2. amps-preamps
  3. 1250220499

Right/Left channel balance issues? Pre-amp



Problem:

Long story short, I have bought a new integrated amp and through a long process of testing (and elimination) I have determined the preamp section is causing a 2 dB difference between the right and left channel. The integrated amp does not have a right and left balance...

This pushes my sound stage to the left and the vocals do not have the focus they should have. The 2 dB is in the mids and highs. The bass was not really measurable.

Question:

Is this common or am I being to picky? Does anyone know what type of balance tolerances are common on pre-amps, integrated amps? I REALLY like the piece but an strongly thinking about returning it. The integrated amp has bout 70 hours on it at this point and uses a single tube in the pre-amp section.

PS. I did not name the brand because I have asked the company this same question and do not want to give them a bad rap prematurely.

james63
musicophile's avatar
musicophile
58 posts
 
I did have the same problem. It took some time to figure out that it was the potentiometer that were unbalanced. I sent it back to seller, he put in a new one and it sings again. It is very frustrating with all the waiting and uncertainty, but it is probably fixable. Do not accept having a new and unbalanced component.
blindjim
3,092 posts
 
Assuming this was never ever an issue prior to getting this new piece, and with it you have a noticeable disparity in the balance of power to each side, I got to throw in with Musicophile.

Send it back. Bummer... drag city... BUT I've yet to exp run in periods wherein the balance between loudspeakers was off and playing it more fixed things. Run in fixes only tonality, extension, and refinement... not balance.

One thing too... turn it on and once warmed up while at the LP... Stand up. Sound different? No? Then turn around & face the other way. sound different now? No? Then it ain't your hearing. Don't laugh. Our ears do change.

Openings to the sides of a room too can cause suck outs and balance issues.

My point being... if it's never been an issue with other gear... it remains it is now... get another, or have it fixed, but don't accept that problem. Might just be the tube but it needs be repaired.
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brauser
525 posts
 
I would definitely be looking for a different preamp. Not only should it match precisely, but it is desirable to have a balance control to compensate for the irregularities found in many if not most recordings. I like to listen in a dead center position if possible. I really value the ability to get that right and it would significantly reduce my enjoyment of the music if I couldn't.
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