Just an FYI (You may already know) but Rotel is about to release new updated versions of their mainstream Integrated Amps, including the RA-1592. Their website has the new info.
Rotel RA-1592 vs McIntosh MA252 on B&W 702 s2
I was offered a trade in on the McIntosh MA252 for 3k so they are both a comparable price. the Rotel is 200W per channel and the McIntosh is 100W per channel but I have been told the McIntosh pushes way above its weight. Which is better for my speakers since they are fairly power hungry? I am also using them for Home Theater and really want to get as much volume and deep bass as I can out of them. Thanks!
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Is there something lacking in your current system configuration? Speakers are 90db sensitivity which is not too bad... If you want more bass/sub-bass get a sub or think about different speakers... Have you thought about tube rolling? Maybe get the Rotel for a home trial and compare the two side by side... I’ll bet you never use 50W from your McIntosh... Good luck in your choices... |
"McIntosh punches above it's weight" is really just an opinion. In reality, they are going to have different sonic signatures. The McIntosh will have a more mild and laid back kind of sound, but it will have a more neutral sonic signature. The Rotel will have more excitement and will definitely NOT be as laid back, but it has a slightly warm texture/feel to the sound. Since home theater bass is important, I would likely go with the more powerful Rotel which has a larger transformer and power supply. This will give you more deep bass muscle/strength. |
About 20 years ago, I thoroughly tested the amplifiers for B&W. For an average price, Rotel B&W was the best choice. The models have changed, but the nature of the components has not changed. For the children's homes, I deliberately chose the Rotel RA-1592 mk2 & B&W 702 Signature. I hope this helps. |
The MKll version of the Rotel RA-1592 was compared to the K1Ruby integrated from Marantz. https://hometheaterreview.com/rotel-ra-1572-integrated-amplifier-review/ And, this one liked it better than the Yamaha A-S1200 https://www.stereo.net.au/reviews/rotel-ra-1572-mkii-integrated-amplifier-review Hope that helps. All the best, Nonoise |