Rotel RX-1052 Receiver

When I decided to upgrade my Adcom Pre/Tuner/Power Amp system I started to listen to Rotel integrated amplifiers and tuners because of the shelf space advantage. I was absolutely amazed at how good the RX-1072 sounded when it was suggested that I audition it. Again, the significant space savings realized by three separate components (Pre, Amp & Tuner) in a single unit was amazing. I did not hear any significant difference in sound quality between the receiver and the integrated amp in same price range. Make no mistake, the RX-1052 is definately not what we expected from the most successful recievers of the 70's and 80's, with the exception of high end separates, its sounds better than any comparably priced separates of that era. The best price I got new was $849, I was able to get one that was 6 months old and in "as new" condition for $380 plus shipping on eBay. It was a world class bargin. I would tell anyone in the market for new separates(good mid-fi) to consider this unit. The only minor issue is the sensitivity and capture ratio of the tuner section, but the stations that are tuned almost sound like CD quality playback with excellent soundstage and detail. I think you would have to break the $1,500 integrated amps price barrier to hear any improvement in sound. I couldn't be happier with my previously owned RX-1052 purchase.

I bought this because I already owned the 1072 CD player (amazing, by the way). Being a bit of an audio perfectionist, I was skeptical of getting high end performance out of a receiver. I have just purchased a pair of very high end ($6K) 4 ohm speakers. The 1052 handles them well and the music that it reproduces is just that, music--feels like the performers are in the room. Excellent dynamics, solid lows, shimmering highs, and an almost holographic soundstage. Highly recommended.