From inSync reader "Jim":

"My question is one about synth outputs. While mixers and consoles give complete specs on inputs and outputs, none of the synth manufactures say anything about whether the outputs are balanced or not. No mention of -10 or +4 or anything at all except "just plug it in"... a lot of mixers have some type of balanced line inputs and to go into these inputs with the standard ring, tip cable seems like underkill. Is there a better way to wire into a balanced line input, coming from a synth, that will be less prone to noise? I'm not sure whether the output of my synths are unbalanced or not! I've never seen anyone ask these questions. Am I alone in this wonderment?"

Thanks for the questions Jim, and no, you are not alone in your wonderment!

Most synthesizers and samplers have unbalanced outputs. There are a very few exceptions, but probably 98% of the time you are safe in assuming -10 unbalanced outs. Our suggestion is to follow the normal rules for using unbalanced connections: Use high quality cables for the shortest runs possible, and minimize interaction of your audio cables with power lines and other RF sources.

The other solution is to use a direct box or line transformer to convert the signal to balanced (several manufacturers make good ones). You'll still be coming out of the keyboard at -10 unbalanced, but you can use a very short unbalanced cable into the transformer to minimize negative effects.