Audio Video News

Many home theater enthusiasts prefer separate components rather than all-in-one receivers. Rotel's RSP-985 is designed with this market in mind.

The RSP-985 is built from the inside out for cinematic perfectionists. A massive power supply insures noise-free video and high-impact audio, with enormous dynamics and superb clarity. Frequency response is specified at 20Hz-20kHz +/-1dB at a maximum of 0.03% THD. Its low output impedance means compatibility with almost every power amp on the market, and no problems driving long cables. Maximum output voltage is six volts, more than enough to drive even professional amplifiers to full power.

Audio processing refinements include 24-bit/96kHz digital-to-analog converters, with chips from Crystal Semiconductor and Motorola. Video bandwidth extends to 10MHz, with a 70dB signal-to-noise ratio.

The THX-certified preamp/processor decodes Dolby Digital and DTS soundtracks, and sports six analog A/V inputs and six digital inputs (4 coax, 2 Toslink). The sleek unit also has what Rotel calls "extensive S-Video capability," boosted by "future-proof" technology that enables upgrades via a DB25 connector on the back panel. Multi-zone, multi-source capability makes the RSP-985 ideal as the command center for whole-house audio systems. The RSP-985 comes with a companion RR-939 programmable remote control.