Counterpoint SA 3.1 - can I bypass the balance control?

The balance control in this pre-amp is legendary for being a pesky varmint. Mine is shot, so I took it to an audio electronic repair shop (in business for 50 years supposedly). He told me that a bypass couldn't be done because it would make the pre-amp monaural, and insisted on finding and installing a replacement. This makes no sense to me, anyone know if this is true?

Does bypassing the balance pot in the 3.1 require adding resistors, or should I just have them bypass and hold my breath? 
Thanks! 
Jim in OC CA