Rotel RC-1572 Preamplifier

The heart of an uncompromising audiophile stereo “separates” system is the preamplifier. Separate components hold the promise of the best possible fidelity, since each device is optimised for its role in the sound reproduction chain. The new RC-1572 stereo preamplifier leverages the design of our flagship RC-1590 preamplifier including its 32bit/768kHz AKM stereo digital-to-analog converter to handle critical signal conversion. Among many refinements, the RC-1572 utilises relay switching for analog sources instead of an IC based switch to maintain the integrity of the signal path for RCA, phono and XLR inputs.

Beneath the clean lines and user friendly fascia of the RC-1572 lies highly sophisticated engineering. Both analog and digital sources have been given equal consideration as today’s listener often has several digital sources, but may also enjoy legacy formats like vinyl LPs. A large toroidal transformer and regulated power supply ensures stable current and voltage requirements to all stages under dynamic conditions. Premium circuit components have been selected only after extensive listening evaluations. Careful routing of all low level signals has been practiced to ensure impressive signal to noise levels. The result is effortless musical dynamics, impressive detail and scale.

The RC-1572 stereo preamplifier is also extremely flexible. Four digital inputs (2 coax and 2 optical), plus the rear PC-USB handle digital sources up to 32/384 resolution. The 4 inputs are designed for sources such as TV set-top boxes, flat panel TVs or Blu-ray players for stunning playback. 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. The PC-USB input supports DSD signals. Integrated Bluetooth aptX is provided. Analog inputs include balanced XLR connectors, perfect for connecting the RCD-1572 via its XLR outputs, in addition to four pair of conventional RCA inputs. A moving magnet phono stage rounds out the source capability. XLR and single ended outputs are provided along with a mono subwoofer output, as are two 12-volt triggers to control on/off operation of an amplifier and/or other components. For custom integration, control options include RS232 on a standard DB9 connector, as well as an Ethernet port for IP control and software updates. In short, the RC-1572 is tremendous value and the perfect upgrade for owners of older analog-only preamplifiers.

Specifications

• Total Harmonic Distortion (20Hz-20kHz): < 0.004%

  Intermodulation Distortion (60Hz : 7kHz, 4:1): < 0.004%

   

  Input Sensitivity / Impedance

  Phono Input (MM): 3 mV / 47k ohms

  Line Level Inputs (RCA): 200 mV / 100k ohms

  Line Level Inputs (XLR): 300 mV / 100k ohms

   

  Input Overload

  Phono Input: 62 mV

  Line Level Inputs: 4V

   

  Output Level

  Line Level (RCA): 1V

  Balanced (XLR): 2V

   

  Frequency Response

  Phono Input: 20Hz - 20kHz, (0 ±0.3 dB)

  Line Level Inputs: 10Hz - 100kHz, (0 ±0.3 dB)

    

  Tone Controls 

  Bass: ±10 dB at 100Hz

  Treble: ±10 dB at 10kHz

   

  Signal to Noise Ratio (IHF “A” weighted)

  Phono Input: 80 dB

  Line Level Inputs: 110 db

  Channel Separation: > 64 db

   

  Digital Section

  Frequency Response: 20Hz - 20kHz (0 ± 0.5dB max)

  Signal to Noise Ratio (IHF “A” weighted): 100dB

  Input Sensitivity / Impedance: 0 dBFs / 75 ohms

  Coaxial / Optical Digital Signals: SPDIF LPCM (up to 192kHz 24 bit)

  PC-USB: USB Audio Class 1.0 (up to 96kHz 24bit)

  USB Audio Class 2.0 (up to 384kHz 32bit) - Driver installation required

  DSD and DoP support

   

  Power Requirements

  USA: 120 volts, 60Hz

  EC: 230 volts, 50Hz

  Power Consumption: 35 watts

  Standby Power Consumption: < 0.5 watts

  BTU (at 13.5 watts): 65 BTU/h

   

  Dimensions (WxHxD): 431 x 99 x 338mm

  Front Panel Height: 2U (88.1mm)

  Weight (net): 7.4kg

  Finish: Silver and Black