EIZZ XLR connector stuck in analog output of DirectStream DAC

The marriage of an EIZZ XLR connector with the corresponding connector on an early DirectStream DAC is an unhappy one. The EIZZ has no external release pall and holds fast with no hope of release to allow the cable to be removed. The EIZZ has a hemispherical pall internal to the connector. I had to drill out the connector to access the spring beneath the pall, then ply the spring below it to release the connector. I will scrupulously avoid the EIZZ XLR connector in future.

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Bother.

Is it supposed to release with just a firm pull?

Ostensibly, yes, one should just be able to pull the EIZZ XLR out. But no.

When Gryphon sent out review samples of its Ethos Transport=DACs, it forgot to put the release buttons in which made cable swaps difficult. Amusing.

Was the fault with the connector or the Direct Stream, or just an unfortunate match up between the two?

I fault the connector. It ought to have an externally accessible release mechanism as do most XLR female plugs.

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