Rotel Introduce: High Performance Surround Sound Preamplifier/Processor Rotel of America has introduced the RSP 985 Surround Sound Preamplifier/Processor
""The RSP 985 was designed specifically for the perfectionist who is not satisfied with an ëalmost there productí"", said Michael Bartlett, Rotelís Vice President and General Manager. ""The RSP 985 includes DolbyÆ Digital, DTSÆ Digital Surround, and THXÆ processing for full enjoyment of any video-based soundtrack. In addition, it benefits from our Balanced Design approach which combines the talents of an exceptionally capable Far East engineering team with subsequent parts evaluation and modification by an international panel of critical listeners. That makes the RSP 985 unique: It is an audio component with extensive video capabilities."" The RSP 985ís processing heart consists of two advanced Motorola DSP 56009 and one Motorola DSP 56007 24-bit ""number crunchers"" directed by custom-tailored programming. This powerful array (more than 130 MIPS processing power!) provides Dolby Digital, Dolby ProLogicÆ, and DTS Digital Surround decoding, all with full THX enhancements if needed. In addition, several music modes, all tuned by the Rotel design team are said to avoid the reverberant excesses common to less sophisticated products, complete the list of operating choices. Critical A/D and D/A conversion is handled by 24 bit processors from Crystal Semiconductor. A CS5360, with integral linear phase anti-alias filters and 128x oversampling, handles initial analog-to-digital conversion and provides dynamic range capabilities well in excess of 100 dB. Three 24-bit CS4390 ICs handle the equally critical post-processing D/A conversion. 24-bit effective resolution and dynamic range capability of 106 dB, these 128x oversampling converters match the Motorola processors in their ability to bring stunningly real and minutely delineated sound to all users. A carefully designed high-current analog section with more than 6 volts maximum output makes the RSP 985 capable of driving even low-sensitivity ""super-amps"" to full output with almost all speakers. As in all Rotel products, the power supply is based on a high-capacity, multiple secondary toroidal transformer feeding multi-segmented rectification and capacitor banks for minimal interstage isolation particularly critical when digital audio, analog audio, and both composite and S-video signal paths and switching share the same chassis. In addition to these basics, the RSP 985 features a comprehensive arrangement of inputs and outputs for almost unlimited source of component flexibility. Six A/V inputs (each with both composite and S-Video capability), six digital inputs (4 coax, 2 TOSlink), and extensive S-video capability make the RSP 985 supremely flexible. In addition, a discrete six-channel DB25 direct-in jack, says the company, makes the RSP 985 ""future-proof"" in its ability to handle new ""just over the horizon"" formats. In addition, the RSP 985 features multi-zone, multi-source capability so a customer can enjoy Bach in the bedroom while someone else watches CNN in the main listening/viewing area. The RR939 learning remote eliminates multiple-remote coffee table clutter and is pre-programmed with command code sequences for a wide variety of source components and display devices. A clear and powerful on-screen display aids in initial system configuration and provides instant feedback for day-to-day use. The company says that a simplified front panel, carefully designed after extensive research into the way the average consumer uses a surround processor, makes the RSP 985 accessible, even to the technophobes in every family. The RSP 985 is fully protected by a five year warranty. The RSP 985 will be available the first quarter of 1999 at a suggested retail price of $1,999.00. For more information on these Rotel products, please contact Scott Rundle, Rotel of America, 800 370 3741.