B&W 704 with Rotel RB-1080/Yamaha RX-V2500

[rav934]

Need some help picking an amplifier.

Was using the RX-V2500 with:

B&W 704 Fronts
B&W LRC-600 Center
B&W DM-601 Rears
Definitive Technology Supercube 2 sub

For home theatre this system is sufficient.

Not happy with stereo music.

Borrowed the Rotel RB-1080 and carefully compared the Rotel to Yamaha. (Note, used pre-outs from Yamaha to drive Rotel)

Comparison made with 704s only.

Yamaha sounded slightly muffled compared to the Rotel. Also, Rotel sound stage was much more specific and crisp. Bass was much toghter with the Rotel.

My questions:

1) I have read numerous complaints about the Rotel liability. What other amps should I consider? Any comments on the Anthem MCA-20?

2) I am in continuous upgrade mode. Will a higher end pre-amp make much of a difference?

Thanks!

[soundhound]

Question 1, Very reliable pieces, not to worry...
Question 2, You bet, I went from an older Yamaha RSX-V850 I believe, was using the pre outs into an RMB-1075, and when I put a Rotel pre in, it blew the Yamaha away as far as sound quality, soundstage, frequency response.......you name it, the Rotel won hands down.

[lvhung]

Why should you borrow a Rotel RSX 1067 for a test
very convinient and exellent matchs with BW 700

I think Yamaha is not designed to use as pre function