Template:Why Use a -20 dB Pad

Why use a -20 dBu Pad?

The XLR connects to a balanced low impedance input stage with a lot of gain. The 1/4" input is unbalanced, has about 20 dB less overall gain but a very high input impedance. <ref> Hilmar-at-Bose talks about Channels 1 and 2</ref><references />