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Channel Imbalance at low volumes

Hi guys!

I got a sweet sounding NAD 7175PE the other day! It sounds rad at high volumes, however, at low volumes a significant channel imbalance appears. The left channel becomes MUCH dimmer than the right. The problem exists while using either the A or B terminals, but it also flips sides if I swap the left and right speakers, so it's not the speakers or speaker wires. Interestingly, the "A+B" speaker selection produces no sound for some reason. Not sure if that gives any clue as to the cause. Anyone know what's wrong? Thanks!
leemaze
erik_squires
15,959 posts
 
The most obvious things to clean/replace are the volume and balance pots, but don't forget any speaker switches or relays.

Over time they get corroded and can act like little diodes. I had this happen with a Yammaha P2050. Replaced with new and much better relays, and added sockets for next time, problem solved.
stringreen's avatar
stringreen
6,387 posts
 
I agree with the Deoxit suggestion....also spray some in the volume/balance control (in the case)
leemaze OP
329 posts
 
There is no crackling whatsoever.  You still think cleaning is worth a try?
arh
366 posts
 
Everybody posting here is correct. The highest probability is the volume pot. I would clean it first and if that doesn't work replace it. If that doesn't work then you need to take it to a good technition
Alan
psag
518 posts
 
You may want to get an audiogram, to rule out a hearing imbalance. Recruitment occurs at higher volume levels.
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