors that carry equal and opposite voltages, plus a separate ground or shield. As the signal travels, any interference picked up along the cable affects both conductors equally. At the receiving end, the phase of one conductor is inverted, and the two signals are summed. Since the noise on both lines is identical, it cancels out, leaving only the desired audio. This technique is known as common mode rejection and is essential for clean audio over long distances.