On March 29, Rotel announced the release of two new amplifiers: the Rotel C8 and Rotel C8+. Specifically designed for integrated setups, these electronics are equipped with innovations ensuring improved acoustic performance.
The two class AB amps benefit from the expertise of the Rotel brand. Present on the hi-fi market for 60 years, the brand continues to develop its catalog to offer ever more sophisticated sound reproduction. Rotel audio equipment is regularly recognized by the specialist press for its quality, reliability and value for money.
Rotel C8 and Rotel C8+: design
It is at the heart of Rotel’s state-of-the-art production workshops that the amplifiers are designed. With a total of 8 audio channels, these two multi-room powerhouses offer a superior sound reproduction. A huge toroidal transformer powers a line of high-power transistors. This configuration allows the amps to be paired with with any type of speakers, even the most demanding models.
The Rotel C8 and Rotel C8+ offer the possibility of “bridging” zone outputs. The amp can then double the output power by using two channels to create just one. The Rotel C8 model therefore delivers up to 140 watts and the Rotel C8+ up to 300 watts per channel (into 4 ohms with 4 channels). It should also be noted that Rotel enriches these new amplifiers with the PA Override automatic detection and switching function. In practice, source A can be configured to override all other sources. As soon as the corresponding input receives the sound signal, the amplifier automatically delivers it to every zone.
New amplifiers: connectors and controls
Both amplifiers adopt four RCA stereo analog inputs. The Rotel C8+ model also benefits from two optical and two coaxial digital inputs compatible with 24-bit/192kHz audio streams.
To facilitate their installation, the speaker outputs are adorned with detachable Phoenix connectors. These two innovative amplifiers can be used in an exclusively hi-fi system, as well as a smart home installation thanks to the 12v trigger, Ethernet and RS232 connectors.
A screen is present on the front of the Rotel C8 / C8+ amplifiers, allowing easy and fast configuration and control. It is also possible to select the sources and manage the volume using the buttons. In addition, the chassis adopts a 2U height to be rack mounted (rack ears included), without requiring additional space.
Rotel C8 Amplifier: key specs
Design and measurements
Class AB
Power output: 8 x 70W into 4 ohms, 8 x 50W into 8 ohms and 4 x 140W into 4 ohms
Connectors
4x analog inputs
1x Trigger 12v
1x Ethernet
1x RS232
General
Dimensions (W x H x D) 430 x 97 x 414mm
Weight: 16.7kg
Rotel C8+ Amplifier: key specs
Design and measurements
Class AB
Power output: 8 x 150W into 4 ohms, 8 x 100W into 8 ohms and 4 x 300W into 4 ohms
Frequency response: 10Hz – 20kHz (±0.5dB)
Sensitivity/impedance: 75 ohms
Connectors
4x analog inputs
2x optical digital inputs
2x coaxial inputs
1x Trigger 12v
1x Ethernet
1x RS232.
General
Dimensions (W x H x D) 430 x 97 x 414mm
Weight: 18.35kg
The Rotel C8 and Rotel C8+ amplifiers will be available from July 2022.
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