LP Recording Distortions?

ok im new to the analog scene and what i got is a technics 1200 TT, shure m44 cart hooked to the phono pre amp of my rotel integrated, ive noticed that when i listen to my lp's they have a pronounced "ssss" sound especially with vocals and cymbals, it kinda sounds strained, so is this normal with vinyl recordings? or do i need to change any of my equipments? any input will do coz its making me crazy!