Short Break-in time, incredible build quality for under $200, holographic imaging and smooth, smooth sound.

output level a bit low.

Incredible performance for the price! Why isn't this thing
more popular? Blows away everything I've tried, especially
in the imaging department. I've heard new details in my
records that I've never heard before, and the imaging is
on par with my CD playback now.

Break-in time was quick... about 5 hours and the highs
smoothed out very nicely, all the grain was gone.

Only thing I don't like is the output is a bit low for
MM carts, I have not tried the MC section, also the
loading is not adjustable, but I wouldn't expect it
at this price point. Works perfectly with my OM-30,
so I can't complain.

System:
Cary SLI-50 Integraded EL34 amp
Tannoy MX-3 Speakers
Basis 2000 with Ortofon OM-30
Cableplex Silver 1 Interconnects
Cableplex Power 1 Power Cords
Kimber 4TC Speaker Cables

Similar Products Used:

Sonic Frontiers SF-P1, McCormack Micro Phono Drive, Creek OBH-8.

Quiet MM and MC stages
Audiophile grade components

Requires highish MC output

Bought this cut-price some years ago when I had a highly-regarded Technics 9900 amplifier with MC input. I use a Dynavector Ruby Karat cartridge (low output moving coil) and the Technics MC input was truly awful (very bland and 2 dimensional sounding). I bought the Rotel and immediately noticed that the dynamics had come back to life - everything much more rounded and brighter with a clear sheen to string music. Percussion and transients outstanding at the price. Only gripe was that my Ruby Karat ouput was a bit low for the Rotel - BUT Rotel modified this for me at a nominal cost (the unit does not allow for changing input sensitivities) and now I'm really pleased. Replaced the Technics amp with a Meridian 502 pre-amp and the Rotel is not disgraced with this superb unit. I don't think it's easy to get the Rotel anymore (at least not in the UK) but it really is good - Stereophile list it as a recommended phono component offering tremendous value for money - couldn't agree more - so 5* for value.