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Rotel RSX-972 100-Watt Multichannel Receiver

11-Oct-00

Rotel's new RSX-972 100-watt multichannel receiver is designed to end the dilemma often faced by customers seeking a high-performance alternative to complex multi-component home theatre systems. The RSX-972 is an elegant solution for those who want a balanced combination of high performance, non-intimidating operation, easy setup, forward compatibility and space-conscious design. ""The challenge in designing any product,"" said Michael Bartlett, Rotel's Vice President and General Manager, ""is to advance someone's enjoyment. With a surround sound receiver, that challenge involves far more than just technology. It includes how people use that technology and how accessible it is. That's why we've made a significant investment in industrial design. We've researched how even non-technical people use a receiver and used that knowledge as a starting point for front panel and remote control operation. Of course, we've also paid attention to what's behind the front panel, to the traditional details like sound quality and reliability that have always distinguished Rotel."" The RSX-972 includes DolbyÆ Digital and DTSÆ Digital Surroundô processing, implemented by advanced microprocessors from Crystal Semiconductor and Motorola. Full Auto-Detect makes the RSX-972 easy to use by analyzing the data stream from digital sources and automatically selecting proper decoding. Five-channel DSP (digital signal processing) options for multiple effects lets a consumer tailor the receiver to match the source. The receiver also includes an independent six-channel input for surround formats such as (DVD-Audio). The amplifier section delivers sufficient power for wall-rattling levels from all but the most inefficient speakers. Efficient ""chimney-style"" heat sinks enhance natural air flow for lower internal temperatures and improved long-term reliability. Six preamplifier outputs allow use of external power amplifiers for exceptionally demanding system configurations. The power supply is composed of an oversized ""EI"" core transformer, precision regulators and low-ESR capacitors. It is designed to supply all circuit stages with stabilized voltages. This segmented supply, complemented by superlative internal shielding, isolates each circuit stage from the next so that the low-level signals in the tuner section, for example, aren't swamped by stronger impulses from nearby power amplifiers. Of course, tight-tolerance parts ensure that circuits always function as the design engineers intended. Minute attention to signal routing and grounding strategies minimize noise and other spurious artifacts. The RSX-972 includes five assignable digital inputs (three coaxial, two optical) to complement analog audio inputs including phono, CD and two tape-monitor circuits with dubbing capability. Video capability includes composite, S-Video and component signal switching. The advanced LCD readout remote control makes system setup and operation easy. The AM/FM tuner section incorporates a four-gang quartz PLL (Phase Locked Loop) digital synthesizing tuner with RDS (Radio Data System) capability. In addition to the many RDS benefits like instant identification of station call letters, the ability to search for new stations by station content, etc., it provides superb sound quality and, with 30 station presets, quick access to favorite stations. Custom-programmed station IDs and a direct-input keypad let you quickly access any station without scanning unwanted frequencies. The RSX-972 also includes a fully independent Zone 2 audio output to allow ""second source"" distribution to a remote room. Independent volume control of second zone together with source selection is available, and can be operated via either a third-party IR repeater or third-party learning keypad. Installers will appreciate the five alternative power on/off commands including separate IR codes for on and off. The RSX-972 is supplied with the RR 969 learning remote control and a built-in timer. Availability: September 2000 Suggested Retail Price: $1,299 For more information, visit www.rotel.com. Category: Home Theatre Receivers

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