Rotel RB-1590
Class AB stereo power amplifier from Rotel, delivering 350 watts per channel into 8 ohms thanks to an oversized power supply with dual toroidal transformers.
Description
The Rotel RB-1590 is a Class AB stereo power amplifier, designed to deliver substantial power with a high level of control and detail. It is a pure power amplifier, intended to be paired with a separate preamplifier within a hi-fi system.
Its rated power output is 350 watts per channel into 8 ohms, with both channels driven simultaneously. This power reserve is built on an oversized power supply comprising two toroidal transformers custom-made by Rotel and eight special Slit-Foil capacitors, manufactured in England by BHC, known for their low losses and fast response. The circuit topology is dual-mono, separating the stages of both channels in order to preserve the stereo image. The unit also incorporates thermal and overcurrent protection, along with a dual power-on relay that limits inrush current at start-up.
In terms of connectivity, the RB-1590 offers balanced inputs on XLR connectors and unbalanced inputs on RCA, two pairs of speaker output terminals offering up to five connection options, 12 V trigger inputs, as well as a detachable IEC mains cable. The chassis stands 5U high.
This type of amplifier is suited to demanding hi-fi setups, particularly where the speakers have modest sensitivity or the listening room is large: two situations in which a substantial power reserve helps maintain dynamics and control without signal compression.
What to check before buying used
On a power amplifier of this calibre, the gain potentiometer (if fitted on the front panel) should turn without crackling or level jumps, a common sign of oxidation after several years. The power supply capacitors, stressed by the two toroidal transformers, deserve particular attention: hum at idle or a loss of dynamics can indicate ageing of these components. The condition of the speaker output terminals and the XLR/RCA connectors should also be checked, along with the correct triggering of the thermal protection during prolonged use at high power.
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