Could also be a loose pin in the socket. I had that same problem in an Octave V70se and it was loose pins in one socket
Using contact cleaner in tube sockets
My ARC VT100mkii which I just got, has a crackling from one of the channels. The tubes are new. When I first installed the tubes, it was fine. The following morning, I powered it on, and the crackling started. I swapped tubes with the other side and it was fine for a while. This evening, it started again. Will using contact cleaner damage the sockets? It is quick drying cleaner.