I think we can mark this solved!!!
After I ordered the LED pack, I made one last ditch effort to futz with the 9 pin socket. I reflowed the A3, A8, center pin and A3 > A8 connection. I also poked and prodded the two LEDs. One of the LEDs was pushed a bit further into the center hole. And that did it. No channel imbalance or distortion or fuzz.
I will hold onto the new LEDs I ordered just in case. But I have had two days in a row of smooth listening so I think it's safe to say we are out of the woods. I hope my trials and tribulations can help another wayward soul who has a similar issue.
Thanks so much for your help and patience!