RB-990 Vs. RB-1080??

[phuz]

I love my RB-990BX, but I'm wondering if I should replace it with an RB-1080, and if there would be much of a difference. Other than the 12v trigger, physical appearance, and balanced inputs I can't see much of a difference between the two.

Does anyone have any experience with both of these amps, or any general ideas/input on what I might expect? Does the 1080 have any edge over the 990? They seem to be very close brothers.

I'm using a 1056 reciever as my pre/pro for 2ch listening, and an RCD-1070 as my main source. Oh, and moderately efficient 4ohm speakers.

[Azeke]

Bi-amping capability is the only other thing that comes to mind.

Azeke

[phuz]

Anyone else have any input? Thanks

[Andrew Pratt]

I'd keep the 990. I know that the design didn't change that much between the two models so you're better off putting any upgrade money elsewhere IMO.

[phuz]

I'd keep the 990. I know that the design didn't change that much between the two models so you're better off putting any upgrade money elsewhere IMO.

Thanks Andrew, thats good to hear!

Maybe I'll have to check out the 1090. I'm running out of upgrade options.

[Fishy]

It sounds like you have money burning a hole in your pocket. If this is the case, you are more than welcome to send some of the green folding stuff my direction.

Thanks
Fish

[phuz]

It sounds like you have money burning a hole in your pocket. If this is the case, you are more than welcome to send some of the green folding stuff my direction.

Thanks
Fish

Ok I'll get right on that! hah

Audio is a hobby, and a bad habit. I'm on the lookout, buying and selling stuff all the time.

A few years ago I found what is now my RB-990BX (originaly $999) in the "used" corner of a little shop. It had barely been touched, someone had traded it in for some other gear.

I got it for $150

So now instead of looking for a good deal on a 1080, I'll be looking for a 1090. The hunt is always fun, and part of the hobby for me. Doubt I'll find *that* good of a deal on a 1090 though.... hehe

[Andrew Pratt]

Wow that's a great buy!

[lars]

A few years ago I found what is now my RB-990BX (originaly $999) in the "used" corner of a little shop. It had barely been touched, someone had traded it in for some other gear.

Right...and that little shop's address was...? :lol:

[Kens1]

Might want to consider another sub if you don't have two already. I just recently heard a system with two identical subs set up. I could not believe how good it sounded especially with music. I don't usually listen to my music with my sub on, but this would make me reconsider. I could not tell the bass was coming from the subs but rather it sounded like the mains (theil) just had amazing, crisp, accurate, and fast bass.
The subs were paradigm - can't remember the exact model # but they were not top of the line.
Just a thought.

[sprout]

I believe the 990 was based around the Michi design.
I still own one and an RC-990BX, it's matching preamp which I have never found out if it too was based on the Michi design? Anyone know?

I have also 2 1080's and to be fair while I love all my Rotel gear, I still prefer my 990BX.
It is used in stereo only with 990 pre, so I am not sure if using the 1080 with a 1098 is the very, very marginal difference?

Interesting as always

[eelco74]

The RB-990 and RB-991 both got quite a few design features from the Michi RHB-10. The RB-990 was a major step forward from the RB-890. I believe that apart from a few internal components, the basic layout has not changed.

If you compare the inside of the RB-981 and the RB-1070, the amp is 99% the same. Tried the 1070 as a replacement, but descided to spend the money elsewehere.

[sprout]

The RB-990 and RB-991 both got quite a few design features from the Michi RHB-10. The RB-990 was a major step forward from the RB-890. I believe that apart from a few internal components, the basic layout has not changed.

If you compare the inside of the RB-981 and the RB-1070, the amp is 99% the same. Tried the 1070 as a replacement, but descided to spend the money elsewehere.

Thanks for taking the time to reply :T
I suppose it is a case of why try to re-invent the wheel.

If anyone else knows of a review of the RC-990BX I would appreciate a link/info

I have hifi mags going back to 1990 but cannot find mention of it in any :E

Thanks
sprout