I own an older rotel preamp rtc-970 and Dolby Digital decoder rotel rda-975 as well as the Symphonies and I can tell you I am sometimes tempted to buy two more of the Symphonies to listen to movies on and throw away the rotel rtc-970. I use the Marantz MA500's for amps(x5) which are also a great deal if you aren't going totally analog and like watching movies. All point to point. Only downside I have noticed: the clicks inbetween CD/AV/AUX1/AUX2 have a little static. Low gain so bablancing for AV output means turning it up at least to 12:00. You can almost see these idiosynchrosys as quaint at the amp's price. Never interferes with output - never unsatisfied even watching big action films, not to mention breathes some life in - I was sold after flipping back and forth while watchign a DVD of The Shield - Chickliss' growl had real *human* abrasive depth that it lacked on the rotel. Build is VERY solid. Probably worth replacing the power cord as well with something better. The guy who makes them, while he barely speaks English is really great, and double boxes everything. He also includes shipping in the price. After burn in you will not believe how airy and fresh, how lifelike everything sounds. I like this preamp better than Conrad Johnson/Jolida. Also Manley if only for price. It is similar to a preamp Cary makes, but which I haven't heard. There are two line-outs on the back if you bi-wire. Another perk. I really can't recommend this preamp enough - you wouldn't feel ripped off even if you paid $2000. for it - at $400. it's unstoppable.
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- 36 posts total
- 36 posts total