Cartridge issues need suggestions


I am having issues with my Transfiguration Proteus - the left channel is cutting out.  It starts with a strong center  image then in a few seconds it drifts to the right intermittently, almost like someone is turning the balance control very fast.  Then it stays far right but I still have faint output in the left channel and sometimes some feedback like the stylus is out of line. 

It is not my tubes in the phono section because I checked that with my backup and it does the same thing.  I have rechecked overhang, cantilever alignment with my protractor, VTF - nothing has changed.  The only thing I haven’t adjusted is anti-skate and haven’t since initial setup.  Azimuth is set on a Basis Vector 4.  I took it off and upon visual inspection the it looks ok - the cantilever is straight but it might have shifted slightly to the left.  I can’t be sure.

Anyone had this issue - I never have...thanks for any feedback!
pops

Showing 8 responses by pops

I believe the headshell wires are good they are captive.  I will check the clips.  
As I suspected it is the Proteus.  I put my Ortofon Jubilee back in and it plays fine.  Anyone know who would work on a Transfiguration?  What a time to go out of biz....only 460 or so hours on this tranny...bummer.
Larry, it does seem likely to be the coils based what I was hearing.

noromance, I took it off and reinstalled and no matter what I did the problem was not solvable.

thanks all for your responses.
Moonglum understood and I think I agreed without thinking it thru....good idea Larry I will contact SoundSmith.  
Agreed solypsa, I did not take inna’s advice seriously.  I definitely plan to have it looked at when I get around to it. 
My vector 4 tonearm cable runs from the clips to the phono preamp.

Where  exactly would I put the soldering iron, on the cartridge pins and why?  Not sure I understand....