This is a review and detailed measurements of the Rotel RB-1070 stereo power amplifier. It was released in early 2000. Can't find the cost then but I see it used for around $400 to $500.
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I have always found Rotels to be most attractively designed power amplifiers. One look at that front panel and you immediately think of muscle and beauty in design. Alas, the extruded aluminum in front which gives it that look, is cosmetic. There are two others internally which do the job of cooling this classic AB design. In use the heastsinks got pretty warm to touch to give it some air to breath.
Not much news in the back other than nice inclusion of trigger input/output:
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Rotel RB-1070 Measurements
The unit warmed up nicely without its performance changing much:
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So let's see what our dashboard of 1 kHz tone does into 4 ohm load:
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The amp is about 2 dB more sensitive than usual which likely accentuates the power supply noise a bit. I was able to reduce 60 Hz hum in one channel but not simultaneously in the other. That is exceeded however by the power supply noise at 120 Hz and multiples. SINAD is likely dominated by distortion to the tune of -80 dB. This lands the RB-1070 slightly above average of all amplifiers tested:
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Despite the power supply noise, dynamic range is very good:
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Frequency response is excellent and spec compliant:
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Crosstalk is good:
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Multitone shows no frequency dependence which is nice:
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There is ample power available into 4 ohm:
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The response is quite odd in that it doesn't slope down. Don't know if that is intentional, accidental or due to power supply caps aging, letting in more ripple as power goes up.
Regardless, lots of power is available:
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Company only specs the power into 8 ohm at 130 watts. It certainly delivers that:
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Putting aside noise floor which is rather high, the units transfer function is one of the best I have ever seen:
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Sadly there is a significant power on pop:
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Conclusions
As one of my favorite (looking) brands, I was very anxious to measure a Rotel amp, hoping it would not let me down. Fortunately it did not. No, the SINAD doesn't break new ground but the rest of the measurements are very good with plenty of power available. It is a great choice for people wanting good amount of power in an attractive package with competent performance.
I am going to recommend (used) Rotel RB-1070.
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