Rotel RC-1570

Separate components hold the promise of the best possible fidelity, since each device is optimized for its role in the sound reproduction chain. Rotel has been designing and manufacturing high performance components for dedicated enthusiasts for over 50 years. Those decades of experience, along with precise and efficient in-house manufacturing, are fully evident in Rotel separates. As countless reviewers have testified over the years, they rival and frequently exceed the performance of much higher priced offerings. The new RC-1570 stereo preamplifier, a blend of cutting edge digital circuitry with on-board Digital-to-Analog conversation and classic analog stages, is the latest example.

Beneath the clean lines and user friendly fascia of the RC-1570 lies highly sophisticated engineering. Both analog and digital sources have been given equal consideration as today’s listener often has several digital sources, but may also enjoy legacy formats like vinyl LPs. A large toroidal transformer and regulated power supply ensures stable current and voltage requirements to all stages under dynamic conditions. Premium circuit components have been selected only after extensive listening evaluations. Careful routing of all low level signals has been practiced to ensure impressive signal to noise levels. The result is effortless musical dynamics, impressive detail and scale.

The RC-1570 stereo preamplifier is also extremely flexible. Four digital inputs (2 co-ax and 2 optical), plus the rear PC-USB handle digital sources up to 24/192 resolution. The 4 inputs are designed for sources such as TV set-top boxes, flat panel TVs or Blu-ray players for stunning playback. The PC-USB input makes use of audio playback software such as iTunes or Windows Media Player to replay music from your computer digital library. A Bluetooth dongle is provided to be used with the front USB input. A premium Wolfson stereo D/A converter handles critical conversion from digital data to analog. Analog inputs include balanced XLR connectors (perfect for connecting the RCD-1570 via its XLR outputs) in addition to four pair of conventional RCA inputs. A moving magnet phono stage rounds out the source capability. XLR and single ended outputs are provided, as are two 12-volt triggers to control on/off operation of an amplifier and/or other components and RS-232 on a standard DB-9 connector. In short, the RC-1570 is a tremendous value and the perfect upgrade for owners of older analog-only preamplifiers.