When Naim introduced the Uniti Atom network amplifier, the concept of what a network amplifier or steaming amplifier could be completely changed. Not only did the Uniti Atom offer class leading sonics, but its touch screen interface, top panel volume dial, and sleek control app forced all of the competition to rethink what consumers would eventually demand from high-end network components.
Cambridge Audio’s Evo 150 offered a slightly different design approach but with a lot more power and integrated MM support.
NAD’s Master Series M10 V2 utilize more efficient power output technology and the BluOS streaming OS to create a very different streaming experience.
But what about Rotel? What have they done to differentiate themselves?
Rotel today introduced the RAS-5000 Stereo Integrated Amplifier with built-in Streaming and HDMI ARC for $2,999 USD. This all-in-one component boasts a massive linear power supply featuring a custom toroidal transformer, which allows the RAS-5000 to deliver 220 watts of Class AB power into 4 ohms (140 watts in 8 ohms).
The specially selected power supply claims to deliver ultra-low-noise power to all critical circuits, with large current reserves for the amplifier output transistors to ensure audio is delivered with deep, controlled bass energy with exceptional fidelity.
The RAS-5000 plays music at the highest quality from Spotify Connect, TIDAL Connect, Airplay 2, Roon (Roon-Ready), Google Cast, Qobuz and thousands of Internet Radio stations – while seamlessly expanding connectivity options by integrating HDMI ARC (Audio Return Channel) connectivity.
The HDMI ARC connection expands the scope of the RAS-5000 by also offering the highest resolution sound for your favorite TV shows, movies, and games directly from the TV.
In addition, there’s a wide array of traditional source inputs including Coaxial, Optical, RCA Analog, and aptX HD Bluetooth. Plus, its PC-USB input supports PCM and native MQA and MQA Studio decoding.
The Rotel RAS-5000 features a premium ESS DAC that supports up to 32-bit/384kHz PCM digital playback.
Price & Availability
The Rotel RAS-5000 will be available globally beginning in November 2023 for $2,999 USD / €2,999 / £2,799 in black of silver finishes.
* MQA Studio indicates that the product is decoding and playing an MQA stream or file, and denotes provenance to ensure that the sound is identical to that of the source material. ‘MQA Studio’ indicates it is playing an MQA Studio file, which has either been approved in the studio by the artist/producer or has been verified by the copyright owner. ‘OFS’ confirms that the product is receiving an MQA stream or file. This delivers the final unfold of the MQA file and displays the original sample rate.
