Rotel RB-1590

RB-1590 - Reference Stereo Power Amplifier

The RB-1590 is Rotel’s flagship stereo power amplifier and is designed for systems where high current capacity, stability at low impedance, and low distortion are essential. With 350 watts per channel into 8 ohms and up to 648 watts into 4 ohms, the RB-1590 delivers a power reserve capable of driving even demanding speakers in large rooms. The design is based on a full Class AB topology, a dual monoblock layout, and a massive power supply with two toroidal transformers and eight British-made slit-foil capacitors.

HIGHLIGHTS

• 2 x 350 W at 8 ohms / 2 x 648 W at 4 ohms
• Class AB power amplifier
• Dual toroidal transformer power supply
• 8 BHC slit-foil capacitors
• Dual mono signal architecture
• Balanced XLR and unbalanced RCA inputs
• Dual sets of speaker terminals
• 12V trigger integration

MASSIVE POWER SUPPLY

The RB-1590 is built around a power supply with two large toroidal transformers, custom-made for Rotel. This solution delivers stable voltage and high current capacity even at low impedance and with complex loads.

The eight BHC slit-foil capacitors act as an energy reservoir and are selected for their low ESR and fast response time, ensuring stable dynamics and minimal voltage compression under load.

CLASS AB AMPLIFICATION

The amplifier uses a traditional Class AB topology, optimized for low crossover distortion and high linear power delivery. This design combines high efficiency with the tonal stability and control expected in high-end stereo systems.

The measured frequency response extends from 10 Hz to 100 kHz with a ±0.5 dB tolerance, ensuring linear reproduction across the entire audible spectrum.

TRUE DUAL MONO DESIGN

The signal path is built in a dual monoblock architecture, where each channel has its own power supply section and signal structure. This reduces crosstalk between channels and improves stereo separation.

The result is a more stable stereo image and better spatial definition in complex recordings.

CONNECTIONS AND SYSTEM INTEGRATION

The RB-1590 offers both balanced XLR inputs and traditional RCA inputs, making it compatible with both high-end preamplifiers and integrated solutions.

Two sets of heavy-duty 5-way speaker terminals allow for bi-wiring or connection of multiple speakers. 12V trigger makes integration into larger systems simple and automated.

PROTECTION AND OPERATIONAL RELIABILITY

The amplifier is equipped with comprehensive protection circuits against overcurrent, overheating, and overvoltage. A two-stage startup sequence reduces inrush current and protects the components from unnecessary wear.

The design is housed in a massive 5U chassis with high mechanical stability and efficient heat dissipation.

POSITIONING

The RB-1590 is developed for high-end stereo systems where high power reserve, stable current delivery, and low distortion are necessary to drive modern speaker designs optimally.

A reference stereo power amplifier designed for large listening rooms, demanding speakers, and systems with a clear focus on dynamics, control, and signal integrity.