PRE/POWER AMPS 1,500-2,900
BLIND-LISTENING GROUPTEST

GROUPTEST WINNER

Rotel RC1580/RB1582 1,000/1,100
An undisputed badge-winner, Rotel promises a great deal for the money and delivers. in spades

P DETAILS

DISTRIBUTOR: B&W Loudspeakers TELEPHONE:

01903 221500

nice decay into ambience, while the detail is just delightful, clear and precise. You want more? Dynamics, maybe? Theyre generous and beautifully judged, on both the small and the large scale the big swells across a whole orchestra and the little inections in an individual voice or instrument. Oh, and though it couldnt be part of the main listening as several amps didnt have one, the phono stage is also something of a gem.

TECH LABS

LAB REPORT

WEBSITE: rotel.com

ike NAD, Rotel has for many years steered a careful course somewhere between the vast multinationals (Sony, Yamaha) and the small specialists, as well as managing to maintain a prole associated with distinctive products of good performance and value. These amps are actually among the more expensive weve seen from the company and its no surprise to nd out that they are the current stereo range-toppers. In terms of basic specication they are well equipped, with the RC1580 preamp offering eight line inputs, plus phono (both avours), while the RB1582 is a particularly high-powered beast. But does one actually need that much power for domestic audio? Obviously the answer entirely depends on the speakers, the space to ll with sound and the target loudness. A few spare watts never hurt and the high current delivery, which is also on offer, is often handy for controlling awkward speakers, even at lower levels. Youll notice that the preamp thoughtfully includes separate
source selection for listening and recording. In order to provide this exibility, Rotel has had to compromise slightly on the signal switching arrangements, which use relays for listening and an electronic switch for recording. The volume control is a motorised mechanical one, and the (switchable) tone and balance controls also use mechanical parts The power amp features a particularly large mains transformer, with separate secondary windings for each channel, plus huge supply smoothing capacitors grounded via a large copper plate.
With a cool 230W available from both channels at once, this is one of the most powerful amps weve tested in a while. Huge current reserves are available and low-impedance loads can be driven in comfort, although continuous sine-wave operation under such conditions will eventually blow internal fuses, as we found out! We doubt real music could precipitate that, though. Distortion is very low, even at the best part of 200W output, which is quite an achievement. It does creep up a little at very high frequencies, but even there it effectively vanishes below about 10W output certainly the first watt criterion is well met. Frequency response is very flat in the treble (theres actually a tiny rise from the power amp) and only minutely curtailed in the bass.

RESULTS AT A GLANCE

Sound quality
Even when playing at quite modest levels (the same as all the others in the blind test, decided empirically but well within the envelope of the least powerful here), these amps still manage to put out a powerful and convincing performance. By unanimous acclamation, they rocked harder than any others here and overall achieved the most convincing musical results. The nearest thing to a serious criticism was the mention of slight stridency on piano and other tuned percussive sounds. Take rhythm, for instance. Right across the board, the sound was felt to have not just excellent drive but also great rhythmic solidity and consistency it never wavers whatever happens to the musical texture. In part, this is due to the very solid, but also very well-tuned, bass, but the taut midrange clearly also plays a role. Treble is clean and detailed, with very

+30% -20%

GROUP AVERAGE
Fr resequ po enc ns y e Dy na po m we ic r Si no gna ise l-t rat oio To tal dis ha tor rm tio on n ic

OUR VERDICT

SOUND QUALITY
LIKE: Powerful and greatsounding in all areas DISLIKE: Just the VALUE FOR MONEY slightest hint of uppermidrange BUILD QUALITY WE SAY: It looks high end and it really sounds the part too. This kind of sonic FEATURES authority is something to treasure

OVERALL

im Out pe pu da t nc e

www.hifichoice.co.uk

SEPTEMBER 2010

HFC336.test 45

6/7/10 7:24:41 am
BLIND LISTENING AMPS GROUPTEST PRE/POWER 1,500-2,900

Conclusions

SOMETIMES A WINNER just jumps out at us and so it was with this group. But thats not to say that the others are devoid of merit. Even the rather eccentric units from Tsakiridis Devices have some qualities going for them and despite reservations, we are happy enough to suggest you give them a listen, especially if you are looking for something a little out of the ordinary. That leaves four pairs with identical overall scores, but very different specic attainments. As so often, personal taste comes into the equation here, not to mention the business of features. Do you prefer the ultra-civilised Cyrus or the energetic but occasionally unruly NAD? Would you rather listen to small-scale music through the Astin Trew, or lively rock through the Parasound? Do the
Pre/powers really do offer gains over integrateds and theres one in particular.
multiple digital inputs on the Cyrus (which is very decent, by the way) pull you in that direction? Theres also the possibility, with separate pre/power amps, of mixing and matching. We didnt try very much of that during this test (theres little point even starting just count the permutations!) but at the very least it can serve when features dont match up to requirements. One thing we did establish, to no very great surprise, is that power amps tend to have more character than preamps, a general observation that may be of some use if you do want to mix things up. Were quite certain, though, that wed be happy in the long-term company of at least four of these systems, probably ve. Standards are high.

THE WINNER IS.

EVEN THE BRIEFEST

TRY WITH THESE.

CD PLAYER: Roksan Kandy KA winner in our recent CD players group assured and exciting in equal measure LOUDSPEAKERS: Magnepan Magneplanar 1.6 1,499 Dipole speaker with unusually low coloration needs plenty of power PMC FB1i 2,100 Excellent extension at both extremes is complemented by natural midrange

GROUPTEST scan of our comments WINNER and ratings will show, soon enough, that theres a clear outright winner in this group. Rotels amps seem to offer a bit of everything, indeed a good deal of everything and more of most of it than any of the others here. They are more than merely competent, and since they also offer as good a set of features as any, recommending them in glowing terms is mandatory. High end on a budget? Wed struggle to think of a better candidate for the term!

RECOMMENDED RECOMMENDED

Make/model
Price Sound Value Build Features Overall Conclusion
Astin Trew AT1000/AT5000 650/850
Cyrus Pre XP D/8 Power 1,350/875
NAD C165BEE/C275BEE 650/900

Parasound P3/A23 800/900

Tsakiridis Devices Alexander/Artemis 1,450/1,450
Outwardly attractive, but rather too limited for general recommendation on sonic grounds
Deserves a protracted listen. Slightly lacklustre bass, but the resolution is compensation
Plenty to enjoy. But demanding detail freaks may find the sound a little rough-edged
Well featured, with a good spread of qualities and plenty of power. Good phono stage
Looks and sounds high end real sonic authority. Good phono is icing on a tasty cake!
Intriguing, but weve concerns about ultimate detail and also about quality control

Key features

Line inputs Recording outputs Phono input Size (WxHxD, mm) Weight Balanced input Headphone output Rated power output

430x110x340/430x110x340

215x75x365/215x75x365

435x99x300/435x150x370

437x105x350 437x105x350

431x99x337/431x144x407

430x140x400 165x190x410

6kg/12kg No Yes 50W

4kg/4.3kg No Yes 60W

6kg/15kg No Yes 130W

7.3kg/13kg Yes Yes 125W

7.7kg/17kg No Yes 200W

6kg/4kg Yes No 45W

Lab conclusions

Frequency response Output power Signal-to-noise ratio Distortion Output impedance
E = Excellent | G = Good | A = average | P = poor
0.1dB E 18V/40W A 97dB A 0.3% A 0.1ohm A 0.3dB G 23.5V/69W G 105dB E 0.002% E 0.08ohm G 0.3dB G 37.5V/175W E 108dB E 0.0015% E 0.06ohm G 0.2dB E 34V/145W G 102dB G 0.02% G 0.07ohm G 0.4dB G 43V/230W E 104dB G 0.003% E 0.04ohm E 2.8dB A 18V/40W A 88dB P 1.5% P 1.5ohm P

RC-1580

Stereo Control Amplifier Pramplificateur stro Stereo-Vorverstrker Preamplificador Estereofnico Stereo Voorversterker Preamplificatore Stereo Stereokontrollfrstrkare
Owners Manual Manuel de lutilisateur Bedienungsanleitung Manual de Instrucciones Gebruiksaanwijzing Manuale di istruzioni Instruktionsbok
Important Safety Instructions
WARNING: There are no user serviceable parts inside. Refer all servicing to qualified service personnel. WARNING: To reduce the risk of fire or electric shock, do not expose the unit to moisture or water. Do not expose the unit to dripping or splashing. Do not place objects filled with liquids, such as vases, on the unit. Do not allow foreign objects to get into the enclosure. If the unit is exposed to moisture, or a foreign object gets into the enclosure, immediately disconnect the power cord from the wall. Take the unit to a qualified service person for inspection and necessary repairs. Read all the instructions before connecting or operating the component. Keep this manual so you can refer to these safety instructions. Heed all warnings and safety information in these instructions and on the product itself. Follow all operating instructions. Clean the enclosure only with a dry cloth or a vacuum cleaner. Do not use this unit near water. You must allow a minimum 10 cm or 4 inches of unobstructed clearance around the unit. Keep the component away from radiators, heat registers, stoves, or any other appliance that produces heat. WARNING: The rear panel power cord connector is the mains power disconnect device. The apparatus must be located in an open area that allows access to the cord connector. The unit must be connected to a power supply only of the type and voltage specified on the rear panel. (USA: 120 V/60Hz, EC: 230V/50Hz) Connect the component to the power outlet only with the supplied power supply cable or an exact equivalent. Do not modify the supplied cable. A polarized plug has two blades, with one wider than the other. A grounding plug has two blades plus a third grounding prong. These are provided for your safety. Do not defeat grounding and/or polarization safety provisions. If the supplied plug does not fit your outlet, please consult an electrician for replacement of the obsolete outlet. Do not use extension cords. The main plug of the power cordset is a disconnect device of the apparatus. In order to completely disconnect the apparatus from the supply mains, the main plug of the power cordset should be unplugged from the mains (AC) outlet. The stand-by LED indicator will not be lit up to show the power cord is unplugged. The disconnect device shall remain readily operable. Do not route the power cord where it will be crushed, pinched, bent, exposed to heat, or damaged in any way. Pay particular attention to the power cord at the plug and where the cord exits the back of the unit. The power cord should be unplugged from the wall outlet during a lightning storm or if the unit is to be left unused for a long period of time. Use only accessories specified by the manufacturer. Do not place the unit on a bed, sofa, rug, or similar surface that could block the ventilation openings. If the unit is placed in a bookcase or cabinet, there must be ventilation of the cabinet to allow proper cooling. Use only with a cart, stand, rack, bracket or shelf system recommended by Rotel. Use caution when moving the unit in a stand or rack to avoid injury from a tip-over. Immediately stop using the component and have it inspected and/or serviced by a qualified service agency if: The power supply cord or plug has been damaged Objects have fallen or liquid has been spilled into the unit The unit has been exposed to rain The unit shows signs of improper operation The unit has been dropped or damaged in any way
Rotel products are designed to comply with international directives on the Restriction of Hazardous Substances (RoHS) in electrical and electronic equipment and the disposal of Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment (WEEE). The crossed wheelie bin symbol indicates compliance and that the products must be appropriately recycled or processed in accordance with these directives. This symbol means that this unit is double insulated. An earth connection is not required.

Figure 1:

Controls and Connections Commandes et Branchements Bedienelemente und Anschlsse Controles y Conexiones De bedieningsorganen en aansluitingen Controlli e connessioni Kontroller och anslutningar

Notas Importantes

Bij het maken van de verbindingen: 4 Zorg dat niet alleen de RC-1580, maar de gehele installatie uitstaat, als nog niet alle verbindingen gemaakt zijn. 4 Zorg dat niet alleen de RC-1580, maar de gehele installatie ook uitstaat, als u verbindingen gaat wijzigen. Wij raden u ook aan om 4 de volumeregelaar van de voorversterker geheel dicht te draaien (volkomen naar links) wanneer u uw eindversterker aan- of uitzet.

Hl belangrijk:

Quando effettuate i collegamenti assicuratevi di: 4 Spegnere tutti i componenti del sistema prima di collegare qualsiasi componente, inclusi i diffusori. 4 Spegnere tutti i componenti del sistema prima di modificare qualsiasi connessione nel sistema. Vi raccomandiamo inoltre di: 4 Portare il volume a zero prima di accendere o spegnere lamplificatore.

Note importanti

Tnk p fljande nr du gr anslutningar: 4 Stng av alla apparater i anlggningen innan du ansluter nya komponenter eller hgtalare. 4 Stng av alla apparater i anlggningen innan du ndrar ngon anslutning. Du rekommenderas ocks: 4 Vrida ner volymen p frfrstrkaren helt och hllet innan frstrkaren sls p eller av.

Viktigt

: 4 , . 4 , - . : 4 , .
RC-1580 Stereo Control Amplifier

Contents

Important Safety Instructions. 2 Figure 1: Controls and Connections 3 Figure 2: RR-AT97 Remote Control 3 Figure 3: Input and Output Connections 4 Important Notes 5 About Rotel. 6 Getting Started. 6 A Few Precautions 7 Placement 7 Cables 7 RR-AT97 Remote Control. 7 Remote Sensor AC Power and Control. 7 AC Power Input p 7 STANDBY Switch Remote OFF/ON Switch A 8 STANDBY Indicator 8 Input Signal Connections and. 8 Line Level Inputs e 8 Phono Input Selector Switch = 8 Phono Input w and Ground Connection q 8 Recorder Connections. 8 Output Connections. 8 Theater By-pass Mode. 9 BYPASS indicator IR Inputs and Outputs. 9 External Remote Input u 9 IR Output i 9 12V Trigger Connections. 9 Computer I/O Connector. 9 Phones Output. 10 Media Player Input. 10 Audio Controls. 10 Volume Controls 7 and C 10 Mute Button E 10 Balance Control Tone On/Off Switch Bass and Treble Controls Listening Selector Buttons 8B 10 Recording Selector Buttons 9D 10 Controlling Other Components. 11 CD Functions 11 DVD Functions 11 Tuner Functions 11 Troubleshooting. 11 Standby Power Indicator Is Not Lit 11 Fuse Replacement 11 No Sound 11 Resetting the IR Code 11 Specifications. 11

About Rotel

Our story began nearly 50 years ago. Over the decades, we have received hundreds of awards for our products and satisfied hundreds of thousands of people who take their entertainment seriously - like you! Rotel was founded by a family whose passionate interest in music led them to manufacture high-fidelity components of uncompromising quality. Through the years, that passion has remained undiminished and the family goal of providing exceptional value for audiophiles and music lovers, regardless of their budget, is shared by all Rotel employees. Rotels engineers work as a close team, listening to, and fine tuning, each new product until it reaches their exacting musical standards. They are free to choose components from around the world in order to make that product the best they can. You are likely to find capacitors from the United Kingdom and Germany, semiconductors from Japan or the United States, while toroidal power transformers are manufactured in Rotels own factory. We all have concerns about our environment. And, as more and more electronics are produced and later discarded, it is especially important for a manufacturer to do all it can to engineer products that have a minimum negative impact on landfill sites and water tables. At Rotel, we are proud to do our part. We have reduced the lead content in our electronics by using special ROHS solder, while our new Class D (not digital) amplifiers are up to five times more efficient than our legacy designs and still deliver power and performance. These products run cool, give minimum wasted energy, are good for the environment and give better sound too. Finally, we have printed this brochure on recycled paper stock. While we understand that these are small first steps, they are still important ones. And we continue to pursue new methods and materials for a cleaner and greener manufacturing process. All of us at Rotel thank you for buying this product. We are sure it will bring you many years of enjoyment.

Getting Started

Thank you for purchasing the Rotel RC1580 Stereo Control Amplifier. When used in a high-quality music audio system, it will provide years of musical enjoyment. The RC-1580 is a full featured, high performance preamplifier. All aspects of the design have been optimized to retain the full dynamic range and subtle nuances of your music. The RC-1580 has a highly regulated power supply incorporating a Rotel custom-designed toroidal power transformer and custom-made slit foil capacitors. This low impedance power supply has ample power reserves, which enables the RC-1580 to easily reproduce the most demanding audio signals. This type of design is more expensive to manufacture, but it is better for the music.

English

The RC-1580 printed circuit boards (PCB) are designed with Symmetrical Circuit Traces. This insures that the precise timing of the music is maintained and faithfully recreated. The RC1580 circuitry uses metal film resistors and polystyrene or polypropylene capacitors in important signal paths. All aspects of this design have been examined with the final goal being faithful reproduction of music. The RC-1580 has a superb phono preamp stage, derived from Rotels finest phono preamplifier, the RHQ 10. The preamp stage can be used with either a moving magnet (MM) or a moving coil (MC) phono cartridge. This shows our commitment to phono sound quality and our interest in the recreation of fine music. The RC-1580 is straightforward in its installation and operation. If you have experience with other stereo systems, you shouldnt find anything perplexing. Simply plug in the associated components and enjoy.

RR-AT97 Remote Control

The RC-1580 includes a full-function remote control that performs most of the functions of the front panel controls. In addition it can operate many of the controls on other Rotel components. See the Controlling Other Components section of this manual for more information. Most of the RR-AT97 functions duplicate the front panel controls. In this manual the remote control functions are covered in the same section as the front panel control operation. Numbers in boxes such as 1 indicate items on the front and rear panel control and connection illustrations. See Figure 1 on page 3. Letters in circles such as A indicate items on the RR-AT97 illustration. See Figure 2 on page 3.

Remote Sensor 5

A Few Precautions
Please read this manual carefully. It provides complete information on how to incorporate the RC-1580 into your system as well as general information that will help you get optimum sound performance. Please contact your authorized Rotel dealer for answers to any questions you might have. In addition, all of us at Rotel welcome your questions and comments. Save the RC-1580 shipping carton and all enclosed packing material for future use. Shipping or moving the RC-1580 in anything other than the original packing material may result in severe damage to your amplifier. Fill out and send in the owners registration card packed with the RC-1580. Also be sure to keep the original sales receipt. It is your best record of the date of purchase, which you will need in the event warranty service is ever required.
The Remote Sensor picks up the infrared signals from the remote control. Do not cover or block the sensor. It must be clear of obstructions or the remote control will not work properly. The operation of the Remote Sensor can also be affected if it is exposed to bright light, particularly sunlight. In addition remote control functions may not work reliably if the batteries in the RR-AT97 are weak.

AC Power and Control

AC Power Input p
Note: Be sure to set the Volume control to the minimum (full counterclockwise) position before connecting the power cord. Connect the supplied power cord to the AC Input receptacle on the rear panel. Do not connect the power cord to the power outlet until all the audio input and output connections have been made. It is usually best to plug the RC1580 directly into a 2-pin polarized wall outlet. Avoid the use of extension cords. A heavy duty multi-tap power outlet strip may be used if it (and the wall outlet) is rated to handle the current demanded by the components connected to it. Your RC-1580 is configured at the factory for the proper AC line voltage in the country where you purchased it (either 120 volts AC or 230 volts AC with a line frequency of either 50 Hz or 60 Hz). The AC line configuration is noted on a decal on the rear panel. Note: Should you move your RC-1580 amplifier to another country, it is possible to reconfigure your amplifier for use on a different line voltage. Do not attempt to perform this conversion yourself. Opening the enclosure of the RC-1580 exposes you to dangerous voltages. Consult a qualified service person or the Rotel factory service department for information. If you are going to be away from home for an extended period of time such as a month-long vacation, it is a sensible precaution to unplug your amplifier (as well as other audio and video components) while you are away.

Placement

Like all audio components that handle low-level signals, the RC-1580 can be affected by its environment. Do not stack the RC-1580 on top of a power amplifier. This will minimize chance it will pick up hum or interference. We recommend installing the RC-1580 in furniture designed to house audio components. Such furniture is designed to reduce or suppress vibration which can adversely affect sound quality. Ask your authorized Rotel dealer for advice about component furniture and proper installation of audio components.

Cables

Be sure to keep the power cords, digital signal cables and regular audio signal cables in your installation away from each other. This will minimize the chance of the regular audio signal cables picking up noise or interference from the power cords or digital cables. Using only high quality, shielded cables will also help to prevent noise or interference from degrading the sound quality of your system. If you have any questions see your authorized Rotel dealer for advice about the best cable to use with your system.

Input Signal Connections w and e
[See Figure 3.] The RC-1580 has conventional RCA-type connectors for all inputs. Note: To prevent loud noises that neither you nor your speakers will appreciate, make sure the system is turned off when you make any signal connections.

Line Level Inputs e

The CD, Tuner, and Aux inputs of the RC-1580 are line level inputs. These are for connecting the analog outputs from components such as CD players, DVD players, video disc recorders, tuners for audio or video, or VCRs. The Left and Right channels are clearly labeled and should be connected to the corresponding channels of the source component. The Left RCA connectors are white, the Right connectors are red. Use high quality RCA cables for connecting input source components to the RC-1580. Ask your authorized Rotel dealer for advice about cables.

Output Connections y

Most RCA-type output connectors are compatible with most power amplifiers. As always, use high quality cables and be sure to connect the Left and Right channel outputs of the RC-1580 to the correct channels of the amplifier. Note: There are two sets of RCA outputs on the RC-1580. The second set of outputs may be used in custom system configurations to drive a second power amplifier or to supply a signal to a special signal processor.
Phono Input Selector Switch =
The Phono input is for a moving magnet (MM) or moving coil (MC) phono cartridge only and is incompatible with line level components. Set the Phono Input Selector Switch as appropriate for the phono cartridge you are using. Leave the switch button in the out position for a moving magnet cartridge; push the switch in for a moving coil cartridge.

Theater By-pass Mode

BYPASS indicator 2
The input marked Tape 2 r has been set to provide a by-pass mode for users requiring a unity gain stage through which they can use their surround sound processor. This input will only function in a by-pass mode so do not connect a tape recording unit to this input. To use the By-pass mode, plug the front channel output of the surround sound processor into the Tape 2 inputs. When the Tape 2 input B8 is selected, the signal from the processor is sent directly through the preamplifier and by-passes the tone and volume functions. Once made a by-pass mode, the BYPASSindicator of front panel is turned on. Setting a system up this way provides a way to integrate a stereo amplifier to be used as the front channels of a surround sound system. Only the Tape 2 input can provide the by-pass function. It requires no additional setup, making it easy to switch between normal stereo mode and surround sound mode by using the input selector. Note: Rotel uses the same operating IR codes for all its audio products. That means that in a situation where the operator will use a remote control then it is recommended that the codes for the RR-AT97 and the RC-1580 be changed. To change the IR code of the RR-AT97, press the Phono button and the 2 button at the same time. To change the IR code of the RC-1580, point the RR-AT97 at the RC-1580 and press and hold the 2 button for 5 seconds. The LED in the volume control will flash to indicate the IR code has changed. Its is probably easiest to choose a third party learning remote control and teach the new source selection codes and those of the surround sound processor in to it. Alternatively you can use the two remote controls to operate the different systems. Note: After changing the remote codes for the remote control and the preamplifier as described above, the remote control will no longer operate the Rotel tuners. To return the RR-AT97 IR code to the default setting, press the Phono button and the 1 button at the same time. To return the IR code of the RC-1580 to the default setting, point the RRAT97 at the RC1580 and press and hold the 1 button for 5 seconds. The LED in the volume control will flash to indicate the IR code has changed.

IR Output i

The IR OUT 1 and 2 jacks send IR signals received at the EXTERNAL REM IN jack to an infrared emitter placed in front of a source component or to other Rotel components with compatible rear panel IR input connectors. This output is used to allow IR signals to pass along IR signals from a remote control when the sensors on the source components are blocked by installation in a cabinet. See your authorized Rotel dealer for information on IR repeater systems. NOTE: The EXT REM IN jack located next to these jacks is for use with an external IR sensor duplicating the front panel IR sensor and located in the primary zone.
12V Trigger Connections o
Many Rotel amplifiers offer the option of turning them on and off using a 12 volt trigger signal sent to them. The RC-1580 provides two 12 volt trigger outputs. When the RC1580 is turned on, a 12 volt DC signal is sent to the amplifiers to turn them on. When the RC1580 is put in STANDBY mode, the trigger signal is interrupted and the amplifiers turn off. To use the remote turn on feature, connect one of the RC1580 12V TRIGGER OUT jacks to the 12 volt trigger input of a Rotel amplifier, using a cable with mono 3.5 mm mini-plugs on both ends. The +12 V DC signal appears at the tip connector. Note: The number 1 12V trigger signal is turned off when headphones are plugged into the front panel headphone outlet. See the Phones Output section.

Computer I/O Connector t

The RC-1580 can be operated from a personal computer running audio system control software from third-party developers. This control is accomplished by sending the operating codes normally sent by the RR-AT97 remote control over a hard-wired network connection from the computer. The COMPUTER I/O input provides the necessary connection on the back panel. It accepts standard RJ-45 8-pin modular plugs, such as those commonly used in 10-BaseT UTP Ethernet cabling. For additional information on the connections, software, and operating codes for computer control of the RC-1580, contact your authorized Rotel dealer.

IR Inputs and Outputs

External Remote Input u
This 3.5 mm mini-jack (labeled EXT REM IN) receives command codes from an industry-standard infrared receivers (Xantech, etc.) located in the main listening room. This feature is useful when the unit is installed in a cabinet and the front-panel sensor is blocked. Consult your authorized Rotel dealer for information on external receivers and the proper wiring of a jack to fit the mini-jack receptacle. Note: The IR signals from the EXTERNAL REMOTE IN jack can be relayed to source components using external IR emitters or hard wired connections from the IR OUT jacks.

RC-1580 Stereo Control Amplifier Balance Control 6

Phones Output 0

The Phones output allows you to connect headphones for private listening. This output accommodates standard 1/8 stereo mini plugs. If your headphones have a 1/4 plug you will need an adapter plug. Contact your authorized Rotel dealer, to get the correct adapter plug. Note: Plugging in a set of headphones does not cut off the signal to the outputs. The power amplifier will continue to receive a signal and the speakers will continue to play. However, when headphones are plugged in, the 12V turn-on signal from the number 1 12V Trigger Output is cut off. (The number 2 12V Trigger output remains on.) So if your system is configured to use the number 1 12V Trigger Output to turn the amplifier on and off, plugging in headphones will automatically turn off the power amplifier.
The Balance Control adjusts the left-to-right balance of the sound output. Normally the control should be in the center position. In some situations, typically when the main listening position is not ideally centered between the speakers, it may be necessary to adjust the control to achieve proper left-to-right balance. Turning the control counter-clockwise shifts the sound balance to the left. Turning the control clockwise shifts the sound balance to the right.

Tone On/Off Switch 4

When the Tone Switch is in the Off (out) position the Bass and Treble Control circuits are bypassed to ensure the purest possible sound. Leave the Tone Switch in the Off position unless you want to use the Tone Controls. Push in the Tone Switch if you want to adjust the Tone Controls.
Media Player Input A 3.5mm (1/8) stereo input socket for a Media Player is provided on the front of the RC-1580 and is selected by pressing the AUX3 Listening input buttons. Any portable stereo cassette, compact disc player or hard disc playback device can be connected via this input. If the Media Player input is connected to the headphone outputs of the player note that you may need to adjust the volume control on the player for sound to be heard. If the sound is loud and distorted turn down the volume on the player. If the sound is not loud enough, even when the RC-1580 volume control is turned up fairly high, then carefully turn up the volume control on the player. Note: When the 3.5mm (mini jack) is inserted into the Media Player socket the rear input called AUX3 is disconnected. Removing the 3.5mm plug from the Media player socket will allow the rear AUX3 input to function.
Bass and Treble Controls 3
When the Tone Switch is pushed in, turning the Bass and Treble Controls adjusts the tone balance of the sound. Turn the Controls clockwise to increase the bass or treble output. Turn the Controls counterclockwise to decrease the bass or treble output. A properly set up high-performance audio system produces the most natural sound with little or no adjustment of the tone controls. Use these controls sparingly. Be particularly careful when turning the controls up (clockwise). This increases the power output in the bass or treble range, increasing the load on the amplifier and speakers.

Listening Selector Buttons 8B
Press one of the Listening Selector Buttons to select the input signals that goes to the main outputs and to the power amplifier or, more simply, which source is heard.
Recording Selector Buttons 9D

Audio Controls

The front panel Volume control 7 increases or decreases the volume in both channels at the same time. Turn it clockwise to increase the volume or counterclockwise to decrease the volume. On the RR-AT97 remote use the Volume + and buttons C to increase or decrease the volume level.
Press one of the Recording Selector Buttons to select the input signal that goes to the record outputs. When you are not recording, press the Off button. This minimizes the chance of interference from other components in the system. Having a separate Recording and Listening selector adds a significant degree of flexibility in how you can use the RC-1580. For example by selecting CD with the Record Selector and selecting Tuner with the Listening Selector you can record a CD onto a tape while listening to the tuner. If you have a three-head recorder or a DAT recorder that allows simultaneous read and write operation, you can monitor your recording by pressing the TAPE 1 LISTENING button. Note: The TAPE 2 input is a dedicated Theater By-Pass input. See the information in the Theater Bypass Mode section on the preceding page.

Volume Controls 7 and C

Mute Button E
Remote Only Push the MUTE button on the remote once to turn the sound off. Press the button again to restore previous volume levels. The LED in the volume control will flash when the unit is muted. Note: Pressing the volume buttons on the remote also cancels the muting function.
Controlling Other Components
In addition to operating many of the controls of the RC-1580, the RR-AT97 remote control can operate basic features of some Rotel CD players, DVD players, and AM/FM tuners.

No Sound

CD Functions The / PLAY,. STOP, , PAUSE, { } TRACK and, RANDOM
buttons, and NUMERIC buttons (0 - +10) operate many Rotel CD players after the CD Listening button on the remote has been pressed.
Check the signal source to see if it is functioning properly. Make sure the cables from the signal source to the RC-1580 inputs are connected properly. Be sure the Listening Selector is set to the proper input. Check the power amplifier for power and proper operation. Check all the wiring between the RC-1580 and the power amplifier, and the power amplifier and speakers.
DVD Functions The / PLAY,. STOP, , PAUSE, {}TRACK and RANDOM buttons
operate Rotel DVD players, after the AUX1 Listening button on the remote has been pressed.
The BAND, TUNING < >, and additional tuning feature buttons (PTY, TA, TP, etc.) operate Rotel tuners, after the TUNER listening button on the remote has been pressed. Note: By default, the RR-AT97 operates the Rotel RT-1080/RT1082/ RT-1084 tuners. The remote can be reprogrammed to operate the RT940AX tuner. This programming only needs to be done once: To program for the RT-940AX: press the ON button and the 2 button simultaneously. To program for the RT-1080/RT1082/RT-1084: press the ON button and the 1 button simultaneously.

Strmfrsrjning

Strmfrbrukning Strmfrbrukning, standby-lge Mtt (B x H x D) Vikt (netto)
Alla specifikationer r korrekta vid tryckningen. Rotel reserverar sig rtten att gra frbttringar utan fregende meddelanden.
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RC-1580
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ROTEL

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, . , . . Rotel .

RR-AT97

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STANDBY 1 A STANDBY

STANDBY 1 . RC-1580 STANDBY. IN, STANDBY . , - 89 .
STANDBY, RC-1580 standby ON OFF A RR-AT97. , , STANDBY, Listening. RC-1580 , STANDBY , OFF. Out ,. : , ( ) STANDBY.
PHONO ( LEFT RIGHT). , , PHONO. .
/ Tape 1 Tape 2 /, Tape 2 Theater Bypass,. Bypass. RC-1580 , TAPE , . , . .

w e

(. 3) RC-1580 RCA . : , , , .
RC-1580 RCA, . , Left Right RC-1580 . : RC-1580 RCA. .

RC-1580 CD, TUNER, AUX.

Theater By-pass
, Tape 2, r (by-pass) , , . by-pass, . By-pass, Tape 2. Tape 2 B8, . by-pass, BYPASS . , . Tape 2 by-pass. , . : Rotel - (IR) . , , RR-AT97 RC-1580. - RR-AT97, Phono 2. - RC-1580, RRAT97 RC-1580 2 5. LED , , -. , , . . : , , Rotel. - RR-AT97 IR , Phono 1. - RC-1580 , RR-AT97 RC-1580 1 5. LED , , -.

BYPASS 2

, . Rotel. : EXT REM IN - IR OUT.

(IR OUTPUT) i

IR OUT , EXT REM IN, , -, CD-, Rotel, . , , . Rotel. : EXT REM IN, IR OUT, , .

12- o

Rotel 12- , . RC-1580 12- . RC-1580 , 12- . RC-1580 STANDBY, . 12V TRIGGER OUT RC-1580 12- Rotel, - 3.5 . +12 DC . : 1 , . Phones Output.
(External remote input) u
3,5 ( EXT REM IN) (, Xantech .), . , , ; ,

Computer I/O t

RC-1580 , , . , RR-AT97, .

RC-1580 MUTE ( ) E

, MUTE RR-AT97. , . . : MUTE.
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Phones 1/8. , . Rotel . : . . , , 12- , 1. ( 2 .) , 1 , , , .

BALANCE ( ) 6

. , , ( ) ( ).

(TONE On/Off) 4

Off, Bass Treble . , . On.

BASS TREBLE ( ) 3

RC-1580 3.5 (1/8) (Media Player). , , AUX3. , -, (HDD) . , , . , , , . : Media Player 3.5 (1/8) , AUX 3 , , , . 3.5 , AUX 3 .
Tone On , Bass ( ) Treble ( ). () , Bass (Treble) . () , Bass (Treble) . . . , , .

Listening Selector 8B

, , , .

Recording Selector 9D

, . , Off. . (Recording and Listening) RC-1580. , CD Record Selector Listening Selector, CD .
7, , . RR-AT97 Volume + C .

(VOLUME) 7 C

, , , RC-1580 , , . Rotel .
DAT-, , , TAPE 1 LISTENING. : TAPE 2 Theater By-pass. Theater Bypass .
, . , RC-1580 ; , Listening Selector . RC-1580 . , . , .
RC-1580, RR-AT97 CD- Rotel, DVD- AM/FM.
, CD Listening, / PLAY,. STOP, , PAUSE, { } TRACK RANDOM, NUMERIC (0 +10) CD- Rotel.
- RC-1580 Bypass, , Bypass Function . . RC-1580 Recording Off 9 5. Listening CD 8 , , . Bypass LED , Off.
, AUX1 Listening, / PLAY,. STOP, , PAUSE, {}TRACK RANDOM DVD- Rotel.
, TUNER listening, BAND, TUNING < >, (PTY, TA, TP .) Rotel. , : RR-AT97 Rotel RT-1080/RT-1082/RT-1084. RT-940AX. : RT-940AX: ON 2. RT-1080/RT-961/ RT-955: ON 1.
(20 20 ) <0,004% (60 : 7 , 4:1) <0,004% 1 / Phono MC Phono MM 250 / 100 2,5 / / // 20 , +0, 100 , +0,5 + 6 100 + 6 /120 , , 2.7,7
Phono (MC/MM) / Phono Phono MC/MM
- . , , RC-1580, .

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Standby ()
RC-1580 , , . , , ,. , - , .

. Rotel .

The Rotel Co. Ltd. 10-10 Shinsen-Cho Shibuya-Ku Tokyo 150-0045 Japan Rotel of America 54 Concord Street North Reading, MA 01864-2699 USA Phone: +1 978-664-3820 Fax: +1 978-664-4109 Rotel Europe Dale Road Worthing, West Sussex BN11 2BH England Phone: + 44 (0)761 Fax: +44 (0)525 Rotel Deutschland Vertrieb: B&W Group Germany GmbH Kleine Heide 12 D-33790 Halle/Westf., Deutschland Tel.: 05201 / 87170 Fax: 05201 / 73370 E-Mail: info@bwgroup.de www.rotel-hifi.de www.rotel.com
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