General Asylum: REVIEW: Rotel RB 1090 Amplifier (SS) by HiFi Guy

Model:	RB 1090
Category:	Amplifier (SS)
Suggested Retail Price:	$2000.00
Description:	380 WPC SS Power Amplifier
Manufacturer URL:	Rotel
Manufacturer URL:	Rotel

Review by HiFi Guy on November 27, 2001 at 05:14:12
IP Address: 216.98.90.134

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I thought I'd update my review of the RB-1090 after having listened now for about 6 weeks. The small deficiencies I noted in my earlier review have completely disappeared. The soundstage has become wide & deep. The small subtle sounds in music are now easily heard, with excellent dynamics. The midrange & top end are smooth & liquid. There is absolutely no listening fatigue with this amp. This amp needs over 200Hrs. of breakin to sound it's best. The amp also needs to warm up for at least 30 minutes prior to listening. IMHO one of the best highend values out there. I could not possibly justify spending more on an amp, as I believe this comes as close as possible to "state of the art" as is currently available, the price of $2000 notwithstanding. Regards, HiFi Guy.

Product Weakness: needs long break-in period.
Product Strengths: Tremendous power, ability to drive low impedances, sound quality, cool operation, price.

Associated Equipment for this Review:
Amplifier:	RB-1090/ Hafler9505
Preamplifier (or None if Integrated):	Musical FidelityA3cr
Sources (CDP/Turntable):	Linn/SME/Shure Type Vmr, SCD777es SACD Player
Speakers:	Paradigm Studio 100v2
Cables/Interconnects:	Homemade from Belden Mike cable
Music Used (Genre/Selections):	Country, Bluegrass, Jazz, R&B, Classical, 60's & 70's Rock
Room Size (LxWxH):	14 x 16 x 8
Room Comments/Treatments:	Sonex Panels
Time Period/Length of Audition:	6 weeks
Other (Power Conditioner etc.):	(2) Tripplite LC2400 Line conditioners
Type of Audition/Review:	Product Owner

Product Weakness:	needs long break-in period.
Product Strengths:	Tremendous power, ability to drive low impedances, sound quality, cool operation, price.