Embark on a sonic adventure with the Rotel RC-1590 MkII Stereo Preamplifier Review, where precision meets passion. As the pinnacle of Rotel’s 60-year legacy in high-fidelity sound, the RC-1590 MkII redefines audio performance with immaculate power rails and discerning attention to detail.

Design and Build Quality

At first glance, the RC-1590 MkII commands respect with its sleek aluminium fascia and robust chassis, machined to perfection. Measuring just 431 × 144 × 348 mm and weighing 10.1 kg, it strikes the ideal balance between sophistication and substance. Every control is engraved with precision, and the hefty rotary encoder delivers a tactile response that audiophiles will appreciate.

Audiophile-Grade Performance

Under the hood, hand-wound high-efficiency toroidal transformers provide rock-solid power with minimal noise, ensuring the preamplifier remains jitter-free even under demanding dynamic peaks. With a total harmonic distortion (THD) of <0.002% and an impressive S/N ratio of 117 dB on RCA inputs (115 dB on XLR), the RC-1590 MkII unveils every nuance—from delicate pianissimo passages to thunderous orchestral crescendos. Balanced XLR inputs and outputs further guarantee absolute signal integrity, eliminating crosstalk and preserving channel separation above 75 dB.

Connectivity and Compatibility

Your vinyl collection finds sanctuary via the dedicated Moving Magnet Phono input, preserving warmth and harmonic richness with a perfect 47 kΩ loading. For the digital connoisseur, aptX™ and AAC Bluetooth cater for lossless wireless streaming, while the onboard Texas Instruments 32-bit/384 kHz DAC ensures pixel-perfect digital-to-analogue conversion. The RC-1590 MkII also unfolds and renders MQA files natively and is certified Roon Tested for seamless integration with Roon’s immersive music experience.

Explore full specifications and additional imagery on the Rotel RC-1590 MkII Stereo Preamplifier product page.

Who Should Consider the RC-1590 MkII?

Whether you’re a vinyl purist, a digital devotee or a hybrid enthusiast, the RC-1590 MkII adapts effortlessly. Ideal for dedicated listening rooms, desktop systems and two-channel aficionados seeking transparent reproduction without compromise.

Pros and Cons

• Pros:
  • Stellar power supply with hand-wound toroidal transformer for ultra-low noise floor.
  • Premium TI 32-bit/384 kHz DAC, MQA unfolding and Roon Tested for high-res streaming.
  • Comprehensive input array: balanced XLR, phono MM, digital coax/optical, USB, aptX™ & AAC Bluetooth.
  • Separate analogue and digital paths maintain absolute signal purity.
  • Elegant aluminium finish and user-friendly front panel interface.
• Cons:
  • Premium feature set commands a higher price point, though represents outstanding value in its class.
  • Does not include a built-in moving coil phono stage (external MC preamp required for MC cartridges).

Elevate Your Listening Journey

The Rotel RC-1590 MkII Stereo Preamplifier is more than a component—it’s an invitation to rediscover your music library with absolute clarity and musicality. To learn how this exceptional preamplifier can transform your audio system, speak with our experts at The Audio Tailor. Call us on 1300 308 711 or email sales@theaudiotailor.com.au to curate your ultimate high-fidelity experience.