Rotel A12 MKII silver

Name: A12 MKII silver
Brand: Rotel
SKU: 0672563773419

Finish : Silver

$1,387 €1,199

Available for $1,145 (€990) second-hand

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Delivery → United States in 5 days (from €41.90)

Fast delivery: in 4 days

Advice

Warranty 5 years, Parts and labour

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Specifications and features

Presentation of the Rotel A12 MKII Stereo Integrated Amplifier

The Rotel A12 MKII stereo integrated amplifier combines exceptional audio performance, extensive connectivity, and elegant design. As the successor to the acclaimed A12, this MKII version boasts numerous technical improvements for an even more immersive and realistic listening experience.

An Optimized Power Core

At the heart of the A12 MKII is an analog amplification stage capable of delivering 2x 60 W into 8 ohms, with a total harmonic distortion rate of less than 0.03%. Rotel has paid particular attention to the power supply design, using a custom toroidal transformer and oversized filter capacitors. This configuration ensures a substantial power reserve to handle the most demanding musical passages while maintaining an excellent damping factor of 220 for optimal speaker control.

The power stages use renowned Sanken transistors, mounted in a double push-pull configuration. This uncommon topology for this type of amplifier allows for very high current capabilities, ensuring dynamics and authority over any type of speaker. The frequency response extends from 10 Hz to 100 kHz, providing a linear and transparent sound reproduction from the deepest bass to the highest treble.

A Versatile Digital-to-Analog Converter

To process digital sources, the A12 MKII relies on a state-of-the-art Texas Instruments 32-bit / 384 kHz DAC. Paired with an optimized output stage, it delivers pure and detailed sound with great precision. This DAC can be fed by a multitude of inputs:

2 optical and 2 coaxial inputs compatible with 24-bit / 192 kHz
1 asynchronous USB type B port supporting PCM streams up to 32-bit / 384 kHz
1 apt-X Bluetooth receiver for high-quality wireless connection with smartphones and other portable devices

The USB connection is particularly refined. It operates in class 1.0 by default for maximum compatibility but can be switched to class 2.0 to support high resolutions. A dedicated USB driver is available for Windows systems.

Comprehensive Connectivity

On the analog side, the A12 MKII is not lacking with no fewer than 5 line inputs, including an MM phono input with an excellent dedicated preamplifier. A 3.5 mm mini-jack input on the front allows easy connection of a portable player. There is also a pre-out output, a configurable “main-in” loop for each input, and two pairs of speaker terminals that can operate independently or simultaneously.

The front panel also includes a headphone output on a 3.5 mm mini-jack, with a dedicated amplifier that is precise and musically very convincing. Its operation does not interrupt the speakers.

Finally, the A12 MKII is equipped with a range of connections to facilitate integration into a home automation system: infrared input, RS232 and Rotel Link ports, 12V trigger outputs.

Faithful and Immersive Sound

When listening, the A12 MKII impresses with its ability to reproduce the slightest details and nuances of a recording while delivering great energy when the music demands it. The reproduction is very homogeneous and linear across the entire spectrum. The timbres are realistic, the soundstage is wide and deep with remarkable layering of the planes.

The bass register stands out for its density and responsiveness, with a foundation that seems to go very deep without ever losing definition. The midrange is highly neutral, allowing the personality of different sources to shine through. The treble is delicately airy and resolved, without sibilance or harshness.

Even at sustained levels, the A12 MKII maintains its poise and elegance, demonstrating the excellent synergy between the amplification stages and the power supply. It is capable of pairing with a wide range of speakers, from compact to the most imposing floor-standing models.

Can the A12 MKII be used to listen to music from a computer?

Yes, the A12 MKII features an asynchronous USB type B input that can receive PCM audio streams up to 32 bits / 384 kHz from a computer. It operates in USB 1.0 class by default but can be switched to class 2.0 via the setup menu to support very high resolutions. A dedicated USB driver is available on the Rotel website for Windows systems.

Can the A12 MKII drive two pairs of speakers simultaneously?

The amplifier is equipped with two pairs of speaker terminals that can operate independently or simultaneously. Therefore, it is possible to connect two pairs of speakers and use them together. However, to get the best out of the A12 MKII, it is preferable to use only one pair of speakers at a time, as using four speakers simultaneously puts more demand on the power supply.

What are the advantages of apt-X Bluetooth over classic Bluetooth?

Apt-X Bluetooth is an audio codec that allows wireless music transmission in “near CD” quality, with a bitrate of up to 352 kbps. Unlike classic Bluetooth, which heavily compresses the signal, apt-X offers an excellent compromise between sound quality and range. With a compatible transmitting device (smartphone, tablet, computer), the Bluetooth connection of the A12 MKII delivers a much more faithful and detailed sound.

Is the A12 MKII compatible with a turntable?

Yes, the A12 MKII includes a high-quality MM (Moving Magnet) phono preamplifier. Simply connect a turntable equipped with an MM cartridge to the dedicated phono input to enjoy your vinyl records. The phono preamp has been carefully designed to deliver a high-quality signal with an excellent signal-to-noise ratio of 90 dB.

What are the differences between the A12 MKII and the original A12 model?

The MKII version of the A12 benefits from numerous improvements made by Rotel engineers. These include the use of a new, more efficient Texas Instruments 32-bit DAC, optimizations in the power supply (transformer, capacitors), higher quality components in the signal path, and more advanced isolation and damping techniques. As a result, the A12 MKII gains in precision, transparency, and musicality compared to its predecessor, while retaining Rotel’s distinctive musical philosophy.

What speakers would you recommend pairing with the A12 MKII?

With its power of 2x60W into 8 ohms, low distortion rate, and excellent damping factor, the A12 MKII is well-equipped to drive a wide range of speakers. It pairs particularly well with mid-range bookshelf or floor-standing models, with a sensitivity around 90 dB and an impedance not dropping below 4 ohms.

Documentation

Technical data sheet
French User manual
French

Technical Specifications

Audio Performance

Output Power: 120 W / channel (4 Ω), 60 W / channel (8 Ω)
Class AB
High-end Texas Instruments 32-bit / 384 kHz converter
Roon Tested certified

Analog Section

Total Harmonic Distortion: < 0.018%
Intermodulation Distortion (60 Hz: 7 kHz, 4:1): < 0.03%
Damping Factor (20 Hz - 20 kHz, 8 Ω): 220

Frequency Response

Phono Input: 20 Hz - 20 kHz (0 ± 0.5 dB)
Line Inputs: 10 Hz - 100 kHz (0 ± 0.5 dB)

Sensitivity / Input Impedance

Phono Input (Moving Magnet - MM): 3.4 mV / 47 kΩ
Line Inputs (RCA connectors): 230 mV / 24 kΩ

Overload Threshold

Phono Input (Moving Magnet - MM): 50 mV
Line Inputs: 4 V

Other Analog Features

Preamp Output / Impedance: 1.2 V / 470 Ω
Tone Control - Bass / Treble: ± 10 dB at 100 Hz / 10 kHz
Signal-to-Noise Ratio (IHF “A” weighted):
- Phono Input (Moving Magnet - MM): 90 dB
- Line Inputs: 100 dB