Ballista Balanced Adapter
Best custom adapter for audiophiles connecting balanced headphones to single-ended gear.
The Ballista Balanced Adapter is designed to convert a balanced headphone connection to a single-ended output, making it compatible with single-ended headphone amplifiers. It offers extensive customization options for both the balanced side and the unbalanced side terminations, including various connector types like 4 Pin XLR, 4.4mm Pentaconn, 2.5mm TRRS, 6.3mm (1/4"), and 3.5mm (1/8"). The cable itself features a flexible quad of wires, each containing seven strands of 99.99997% pure Ohno Continuous Cast (UP-OCC) copper wire. These strands alternate between pure copper and silver-clad copper to deliver optimal sound detail and neutrality. The wire is custom-made for Zynsonix Audio. Customers can also select sleeving options, including sleeveless, Red/Black/White VB Sleeving, Non-Microphonic Black Nylon, or Techflex Blue "Denim".
$119.00
Owner Satisfaction
4.7
/ 5
Category Rank
99
/ 2556
#99 in Audio & Video Cable Adapters & Couplers
Price vs Category Average
+53%
Above average
Wire Material
99.99997
/ % pure UP-OCC copper wire with alternating silver clad copper strands
Who it's for
- Listeners looking to bridge legacy equipment with modern balanced gear
- Audiophiles prioritizing signal purity and minimal noise interference
- Frequent travelers needing gear built for constant daily use
Who should skip it
- Purists demanding true differential balanced signal performance
- Budget-conscious buyers seeking simple, cost-effective connection solutions
- Mobile users requiring lightweight, low-profile portable audio setups
Performance breakdown
Signal Integrity
UP-OCC copper construction ensures near-perfect signal transmission for high-end audio.
Build Durability
Robust air-tight isolation and premium sleeving protect against daily wear.
Customization Versatility
Extensive connector options accommodate virtually any headphone and amplifier pairing.
Cable Flexibility
Quad-wire geometry maintains a supple feel without sacrificing internal component safety.
Sonic Neutrality
Hybrid copper and silver-clad strands deliver a balanced, transparent sound signature.
Microphonic Suppression
Specialized nylon sleeving effectively minimizes unwanted noise from cable movement.
Key Specs
Wire Material
99.99997% pure UP-OCC copper wire with alternating silver clad copper strands
Balanced Side Options
4 Pin female, 2 x 3 Pin Female XLR, 4.4mm Pentaconn (male/female), 2.5mm TRRS
Unbalanced Side Options
6.3mm (1/4"), 3.5mm (1/8")
Part Number
BALLADAPT
Features
- Flexible quad of wires
- Seven strands of electrically isolated 99.99997% pure ohno continuous cast large crystal copper wire (UP-OCC)
- Strands alternate between pure copper and silver clad copper
- Each strand is air-tight, isolated using a unique coating
- Optimal strand count for exquisite detail and neutrality
What customers say
The Zynsonix Ballista Adapter is highly regarded for its exceptional build quality and reliability. Customers consistently praise the robust construction and precise machining, noting that the secure connection eliminates frustrating signal dropouts common with lesser alternatives. This adapter performs its core function flawlessly, maintaining perfect signal integrity without introducing sonic artifacts. While the price is premium, users feel the investment is justified by the peace of mind and dependable performance it offers. It is viewed as an essential, set it and forget it component for serious listeners connecting high-end audio gear. The consensus positions the Ballista as a benchmark for high quality audio adapters.
Know before you buy
The Ballista is designed to convert a balanced headphone connection into a single-ended output. This allows you to use your balanced headphones with standard single-ended amplifiers.
The cable uses a mix of pure copper and silver-clad copper strands. This combination is engineered to provide a neutral sound profile while maintaining high levels of detail and clarity.
Yes, Zynsonix offers extensive customization for both the balanced and unbalanced ends. You can select from various common terminations, including 4 Pin XLR, 4.4mm Pentaconn, 2.5mm TRRS, 6.3mm, and 3.5mm jacks.
The Ballista features a flexible quad-wire design, making it much easier to handle than many rigid, high-end cables. It is built to be pliable enough for comfortable desktop or portable use.
Each strand of the UP-OCC copper is individually coated to prevent oxidation and interference. This isolation helps maintain the purity of the signal over time, ensuring the cable's performance remains consistent.
The sleeving options are primarily for aesthetics and physical protection. While the non-microphonic nylon sleeve can help reduce cable noise when moving, the choice between them is largely a matter of personal style.
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$119