Rotel RB1582 MKII black

Stereo Power Amplifier: Rotel RB1582 MKII

The Rotel RB-1582 MKII is a 2-channel power amplifier designed to drive a wide variety of loudspeakers. Operating in class AB, it offers a balance between energy efficiency and sound quality. This configuration produces sound that is both warm and precise, meeting the expectations of music enthusiasts.

Power and Performance

The RB1582 MKII delivers an impressive power output of 2 x 200 W into 8 Ω (20 Hz - 20 kHz, with less than 0.03% total harmonic distortion). This substantial power reserve allows it to effortlessly drive even the most demanding speakers, ensuring dynamic and uncompressed sound reproduction, even at high listening levels.

Design and Quality Components

At the heart of the RB1582 MKII is its oversized toroidal transformer, manufactured in-house by Rotel. This crucial component ensures a stable and generous power supply, capable of instantly responding to the most demanding current requirements. The transformer is paired with an impressive 60,000 µF storage capacity, provided by British-made “slit foil” capacitors.

These “slit foil” capacitors are distinguished by their ability to charge and discharge extremely quickly. This feature guarantees the integrity of the audio signal, even during particularly dynamic musical passages such as orchestral crescendos or bass drum impacts.

Optimized Internal Architecture

The RB1582 MKII benefits from a dual mono design beyond the toroidal transformer. This approach ensures optimal separation of the left and right channels, contributing to a precise and stable stereo image. All grounds converge in a star pattern on a copper plate, a technique that optimizes the signal-to-noise ratio.

The output stages use discrete components, with 10 high-current bipolar transistors per channel. This configuration ensures excellent linearity and the ability to deliver high currents, essential for effectively controlling speaker movement.

Connectivity and Flexibility

The RB1582 MKII offers versatile connectivity to easily integrate into different audio setups. It features balanced XLR and unbalanced RCA inputs, allowing optimal connection with a wide range of preamplifiers. A selector allows you to choose between these two types of inputs.

The amplifier is also equipped with a 12V trigger input and output, facilitating its integration into home automation systems or complex home theater installations.

Design and Construction

With dimensions of 431 x 144 x 406 mm (W x H x D) and a weight of 18.5 kg, the RB1582 MKII makes a statement. Its robust chassis and 3U height brushed aluminum front panel give it an elegant and professional aesthetic. The silver finish harmoniously fits into most interiors.

Acoustic Performance

The RB1582 MKII stands out for its sound neutrality and its ability to faithfully reproduce the subtlest nuances of music. Its wide frequency range of 15 Hz to 100 kHz (+0.5 dB, -3 dB) ensures precise reproduction of the entire audible spectrum and beyond.

The high damping factor of 1000 (under 8 ohms) demonstrates the amplifier’s excellent ability to control speaker movement, especially large-diameter woofers. This feature results in firm and articulate bass frequency reproduction.

Usage and Tips

To get the best out of the RB1582 MKII, it is recommended to pair it with a preamplifier of equivalent quality, such as the Rotel RC-1590. The amplifier requires a break-in period to reach its optimal performance, with a noticeable improvement in sound quality after several dozen hours of use.

It is advisable to let the amplifier warm up for about 30 minutes before critical listening to achieve the best performance. Although powerful, the RB1582 MKII remains energy-efficient with a maximum power consumption of 550 watts.

• Stereo amplifier 2 × 200 W
• Class AB amplifier
• High-quality British-made “slit-foil” capacitors
• Continuous output power: 200 W/channel at 8 Ω

Measurements

• Total harmonic distortion: < 0.03%
• Intermodulation distortion (60 Hz: 7 kHz, 4:1): < 0.03%
• Frequency response (+ 0.5, – 3 dB): 10 Hz - 100 kHz
• Damping factor (20 – 20,000 Hz, 8 Ω): 800
• Speaker impedance (normal mode): 4 Ω minimum
• Signal-to-noise ratio (IHF A-weighted): 116 dB
• Input impedance/sensitivity:
  • Unbalanced: 12 kΩ / 1.9 V
  • Balanced: 100 kΩ / 3.8 V

General

• Dimensions (W × H × D): 431 × 144 × 407 mm
• Front panel height: 3U / 132.6 mm
• Power supply: 230 V, 50 Hz
• Power consumption: 550 W
• Standby consumption: 0.5 W
• Net weight: 17.6 kg
• BTU (4 Ω, 1/8 of rated power): 1104 BTU/h