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Rotel RB1582 mk2 vs Emotiva XPA2 gen3

I looking for a stereo amp to power my B&W 804D3. I'm deciding between Rotel RB1582 mk2 and Emotiva XPA2 gen3 as they are priced similar. I mainly listen orchestra music and movie soundtrack. I have listened Rotel once and think it is pretty good. But I have never got a chance to listen Emotiva. I'd like to hear from anyone who has listened both. How does the Emotiva compare with Rotel in terms of sound quality?
zzkzl
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mayoradamwest
430 posts
 
Having heard the RB-1582 mk2 for many months in two different rooms in my space, I don’t feel like they can really make the 804D3 shine. There are plenty of amazing used amps in this price range. It’s be helpful to understand how much you’re willing to spend and other constraints. Size, heat, willingness to try tubes, music you listen to. Etc. 
gweedoargus's avatar
gweedoargus
10 posts
 
I ended up upgrading everything including all components, speaker cable, interconnects, power cables, power conditioner, and dedicated 20 amp outlets along with hours of positioning the 804s. All was worth it. Take it one step at a time and those 804s will shine. 
caphill
674 posts
 
@zzkzl 

What is your preamp and what is your front end source component(s)? 
I would say that sell your preamp and digital front end source component if you already have them and buy a Naim Uniti Nova. The Naim Uniti Nova is an all-in-one single box solution. It is a streamer/DAC/integrated amp all in a single chassis. Got built-in Tidal music streaming app & Spotify Connect and is WiFi equipped but you can also use Ethernet cable. It is a very sweet musical sounding unit and will sound really good on your B&W 804 D3. Naim electronics usually pair well with B&W speakers. The Naim Uniti Nova currently retails for $7500 new. Highly recommended! 

I had the Nova paired with the B&W 805 D3 in my bedroom setup before and they sounded fabulous together. 
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