Rotel RB-1552 Amplifier review
When we talk about the premium systems, we usually mean a set of independent components. The separate amplifier and source may also be divided into two parts. In fact, the single-block amplifiers are called integral not for nothing - each of them has two hidden independent devices: the preamplifier with the switching center and the power amplifier. Everyone who wants to get the real "adult" Hi-Fi-sound buys these components separately, in particular - the Rotel RB-1552 Power Amplifier. It seems that there is nothing to tell about such a simple device which has one "On/Off" button. However, it's not all that simple and the control is not limited only with the single button.
The RB-1552 model is created due to the reducing the capacity of the RB-1582 and their capabilities are identical in everything except the power characteristics. The switch set is quite simple - the unbalanced inputs on the RCA connectors and two pairs of binding posts. We would like to speak more about them. Firstly, these are not the conventional screw products. These are the WBT terminals, the one set of them costs good money and the sound quality is highly valued. Secondly, there are the double amount of sound output connectors and there are no additional switching elements. It is referred to the implementation of the dual-cable acoustics connection.
Rotel RB-1552 is well suited for the use in the complex "smart home" systems. It can be easily installed in a standard bay - the dimensions of the device match the 3U size. The cable clamps are delivered separately and can be attached to the case of the device. The control can be performed with the 12-volt bus trigger. This function is turned on and off with the toggle-switch located on the backboard.
It is obvious that the company's half-century experience in the development of the amplifiers was not in vain. The characteristics of the model are quite high: the Signal/Noise ratio of 120 dB, the frequency range from 4 Hz to 100 kHz, the 500 units damping factor. All of this is provided with the classical proven circuit of the AB class, the appropriate selection of the elements and the powerful toroidal transformer. By the way, because of the toroidal transformer the amplifier has got the additional fifth leg that supports the power supply.
Before you start listening, do not forget to warm up the amplifier. Only after a few hours the sound will no longer be too shrill and the resolution will be slightly increased. In general, the sound can be described as the energetic, dynamic and quite tough. Rotel RB-1552 starts to play the best way at a high volume; the quiet insinuating sound is not its nature. It deals well with the LF-range. The bass is clear, but the middle and the top are a bit bark. The overhangs are not long enough, so that the component cannot easily cope with a subtle, lyrical music. In general the sound has more to the analytical listening.
