Rotel A14 MKII

Features

Robust Class AB 2-Channel Amplifier: The Rotel A14 MKII stereo integrated amplifier features a robust Class AB amplifier design powered by Rotel’s in-house manufactured, oversized toroidal transformer and an array of 4 high efficiency slit-foil bulk storage capacitors delivering an effortless acoustic performance. The integrated class AB amplifier is rated at 80 watts x 2 channels into 8 ohms or 150 watts x 2 channels into 4 ohms, @ 20-20kHz, with 0.018% THD.  

• The A14 MKII's power output is rated at 80 (8-ohm) or 150 (4-ohm) watts per channel with all channels driven. Rotel has chosen to specify the power output in this way because, in Rotel's experience, it gives the truest value of the receiver or amplifier's power capability.
• When comparing specifications for different amplifiers, you should be aware that power output is often specified in other ways, so you may not be comparing "apples-to-apples". For example, the power output may be quoted with only one channel or two channels driven (not all channels), giving a higher maximum figure.
• Be aware that the A14 MKII is capable of high power levels, in excess of 80 (8-ohm) / 150 (4-ohm) watts respectively per channel. Make sure that your speakers can handle the power of the amplifier. If in doubt about your speakers, ask your Crutchfield advisor.

Balanced Design Concept: Balanced Design Concept is the essential Rotel design philosophy that revolves around three major areas - Parts selection, circuit topology, and critical evaluation. These aspects influence final sound quality significantly and illustrate the holistic Balanced Design Concept approach to Rotel's product development. Thanks to the Balanced Design Concept, Rotel components easily exceed the performance of many mass produced audio products that offer plenty of features but skimp on audio quality, and compare favorably to components that are many times the price. Rotel continues its pursuit of extraordinary audio performance, which elevates the home entertainment experience through their core values of sonic accuracy, reliability, and affordability.

• Parts Selection: Rotel engineers select premium capacitors which provide better performance across both power and frequency spectrums to produce a more accurate and musical reproduction of the audio signal. High quality power supply capacitors provide a more efficient transfer of energy with fast charging and discharge time to ensure the circuits have the reserve power when needed. At each stage of development, Rotel engineers listen to circuit prototypes and revise the design when they feel they can gain a sonic advantage by using a particular component from another manufacturer or by specifying tighter tolerances. Since Rotel is an independent manufacturer, they are free to source parts from highly respected suppliers around the world to fit their requirements.
• Circuit Topology: It’s not enough to simply use good parts. Where you put them is equally if not more important. That's why Rotel keeps their circuit paths as short as possible, so there's less chance that spurious emissions and unwanted leakages will corrupt delicate signal nuances. That's also why Rotel often uses more expensive "on-board" relay source switching, rather than routing a signal from a rear-panel input to a front-panel control. Rotel also relies heavily on something called Symmetrical Signal Trace design. This keeps each channel's signal path identical to the others to preserve the imaging and soundstage. Rotel also uses electrically superior "star" grounding techniques to improve performance because star grounding routes all ground connections to a single point to reduce potential loops that might introduce noise or produce hum. Further, Rotel's Class AB amplifiers don’t use output inductors because they decrease control and, consequently, sound quality.
• Critical Evaluation: Rotel's development team places a lot of importance on critical listening sessions before the final product is sent to market. Rotel electronic and acoustic engineers, both in the UK and Asia, have honed their aural acuity over the course of decades of collective experience to evaluate each stage of product development from working samples, through pre-production and, finally, to verify that final production is the same as the pre-production units. Some sessions evaluate different circuit elements: capacitors, resistors, and active devices such as transistors or operational amplifiers. Others focus on differences in circuit layouts or differences caused by power supply elements. Only after this tuning process is complete with sonic performance confirmed will the product be launched to the market. 

Custom Designed Toroidal Transformer: The A14 MKII stereo integrated amplifier has a highly regulated power supply incorporating Rotel's custom-designed toroidal power transformer. This low impedance power supply has ample power reserves, which enables the amplifier to easily reproduce the most demanding audio signals. Rotel manufactures its own toroidal transformers in-house to high tolerances using raw materials selected from proven, trusted suppliers. The result is a rugged power supply that won't easily distort the music under dynamic conditions or with difficult speaker loads.

Symmetrical Circuit Traces: The integrated amplifier's printed circuit boards (PCB) are designed with Symmetrical Circuit Traces. This ensures that the precise timing of the music is maintained and faithfully recreated. The circuitry uses metal film resistors and polystyrene or polypropylene capacitors in important signal paths. All aspects of this design have been examined to ensure the most faithful music reproduction.

Texas Instruments (TI) 32-bit/384kHz DAC: A fully redesigned digital-to-analog circuit topology utilizes a Texas Instruments (TI) 32-bit/384kHz DAC with exhaustive tuning and hand selection of all critical components delivering a fuller, richer and more balanced presentation of the music. The DAC supports 2ch PCM and MQA audio files up to 32-bit/384kHz.

MQA (Master Quality Authenticated): MQA (Master Quality Authenticated) is a revolutionary end-to-end technology that captures and delivers master quality audio in a file that's small enough to download and stream. MQA ensures the your will hear your favorite digital audio music soundtracks exactly the way the artist intended you to hear it when it was approved in the studio. Support for MQA requires USB Audio Class 2.0 via USB-B. USB Audio Class 2.0 requires installation of the Windows PC driver on the included USB thumbdrive. MAC computers do not require a driver to support PC-USB Audio Class 1.0 or 2.0.

Roon Tested: The A14 MKII is certified as Roon Tested and compatible with software via the integrated amp's USB-B port when connected to a compatible Windows or Mac computer. Being  Roon Tested means that Rotel and Roon have collaborated to ensure you have the best experience using Roon software and the A14 MKII together, so you can just enjoy the music. For the best user experience it is suggested to use USB Audio Class 2.0 when using Roon. USB Audio Class 2.0 requires installation of the Windows PC driver on the included USB thumbdrive. MAC computers do not require a driver to support PC-USB Audio Class 1.0 or 2.0.

Protection Circuitry: The integrated amp has both thermal and over-current protection circuitry that protects the amplifier against damage in the event of extreme or faulty operating conditions. The protection circuits are independent of the audio signal and have no impact on sonic performance. Instead, the protection circuits monitor the temperature of the output devices and shut down the amplifier if temperatures exceed safe limits.

Note: In most cases, the protection circuitry activates because of a fault condition such as shorted speaker wires, or inadequate ventilation leading to an overheating condition. In very rare cases, highly reactive or extremely low impedance speaker loads could cause the protection circuit to engage.

Mounting & Placement Options: The Rotel A14 MKII integrated amp can simply be tabletop mounted (no rack-mount hardware available).

• The A14 MKII generates heat as part of its normal operation. The heat sinks and ventilation openings in the amplifier are designed to dissipate this heat. The ventilation slots in the top cover must be open. There should be at least 4" of clearance around the chassis, and reasonable airflow through the installation location, to prevent the amplifier from overheating.
• Make sure that the shelf or cabinet can support the weight of the amplifier. The amplifier should be installed in or on furniture designed specifically for audio components. Such furniture is designed to reduce or suppress vibration which can adversely affect sound quality. Ask your Crutchfield advisor for advice about component furniture.

Note: The A14 MKII's heatsinks provide adequate cooling for most installations. However, when installing the amplifier in a confined space or near other heat-generating components, additional cooling may be desirable. See Accessories Tab for cooling fan options (sold separately).

Connections

Bluetooth Audio Streaming w/ aptX: Thanks to built-in Bluetooth, you can wirelessly stream stored music libraries, music apps, and other audio content from your Bluetooth-enabled smartphone, tablet, laptop, or desktop computer to the Rotel A14 MKII integrated amplifier. In addition to Bluetooth's standard SBC codec and Apple's AAC codec, the A14 MKII supports Qualcomm's aptX audio technology. aptX delivers "CD-quality" audio (16-bit/44.1kHz) wirelessly over Bluetooth. Android, Windows 10 and Mac OS all support aptX (Apple iOS does not not support aptX).

Note: You'll still control search and playback functions, as well as view song/artist/information from your Bluetooth enabled source device (not the A14 MKII).

USB-A Ports: The A14 MKII integrated amplifier is equipped with two USB-A ports; one on the front-panel and one on the rear chassis.

• Front-Panel: The front-panel USB-A port can be connected to an Apple iOS device with Lightning (including iPod touch, iPhone & iPad) connector for music playback through the integrated amplifier. You'll still control search and playback functions, as well as view song/artist/information from your Apple iOS device (not the A14 MKII). The front-panel USB can also be used to charge your Apple iOS device and other smartphone or tablet devices; it is rated at 5V/2.1A.
• Rear-Panel: The rear-panel USB-A port does not support music playback and can only be used for charging a USB-enabled smartphone or tablet device. The rear-panel USB port is rated at 5V/0.5A.

Note: USB MSC (mass storage class) devices, such as USB thumbdrives and hard disk drives are not supported.

USB-B Port: The rear-panel USB-B port allows connection to your Windows PC or Mac computer, so you can playback your laptop or desktop music libraries through the A14 MKII integrated amp. The A14 MKII supports both USB Audio Class 1.0 and USB Audio Class 2.0 modes for playback of 2ch stereo PCM and MQA music files up to 32-bit/384kHz.

• USB Audio Class 1.0: USB Audio Class 1.0 supports playback of 2ch PCM audio up to 96kHz sampling rates (MQA not available). Windows PC and Mac do not require installation of a driver for USB Audio Class 1.0. The unit's factory default setting is USB Audio Class 1.0.
• USB Audio Class 2.0: USB Audio Class 2.0 supports playback of 2ch PCM and MQA audio up to 384kHz sampling rates. You will need to install a Windows USB Driver from Rotel's website onto your computer for a Windows PC connection. Mac computers will not require a a separate USB driver.

Note: You'll still control search and playback functions, as well as view song/artist/information from your your Windows PC or Mac computer (not the A14 MKII).

Analog Audio Inputs: The Rotel A14 MKII is outfitted with a total of five analog stereo RCA inputs, including one Phono input.

• Line-Level Inputs: There are four stereo RCA line-level inputs for connecting a CD player, tuner, and other external analog audio sources.
• Phono Input: There is one Phono input which supports the connection of a turntable with a MM (moving magnet) cartridge. There is also a ground terminal for the Phono input to prevent hum and noise.

Digital Audio Inputs: The A14 MKII is equipped with a total of four digital audio inputs; including two optical (toslink) digital inputs and two coaxial (RCA) digital inputs. All four digital inputs will support 2ch stereo PCM audio up to 24-bit/192kHz.

Note: The digital audio inputs do not support Dolby Digital, DTS, and other multichannel audio formats.

A & B Speaker Outputs: The integrated amplifier is outfitted two sets of speaker outputs (A & B) for connecting up to two pair of loudspeakers (a total of four speakers). The A & B speaker outputs consist of binding post terminals that will accept bare wire (up to 12AWG), pin-connectors, spade-lugs, and banana plugs (single or dual).

• If only one set of speakers will be used at any given time, the speakers may have an impedance as low as 4 ohms.
• If there are times when both the A and B speakers will be used at the same time, all the speakers should have an impedance of 8 ohms or more.

Stereo Preout: The Rotel A14 MKII has a set of stereo preamp outputs that allows you to output an audio signal to another integrated amplifier or power amplifier which is used to drive more speakers. Changes to the volume, balance, and tone controls of the A14 MKII will affect the signal to the preamp output.

Headphone Output: The front-panel headphone output allows you to connect a set of headphones for private listening. The headphone output consists of a 3.5mm (1/8") jack. Plugging in a set of headphones does not cut off the signal to the speakers. You'll need to manually turn off the speakers from the front-panel or remote control.

Detachable AC Power Cord: The detachable 58" AC power cord (IEC 2-prong) plugs into the back of the integrated amplifier and into an AC wall outlet or surge protector/line conditioner (sold separately - see Accessories Tab).

Controls

Front-Panel Display & Controls: The Rotel A14 MKII stereo integrated amplifier is equipped with a front-panel display and front-panel controls. The front-panel display shows the source selected, volume level, and tone settings. The display also provides access to the setup and configuration menu options of the amplifier. The front-panel display does not support song/artist/album information. Front-panel controls include Power, Source, Volume, Speakers A-B, and Menu.

IR Remote Control: The included IR remote control provides wireless operation over the A14 MKII stereo integrated amplifier. It can also operate a Rotel CD player (such as the CD14, sold separately).

Note: The play and search controls on the remote only operate a connected Rotel CD player. They do not support playback and search functions for USB-B, and Apple iOS, and Bluetooth devices.

Tone Controls: Bass & Treble circuits are bypassed at factory default to ensure the purest possible sound. You can choose to adjust the Bass & Treble to increase or decrease low and high frequency sounds. There is also a Balance control that adjust the left-to-right sound output of the connected speakers.

Rotel Link: The 3.5mm stereo minijack input/output (labeled "Rotel Link") can attach to Rotel network enabled products. This allows the attached Rotel products to communicate with each other and be controlled via the Rotel App (for Apple iOS 6.0+).

IR In: The IR input (3.5mm) receives command codes from industry-standard infrared receivers via a hard-wired connection. This feature is useful when the unit is installed in a cabinet and the front-panel sensor is blocked. Consult your your Crutchfield advisor for information on external IR repeater systems (sold separately - see Accessories Tab).

12V Trigger Outputs: The A14 MKII is equipped with two 12-volt trigger outputs (3.5mm) that can be connected to two different components with 12-volt trigger inputs, allowing the components to turn on automatically with the A14 MKII integrated amplifier.

RS232 Port: The Rotel A14 MKII integrated amplifier can be controlled via RS232 for integration with automation systems. The RS232 input accepts a standard straight DB-9 Male-to-Female cable.

Ethernet Port: The rear-panel Ethernet (RJ45) jack on the back of the integrated amp allows IP control for integrated with automation systems. The Ethernet jack also allows software updates to be downloaded from the internet.

Auto Power Modes: The Rotel A14 MKII integrated amp offers Auto Signal Sensing and Auto Standby for automatic on and off.

• Auto Signal Sensing: Thanks to Automatic Signal Sensing, the integrated turns on automatically when an audio signal is detected at one of its analog or digital inputs.
• Auto Standby: The A14 MKII can be configured to automatically power off if unused for a specified period (1, 2, 5, or 12 hours). If there is no audio signal or no control within the specified time period, the unit will automatically go into standby mode.