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
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.
Have you tried a new, (different) tube? If the preamp uses just (1) tube, it may have mismatched sections within the tube.
I do not have another tube to try.... I have done A LOT of testing and it is the pre amp for sure but the tube could be the root problem.

It sucks because I really like the piece. I am waiting for a reply from the manufacturer too see what they say. I might just try and exchange it for the same piece at the dealer. I hope it is not a design flaw and I just got a bad apple.