Time to run the isolation drill:
First, Make sure your ground lead from the table (and arm, if applicable) is firmly secured to the ground terminal and that that ground terminal is secured to your mains (most phono sections do this internally). This is likely not an issue for you because ground problems are very distinct, but check anyway since you'll be back there.
Second, switch the ICs right-to-left and see if the problem moves with the change.
Next, change out the IC completely. Any IC known to function properly will do for this test.
Fourth, run the output of your phono stage into "CD," "server," "tape" or "tuner" inputs. It won't hurt anything but will tell you if your preamp has an issue with the "aux" input.
Next, reverse the tonearm leads into the phono stage.
Sixth, switch the cartridge leads r-2-l. Be careful with this; you don't want to affect the alignment.
Last, if your cartridge is MM, make sure the stylus and cantilever assembly are fully seated in the cartridge body.
Those steps should at least get you started on identifying where the problem lies. Good luck & happy listening!
First, Make sure your ground lead from the table (and arm, if applicable) is firmly secured to the ground terminal and that that ground terminal is secured to your mains (most phono sections do this internally). This is likely not an issue for you because ground problems are very distinct, but check anyway since you'll be back there.
Second, switch the ICs right-to-left and see if the problem moves with the change.
Next, change out the IC completely. Any IC known to function properly will do for this test.
Fourth, run the output of your phono stage into "CD," "server," "tape" or "tuner" inputs. It won't hurt anything but will tell you if your preamp has an issue with the "aux" input.
Next, reverse the tonearm leads into the phono stage.
Sixth, switch the cartridge leads r-2-l. Be careful with this; you don't want to affect the alignment.
Last, if your cartridge is MM, make sure the stylus and cantilever assembly are fully seated in the cartridge body.
Those steps should at least get you started on identifying where the problem lies. Good luck & happy listening!