Amp questions

[ECLIPSEONYA]

SO can someone explain to me the difference between balanced and unbalanced inputs, the advatages and disadvantages of each. Also would like to know with the Preamp does it need to have balanced outs if the amp has balanced inputs? New to the pre pro thing and want to get it right.

[bandphan]

and fwiw just because gear has xlr outs called balanced outputs does not mean the unit itself is fully balanced