Audio Research LS9 volume control is not working..


My less than three years old, minimally used, Audio Research LS9 volume control is not working.

There was a power outrage in my area but I thought my Monster-Power HTS 3600 Power surge Protector would have prevent any damage. I guess not.
(http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/395927-REG/Monster_Power_109096_HTS_3600_Power_Strip.html#specifications)

Pre amp volume control is not working after the power surge occured my area. When I power up, the sound volume level jumps in the middle range even with control knob in the minium level position.

I currently hooked to Rotel pre-amp without balanced mode.
Audio Rsearsch D400 solide state power amp is ok with Dynaudio Confidence2 speakers.

I tested my Audio Research LS9 pre amp to my friend's house with Rotel power amp and B&W 803 speakers.
Same thing. The volume level control knob doesn't work but the sound level jumps into the mid range.

Is this a common failure of Audio Research LS9 volume control? Anyone has a similar trouble?

Any recommand for repair services in NY/NJ metroplitan area?

kh500
Thanks, I saw your reply back in 2009 but was also interested
if Kh500 ever got his fixed. However, I believe your right and will use this information to get my unit repaired. I haven't had any luck reaching AR so will need to go elsewhere.
Thanks
Mitch this problem is usually caused by a chip or chips that control the volume.
Hello, I know this is from 2009 but where you able to get this problem fixed. If so, was it the chip as the one reply back suggested? I am having the same problem and you note was the only information I could find.
Thanks Mitch
You know what I misspoke. I was thinking you had an SP-9. Does the LS-9 have a digital volume control?? If it does it is possible that the chip controlling the volume has been damaged and will need to be replace..My bad.
Well that is pretty odd. Not a common failure at all. The volume control in that unit is a 100 k ohm blue alps control. They can get noisy but I have not heard of the wiper in the control loosing contact with the resistive element. The preamp should be looked at and voltages checked. I assume this problem is occurring on both channels? Unfortunately, I'm on the west coast.