Straightforward powered speaker mono/stereo/[un]balanced input compatibility question

[Jon Silberman]

I'm looking at a powered speaker where the manual says, "Use this 1/4" [female] stereo jack to connect a signal source that has 1/4" [male] output."

In the Installation section of the manual, it says, "Both audio inputs [i.e., the 1/4" and XLR inputs] are fully balanced. To maximize interference compensation, try to establish balanced connections to other equipment, whenever possible."

Right below that it adds, "For connection of balanced and unbalanced plugs, ring and sleeve have to bridged at the stereo plug."

Can someone translate this into plain English for me? Specifically, if I plug a straight guitar cable from my mixer's monitor out (mono line level) into the powered speaker, will it work safely and correctly?

Thanks.

[drfrankencopter]

Yes, it will work with a regular 1/4" TS guitar cable.

The manual is trying to tell you that you shouldn't leave the 'ring' connection floating. By using a regular guitar cable you end up shorting the ring and sleeve together, so no problems. It's not a balanced connection, but should be fine with a reasonably short cable length.

Cheers

Kris

[Jon Silberman]

Exactly what I was looking for by way of "translation." Thank you very much for your guidance. :)