Hi,
 
I have just purchased the VS-700 set and was wondering if I can use the VS-700R without powered speakers. i.e. can I connect the main outs to an amplifier using XLR to RCA cables ?
 
Gary

Absolutely but you would be best using 2x mono 1/4 to rca and connect the 1/4 in the SUB output. This way your signal will stay unbalanced all the way. 
 
Be careful, cause Windows tend to set the MAIN out as default, so switch that in the Windows audio mixer (near the clock in the lower right side).
 
If you absolutely must use an XLR to rca, make sure the pin 3 (cold) on the XLR jack is soldered to pin 1 (ground). You can do it yourself pretty easily if you have a soldering iron and some experience or know someone who does.

AN XLR or balanced TRS can be sending a high level signal out (+4 dbu) and the RCA connection is meant to be at a level of -10dBV (-8dBu approx) So there is quite a level mis match there.
 
A better option is something like this which does all aspects of a conversion, the impedance/balanced/level conversion all in one:
 
http://artproaudio.com/artcessories/audio_solutions/product/cleanbox_pro/
 
You could also build a passive attenuator into the cable between the XLR/TRS outputs and the RCA input.

I think Dyonight' answer is good.

Thanks. I have decided to go with Dyonight and use 2 x mono 1/4 to RCA from the SUB output

You can use XLR to RCA, but it won't work as well as XLR to TRS or XLR to XLR. It will create noise and a certain type of distortion on peaks.

I think I will eventually get some proper monitors and bypass the Hi-Fi amp altogether. But it is doing the job for the time being. It's all a matter of cashflow

I Have a VS-700C w/VS-700R for sale, 7 Mos old, Perfect condition... $3100 firm. U pay to ship from NH.
richardbcar Yahoo < email me if interested

I already have the VS-700 set, I do not have any Active Monitors.

+4 to -10 = XLR to RCA. It's somewhat like plugging a 1/4 phone jack into a TRS jack. There's a wire missing, a path for bleed off missing. +,-, ground, rather than +,- plus ground on 2 paths. Having a separate bleed off wire as in XLR-TRS keeps certain types of capacitance and resulting build up, out of your audio signal.