I have been very happy with the Rotel, although I must preface that by saying that it is my first venture into the world of (multi-channel) HT. When I came across a deal on the Thiels (and two of the Adcoms), I decided to make the HT plunge. My initial thoughts were to get either an Adcom or a Sunfire pre/pro. However, when I went to Progressive Audio in Columbus, Ohio (my favorite dealer), they steered me towards the Rotel. They claim that it is a good bit better than the comparable Sunfire or Adcom pre/pros, and that the only unit that they would recommend above the RSP-1066 is the Krell Showcase. Well, I wasn't in a position to pony up for a Krell, but I did get a chance to A/B the two, and while I agree that the Showcase is more musical, the Rotel impressed me, especially considering the price differential.
I don't read a lot of rave reviews about the RSP-1066 on Audiogon, but I have read several other reviews (conviently linked to the Rotel website ;^)) which really talked it up. I find it to match well with my system, and aside from not having video switching capabilities (it won't let you plug in a component or S-video source and then send a composite signal to the TV), it is very easy to use and sounds great in 2-channel. The remote is a bit cumbersome, though. I did especially like the fact that it is software upgradeable.
For cost efficiency in a new product, I found the RSP-1066 hard to beat. For amps, while the Rotels are quite good, if you are not concerned about product matching, I think there is some worthy competition in the Rotel's price range. I am a separates kind of guy, myself, so I would encourage you to consider that route.
Hope this helps, Tom.
