Find the Problem

My analog front end isn’t as developed as my digital end, but I am just curious as to what members here would identify as the source of my issue, as I don’t wish to spend time and resources chasing after it.

  To begin with, the analog source resides in a second system in my basement.  I won’t waste space detailing why.  Speakers are floorstanders with sub.  Silver line Panatellas with a Paradigm sub, specifically.  Amplification is 5.1 AVR by Anthem playing in 2 channel when I play analog.

  Turntable is a newish (2 year old) Technics SL 1200 Direct Drive with an Ortofon 2M Blue moving magnet cartridge.  Phono preamp is a Cambridge Audio that does moving magnet only.

  The problem, which I’ve only recently noticed, is a hardening at extreme peaks, particularly in the treble.  Specifically, flutes and high strings during orchestral climaxes.  Otherwise I am very pleased with the sound.

  This problem isn’t present with my digital sources (Pioneer Universal player, television, even Apple TV playing old compressed iTunes files) .

  I suspect it’s either the cartridge or the preamp.  I realize this is a modest analog setup in comparison to what many have, but hey it can be fun to tweak a modest bit of kit