Rotel RAS-5000 Streaming Integrated Amplifier Review
Rotel has long been a trusted name in the 7Review lab. Naturally, any new streaming amplifier from them is promptly put to the test. And if it also plays at the Central German HiFi Days in Leipzig, we kill two birds with one stone.
Almost 70 years ago, Tomoki Tachikawa began distributing American Sylvania TV sets in his adopted home of Japan. However, as companies like Sony and Panasonic started producing their own home entertainment products, this business became less profitable. Tachikawa shifted focus to modifying American products and, by the 1960s, began manufacturing HiFi equipment under a new name. Rotel was born.
Initially, sales of their own products were insufficient for sustainable growth, so they also acted as a production facility for other brands. An early indication of their future reputation came in 1973 when the American magazine “Consumer Reports” awarded Rotel’s RX-402 audio receiver with the prestigious “Best Buy” designation. Little did anyone know, the second- and third-place models were also made in Rotel’s factories but sold under different brand names.
Genius Partnership
Today, Rotel is one of the most prominent names in internationally recognized HiFi. A major factor in their global success has been their knack for forming fruitful partnerships. In 1981, they teamed up with Bowers & Wilkins, a partnership that brought significant technological and economic synergies.
For almost twenty years now, Rotel and B&W have even shared a production facility in Zhuhai, China. They also have a successful history of testing with 7Review. Over the past 13 tests, Rotel has achieved an impressive average score of 89 out of 100. One standout was the Michi X3 integrated amplifier, which earned the “Reference Class” rating about two years ago.
Of course, Rotel will also be present at this year’s Central German HiFi Days, held at the historic Handelsdruckerei in Leipzig, where our editorial office is also based. Rotel will be found in the “Brandenburg” room on the 1st floor, showcasing their products alongside the Reference 9 and 7 speakers. You can undoubtedly experience the sound quality of our current test unit in person. You can also read our listening test of the Canton Reference 9. But let’s get back to the Rotel RAS-5000.
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Rotel RAS-5000
Late last year, Rotel introduced the RAS-5000, their new flagship in the realm of multi-functional amplifiers. The powerful integrated amplifier with a built-in streamer stands at a height of 14 cm and fits into the standard 43 by 42.5 cm rack space, making for a striking presence. The chassis is made of aluminum and, in our test model, finished in elegant black. The subtly speckled top panel and the brushed finish of the front panel, along with a well-arranged selection of tactile controls, contribute to Rotel’s signature look.
The large display is particularly attractive and well-suited for a high-end streamer of this size. Rotel has taken a minimalist approach to the available analog inputs. On the rear panel, we found only an unbalanced RCA input. An XLR connection would have been appreciated, even though the RAS-5000 is clearly designed as a streaming specialist. On the other hand, it offers a good variety of digital inputs: optical, coaxial, and USB-B. There are also network, USB-A, and HDMI eARC connections. The signal can be output through well-crafted speaker terminals, an analog pre-out, and a subwoofer channel.
Internal Features
A look inside the Rotel RAS-5000 reveals a very organized layout. The toroidal transformer, which powers the amplifier with up to 380 watts at full load, is housed in a robust enclosure that shields other components from potential interference.
Also notable is the strict symmetry in the channel separation. The sides of the chassis are fitted with generous cooling fins to protect the Class AB transistors from overheating. This is no small feat, as the amplifier delivers 220 watts per channel at 4 ohms, creating significant heat. The internal view also showcases the careful separation of different modules.
For instance, the ESS digital-to-analog converter (DAC) is mounted on its own board, ensuring minimal interference. This DAC, an essential part of a streaming amplifier’s operation, meets expectations with ease. With support for formats up to MQA Studio and resolutions up to 32-bit/384 kHz, the Sabre DAC elevates the RAS-5000 to a true digital connoisseur’s level. For the best sound quality, we recommend streaming music via USB.
Of course, Rotel equipped the RAS-5000 with wireless capabilities. At the forefront is Rotel’s own app, available for free in the App Store and Google Play Store. The app focuses on essential functions and benefits from a clean user interface. In addition to the physical inputs, the usual streaming options such as Apple AirPlay, Spotify, Tidal Connect, and Google Chromecast are easily supported.
Effortless & Uncomplicated
For our practical test of the RAS-5000, we paired it with a set of floor-standing speakers from Monitor Audio’s new Gold series. Integrating the test unit into our editorial network was quick and straightforward, allowing us to start listening within minutes. Using Tidal Connect, we dove right in. Our listening impression can be summarized with just two words: simply impressive! The album “RIP Chrysalis” by Eartheater, known for its complex timbres and sound textures, was reproduced by the RAS-5000 with stunning detail.
We’ve been using Rotel’s RA-1592 integrated amplifier as our mid-range reference for years, noted for its dynamic, punchy sound and rich tonal foundation. The RAS-5000 exhibits the same qualities, especially enhancing Eartheater’s digital textures. Symphonic works are also handled with finesse and subtlety. For example, Mahler’s 5th Symphony, conducted by Herbert von Karajan, benefits from the precise high-frequency detail and the warm, understated emphasis in the lower mids.
Tech Specs
Features Overview:
- Device Class: Streaming Amplifier
- Price Category: Mid-range
- Manufacturer: Rotel
- Model: RAS-5000
Specifications:
- Price (RRP): $2,999
- Dimensions (W/H/D): 43.1 x 14.4 x 42.5 cm
- Weight: 15.7 kg
Technical Data (according to the manufacturer):
- Circuitry: Transistor
- Power Output: 220 W/4 Ohms
- Power Consumption:
- Standby: 0.5 W
- Operational: 47 W
- Inputs: RCA, Optical, Coaxial, USB
- Outputs: Pre-Out, Subwoofer, Speaker terminals
CONCLUSION
Rotel has hit the mark with the RAS-5000 – or as they say nowadays: nailed it! A straightforward streaming amplifier that impresses not only with its lively sound but also with its extensive features and excellent build quality. And all this at an outstanding price-to-performance ratio.
Considering Rotel asks only $2,999 for the RAS-5000, we are simply amazed. Rotel has achieved another major success. The perfect blend of functionality, sound, and build quality has been effortlessly accomplished by the Japanese brand.
Special Features:
- App Control
Advantages:
- Quick, High-Resolution Sound.
- Excellent Price-to-Performance Ratio
Disadvantages:
- None
Evaluation:
- Playback Quality: Scored 57/60 – Converted to 9.5/10.
- Features/Build Quality: Scored 19/20 – Converted to 9.5/10.
- User-Friendliness: Scored 9/10.
- Price/Performance: Rated as “excellent” – 10/10.
Intermediate Result:
- Total Points: 85 out of 90 – Converted to 9.4/10.
Final Result:
- Overall Classification: Reference Class, 95%.
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