Rotel RA-02 or Audio Refinement Complete ?

I've owned an Audio Refinement Complete and Rotel RA-1060 integrated amp. The Audio Refinement amp had a real classy feel to it while the Rotel seemed very utilitarian. As far as sound goes, the Audio Refinement is one of the few components I regretted selling.

I haven't heard the Rotel, but can vouch for the Audio Refinement, as I've owned it four times, and still regret selling it..

Hello, I just searched the 2 amp in and found out that the Rotel was made in 2002, whereas the ARC in 1999, does it matter? or the technology is greater in the Rotel because it is most recently betwwen the two?

thanks, have a nice day !

Age isn't an issue. The usual marketing hype aside, nobody's done anything truly "new" in solid state amplifier design in a long, long time.

But my earlier advice stands. The Rotel, plus $150 in new CDs, will give you more enjoyment in the long run.

I have to disagree with Pabelson on this one. Given my experience with Rotel (albeit, not that particualar model) I would choose the audio refinement even though it's older. I do agree that age doesn't play a role. In my opinion, the audio refinement will give more enjoyment, and have a better resale in the long run should you choose to upgrade.

Don't take our opinions though. listen and see which you like best if possible. Also, which speakers you are using will play a role. Rotel is a good match with B&W, but B&W is an even better match with the audio refinement.