2. analog
  3. 179719-128706

Balance control?

I’m running an analog exclusive rig and feel like I’ve been dealing with a channel imbalance for awhile now. I’ve tried trouble shooting this every single way I can think of. The cartridge is set up correctly, checked tubes, etc. My question is: am I obsessing over finding the root cause or should I just cave and use the balance control on my integrated? I feel like it would be ideal to find the cause and not use the balance control. Dose using the balance control introduce anything into the signal? Ugh. 

paulgardner
paulgardner OP
183 posts
 

@fuzztone yeah my main concern is sound degradation.

solypsa's avatar
solypsa
462 posts
 

In some ways I wouldn't sweat a slight use of the balance control, but it also could be something is wrong; so you need to figure out if its the cart, phono or otherwise....

4krowme's avatar
4krowme
542 posts
 

If you already have a balance control in circuit, I say use it. I have the same problem but it is my room and my hearing combined. One slight difference added to another slight difference can matter. In some cases, speaker toe in may help.

 Yah, it's enough to drive us in circles!

slaw's avatar
slaw
20,400 posts
 

I just got a Herron 360. It's balance control is a welcome feature.

fuzztone's avatar
fuzztone
5,496 posts
 

It’s probably the cart. The Puffin balances them out.

Compare temporarily to a CDP etc.

I dealt with it for many years before I got a Puffin. The important thing to remember is that any "degradation" from the balance pot is most likely already there if you use it or not. My pre has no balance pot, all electronic.

 

What’s so hard about trying and listening?

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