Pending Rotel 15-Series 2 Channel Purchase: I Have Questions

[resperc]

First let me say I love this forum. I have been a frequent visitor (and occasional poster) for a few years now.

Situation:
For many reasons and circumstances I am giving up my Rotel-based 5.1 system (RSP-1069/RMB-1075 combo with Polk Lsi Speakers) and going back to a stereo set-up. I intend to get a RC-1580/RB-1582 combo to replace the electronics. I am not sure on speakers, but Paradigm Studios, B&W 6-Series, PSB Image/Imagine and Monitor Audio RX Series are at the top of the list. I have made plans to go hear some demos in the coming weeks.

Questions:
1-The RSP-1069 can generate a lot of heat. The RMB-1075 runs pretty cool. How much heat will the RC-1580 and RB-1582 produce in comparison?
2-If for some reason I need to lower my budget would you substitute the more economic pre-amp (RC-1550) or the more economical amp (RB-1552)? Any personal experiences are greatly appreciated.

That is it for now. Thanks in advance for your comments.

[Mikael]

I am the happy owner of the RC1550 and RB1552, to my ears it's the best sounding Rotel combo I have ever heard, so I can recommend them very much. I have not heard the RB 1582, but if it's the same as the old RB1080 I would go for the RB1552 since that has a more full/warm sound compared to the RB 1080. The RC1580 is a high end preamp and therefore it is more revealing and analytic, to some ears more thin sounding than the RC1550 wich has a more laidback and full/warm sound. Hopes this helps, but go and have a listen your self.
If you go for sheer power and control(a bit thin sound) go for the RC1580/RB1582 combo. But if you like a little soul and a musical sounding combo go for the RC1550/RB1552.

[btf1980]

I have not heard the RB 1582, but if it's the same as the old RB1080 I would go for the RB1552 since that has a more full/warm sound compared to the RB 1080.

Huh? I'm not following your logic here. How does the smaller, weaker amp have a more "full/warm sound"? The RB-1080 might be the an older generation, but it's still a strong power amp. The RB-1552 definitely lacks headroom, even for smaller speakers.

To the OP, I would opt for the RB-1582 personally. There's only a $600 difference in price between it and the RB-1552 at msrp. On the used market, even lower. Just save up and do it right.