Rotel RB991 amp

GATOR3000

Thinking of buying used Rotel RB991 200WPC@ 8 300WPC@ 4 2 channel THX amp to go with my present HT setup.

The amp would be powering my front Rti8’s through Denon 3806 preouts for now.

My question is:

1. Would this amp make a noticeable upgrade for my present HT setup?
   
2. If I play music through my Denon’s 2-channel pure direct setup would the source of music go through the Rotel only? Meaning bypassing Denon’s circuitry or would the music source come out through Denon?
   
3. Is Rotel RB991 bright/forward or subtle lean back amp?
   
4. Planning to get Lsi15 for stand-alone 2-channel rig. Would Rotel RB991 be OK with Lsi15?

Thanks in advance.

All your help/suggestions would be appreciated.

Gator

cfrizz

Hi Gator, the Rotel amp would be a GREAT addition to your setup. All speakers enjoy getting lots of current fed to them. My 200 watt Parasound amp made a huge difference in my system. I started hearing stuff on my cd's I had never heard before!

Get the amp!

Skynut

My Sherbourn amp did the same.
More power and cleaner sound.
Plus it will make the pre/pro upgrade easier when you get to it.

GATOR3000

Thanks guys. Can anyone answer questions 2. and 3.?

EricT43

Direct mode on the Denon will still go through the Denon circuitry, such as the volume control, bass management, etc.

Direct mode will bypass DSP modes and tone and balance controls. You don't want it to completely bypass the Denon, otherwise you won't be able to control your volume or cross over to your sub if desired.

GATOR3000

Thanks Eric. That makes sense. I understand the volume and the cross over, but will it bypass the Denon’s amp and will the source be amplified by Rotell only?

cfrizz

Yes!

Let me clarify. If you get a 2 channel amp for your 2 front speakers, then the Rotel will handle only those 2 speakers. All other speakers will still be powered by the Denon.

GATOR3000

YES...........now I got it. Never hooked up external amp to my rig and want to make sure I do it right. Guess we all have to start somewhere.

I put my gear together with help and advise of this forum and it works well so far. Thanks guys!

Gator

EricT43

The internal amps will not really be "bypassed" when you hook up an external amp. They will still receive a signal. But, if there is no speaker connected to the internal amps, then there is no load, and therefore the amp is not doing anything. So it's sort of on "standby".

venomclan

Rotel amps tend to be on the laid back side with a touch of warmth. They are the same company as B&W and Classe. Check out the Rotel forum at htguide.com
Venom

GATOR3000

I will check out htguide.com. Venom thanks for the link. I find the Rti8's on the bright side for music. Glad to hear Rotel is on the warmer side.

Cheers