New Upgraded Version of an Award-Winning Amp
Long recognized as a central component in superb yet cost-effective music systems, the integrated amplifier’s job has evolved substantially as many music-lovers have migrated to digital sources. The original RA-1572 is one of the best examples of melding classic analog design with contemporary digital circuits to bring all of your sources to life with surpassing fidelity. The new, upgraded MKII version takes your music another huge step forward.
The RA-1572MKII has been engineered from Rotel’s award winning RA-1572 integrated amplifier with critical circuits and component upgrades, including a Texas Instruments 32-bit, 384 kHz DAC supporting PC-USB 32-bit/384k Hz PCM and MQA rendering and decoding. Over 33 component changes in acoustic capacitors, filter capacitors and power supply render audio with a wider, deeper soundstage, and improved accuracy and positioning. The MkII is Certified Roon Tested, too.
The Moving Magnet phono stage, XLR Balanced, Coax, Optical, RCA, front iOS USB, ptXTM, and AAC Wireless Streaming Bluetooth input connections ensure support of all popular sources.
"A Seriously Impressive Array of Features"
"Whichever way we skin it, this Rotel has the power to handle a broad range of loudspeakers whilst offering a seriously impressive array of features, all from an elegantly-style chassis," reports John H. Darko in his darko.audio review of the original RA-1572. "In other words, the RA-1572 is a handsome beast with everything needed to anchor an affordable hi-fi… As the terminology goes: here we have a more affordable super–integrated that, as the cliché goes, invites us to just add loudspeakers and stir."
Like other Rotel amplifiers, the RA-1572MKII’s circuitry draws on a high capacity power supply based on a Rotel custom designed and in-house manufactured oversized toroidal transformer. In addition to providing an abundance of voltage and current for all operating stages, the transformer’s toroidal shape helps prevent stray radiation patterns from corrupting audio signals as they pass through adjacent circuit stages.
Subsequent power supply segments built with tight-tolerance parts including T-Network capacitors provide the exact voltage and current requirements to ensure stress-free signal reproduction.
Built-in 32-bit / 384 Texas Instruments DAC
The RA-1572MKII’s input section is substantially more flexible than that found in most integrated amplifiers. In recognition of the predominance of digital sources available today, the RA-1572MKII has a built-in state of the art 32-bit / 384 kHz Texas Instruments digital-to-analog converter (DAC) and analog stages of the highest quality, supporting MQA rendering and decoding. The DAC and surrounding circuitry supports a vast array of source inputs.
A front panel USB input is provided for easy connection of a wide variety of music storage devices including Apple iPods, iPhones, and iPads. The Bluetooth input supports aptX for superior performance with compatible devices. In addition, two each coaxial (RCA) and optical (TOSlink) inputs provide easy connections for LPCM music sources including popular streaming devices with up to 24-bit word lengths sampled at 192 kHz.
Importantly, it is possible to fix the level and set an auto-on option with digital inputs for use with devices that provide their own volume control for convenient “hands-off” use.
Superb for Analog Sources, Too
Traditional analog sources get the royal treatment from the RA-1572MKII, too. The built-in high quality MM moving magnet phono stage lets you directly plug in your turntable and start listening to your favorite LPs. No outboard equipment is needed, and the built-in circuitry rivals the performance of many stand along phono stages.
Analog inputs include a pair of balanced XLR connectors that let you get the best out of balanced source components. Three pairs of conventional unbalanced RCA inputs are provided, too.
Robust Class AB Output Stage
The Class AB output stage uses discrete devices to ensure precise reproduction of all signals regardless of origin with virtually any loudspeaker. The power output, conservatively rated at a robust 120 watts per channel into 8 ohms, is substantial as it is a continuous “both channels driven simultaneously” rating fully in keeping with real-world requirements and Rotel’s tradition of providing extraordinary value. A mono subwoofer output is also provided.
User convenience features include two 12-volt triggers to control on/off operation of other components, a highly visible VFD display for set-up, internet-based software updates, as well as RS232 and IP control capabilities.
Free Control App for iOS Devices
Another great feature is the ability to download a free full-featured control app from Rotel for Android and iOS. This gives you convenience and capability of controlling the RA-1572MKII through your smartphone or tablet.
