The only downside to a balanced system like the one described is finding a quality dual-stereo potentiometer. I spent $60 on the TKD which was a simple stereo 10k pot, for a balanced rig you'd need a dual stereo, which would be near twice the price. Of course you could spend less, but then you're getting what you pay for. I started off my monitor control with the idea of staying balanced and going for a stepped attentuator like DACT or Goldpoint, then i realized the part alone would run over $300. Not worth it for me personally. Unbalanced with the TKD stereo pot has been fine with various sources feeding it (console main outs, masterlink, various DACs).