Do I Need Balanced Cables for a Short Cable Run?

To XLR or not to XLR? 

Balanced cables (XLR) are generally recommended for longer cable runs.  This is done to minimize the potential for noise interference. The longer the cable run, the more ideal an XLR cable becomes. However, for short cable runs, the differences are nominal - the difference in performance between balanced (XLR) and unbalanced (RCA) cables likely won't be significant. For most home setups, you will likely be fine using either cable for your equipment.