Renowned Japanese manufacturer Rotel completes its range of integrated amplifiers with the new entry-level Rotel A-8. It builds on the brand’s award-winning models, adopting the same design principles in a more compact and affordable format than ever before.
Rotel A-8: an attractive entry-level model
With the new Rotel A-8, the Japanese manufacturer offers an excellent entry into its hi-fi amp range. Priced at just €399, it is a more affordable alternative to the current Rotel A-10 MKII and Rotel A11 Tribute Edition (€599), while benefiting from the same manufacturing principles as the higher-end models in the series, such as the Rotel A-12 MK2 (€1,199) and Rotel A-14 MKII (€1,499). A real challenge for the brand, whose technology director Daren Orth says: “the opportunity to develop a high-performance integrated amplifier solution targeted at an entry-level price point, without compromise, is testament to the dedication, passion and commitment that Rotel brings to music lovers worldwide.”
Rotel A-8: toroidal transformer
This commitment to high sound performance is reflected in the use of components selected and developed after extensive listening tests. The power supply is entrusted to an excellent high-current toroidal transformer, designed in-house by Rotel. It ensures a clean, stable current to each component. The amplifier stage can deliver a respectable power of 2 x 30W into 8 ohms and 2 x 40W into 4 ohms over a wide bandwidth, from 10Hz to 100kHz. It operates in class AB, ensuring a warm, natural reproduction.
Rotel A-8: analog architecture
In the purest hi-fi tradition, the Rotel A-8 amplifier adopts an entirely analog design. It features three line-level RCA inputs and a phono input compatible with MM cartridges. This means it can be used with a wide range of sources, such as a CD player, network player or radio tuner. Finally, a front-mounted headphone output lets you enjoy your music with hi-fi headphones or a pair of in-ear monitors.
With the new Rotel A-8 amplifier, the Japanese manufacturer demonstrates its determination to make hi-fi more accessible for all music lovers. This latest-generation model is now available to pre-order on Son-Vidéo.com for €399. The first deliveries are scheduled for August, as is a full review of this amplifier by our teams.
