Rotel Amps

[janmike]

Hi Folks,

I am getting close to making the plunge again. I am adding a 2Ch amp to my system to help improve the stereo side. Here are the 2 amps I am looking at:

Rotel RB-990
Rotel RB-1080

Both deliver 200wpc and am wondering about the main differences. It appears that the 990 does not have a removable power cord and the 1080 does. I would like to add one of Franks's power cords. As well, the 1080 has balanced/unbalanced inputs which I do not fully understand. I will be adding the amp to the following existing equipment:

Front - RTi100's
Yamaha RX-V1500
Marantz SE67 cpd

My intention is to help improve the sound quality for my 2 channel stereo. Any feedback would be appreciated. Thanks Again.

[unc2701]

Balanced outputs are handy if you have to put the power amp a good distance from the pre- they are good at rejecting EMI & RF interference. However, your yamaha doesn't have balanced outs, and even adding an adapter won't make them balanced. My vote would be for the 990. It's a more reasonable cost for your system and won't depreciate in value as rapidly as a newer 1080

[pmckeealaska]

I would recommend the 1080, but only because I have it, and I dont know much about the other model. My 1080 can really crank up the volume when you want it to, but it is also good at revealing details at more listenable levels.

[janmike]

It is clarity that I am looking for instead of volume. As well, I want something that will accommodate other (better) speakers down the road. I wonder if spending double the money for the 1080 is worth it?
Thanks.

[hoosier21]

Originally posted by janmike
I wonder if spending double the money for the 1080 is worth it?
Thanks.

nope, save the monsy and get a good used one, that's my 2 cents

[cfrizz]

Since they both put out 200 watts, I would say go for the 990. Unless you know for sure down the line you are going to use the balanceed imputs, I don't think it would be worth it to get the 1080.

[2+2]

Other features that 1080 has is the trigger power on, and the newer 1080s have two pairs of speaker posts so that you can bi-wire....the 1080 also comes in that good looking silver middle color scheme as well....If you do get a 1080 used, make sure you get one with warranty as some have been having fuse issues....mine has been fine....

[phuz]

Whatever you get, get used. Not to imply the 1080 isn't worth it's retail, but you if you can save some dough then save it.

I think there is a difference in the power supply between the two also. Email Rotel, and they'll send you all of the details on the differences, probably within 24 hours.

I love my 990 :)

[janmike]

Does the 990 have a removable pwr cord? I am looking at used for both units. The 990 is practically brand new.

[mantis]

Ther both great sounding amps. the 1080 however is a better revamped version. I would go with the 1080. I'm also buying a 1080 for my front channels. I'm getting the RMB1095 for my center and rears.

Dan

O and the silver is way to cool

[janmike]

Dan,
If you are looking for sliver & used, there is one FS on the Canuck Audio Mart Web Site. I am looking for black.

Michael

[janmike]

I just purchased a used (6 months old) Rotel RB-1080 at a great price (comparable to the 990 & 991). The deal was from Winnipeg, so I will not be hit with duty. Now, I'll purchase 2 power cords amp & AVR) & IC's from Frank and we are good to go. Thanks for all the advice folks. Darn I like this audio thing!

[cfrizz]

Awesome equipment at a great price! Enjoy it & let us know how you like it.

[janmike]

I received the Rotel Amp the other day and the new cables from Signal today. Frank shipped them out on Friday from NY and they arrived in Yellowknife today. Talk about service. I am tempted to connect it all at once, turn it on and enjoy, but I would like to do some evaluation of the different items 1 at a time. The review could take some time.


RECENT ACQUISITIONS:

A) 1 - 4 ft. SC D/V Power cord - Yamaha RX-V1500
B) 1 - 4 ft. SC Magic Power - Rotel RB-1080
C) 2 pair - 3 ft. SC Analog Twos with Bullet plugs (Rotel 1080 to
Yamaha 1500 & Marantz SE67 to Yamaha 1500)
D) 1 - Rotel RB-1080 Amp

e) Purchased a brand new pair of RTi6 yesterday for next to nothing. My RTi38's are slightly damaged (corners) from a UPS shipment last year and had major problems with a claim. Actually, no luck at all! I just cannot stand damaged merchandise, so they should fit in nice. At this rate, I can see LSi's coming into the picture next year.

[millenniumrx2]

does the yamaha work well with the rotel

[janmike]

Works great. I will probably purchase a 5 CH down the road.

[beardog03]

congrats..!

enjoy....!!