Audio T Verdict
The Rotel RA-1572MKII is a powerful and extensively equipped integrated amplifier for listeners who need to connect both traditional hi-fi sources and modern digital equipment. Its Class AB output stage delivers 120 watts per channel into 8 ohms, with a maximum output of 200 watts per channel into 4 ohms, giving it considerably more driving ability than a typical entry-level integrated amplifier.
Rotel supports that output with an oversized toroidal transformer manufactured in-house and four high-efficiency T-Network slit-foil storage capacitors. This substantial power supply is designed to provide the amplifier with the current needed to control demanding loudspeakers while retaining the clarity and precision expected at lower listening levels.
Connectivity is another major strength. The RA-1572MKII includes balanced XLR and conventional RCA analogue inputs, an MM phono stage, optical and coaxial digital inputs, high-resolution PC-USB, Bluetooth and a front USB connection for supported Apple devices. Its Texas Instruments DAC supports PCM through PC-USB at up to 32-bit/384kHz when correctly configured, together with MQA decoding and Roon Tested compatibility.
The amplifier also provides two parallel mono subwoofer outputs, a variable stereo pre-output, A and B loudspeaker terminals, home-theatre bypass options and a range of control connections for custom installation. Ethernet is provided for software updates and IP control rather than music streaming, so services such as Spotify Connect, AirPlay and internet radio require a separate streamer.
For a system built around several analogue and digital sources, the RA-1572MKII offers an unusually complete combination of power, flexibility and upgrade potential. Careful loudspeaker matching and a proper demonstration are recommended, particularly if the system will use difficult speaker loads, separate power amplification, a subwoofer or a home-cinema processor.
Rotel RA-1572MKII Integrated Amplifier
The Rotel RA-1572MKII is a Class AB integrated amplifier rated at 120 watts per channel into 8 ohms. It combines substantial loudspeaker-driving ability with balanced and unbalanced analogue inputs, an MM phono stage, high-resolution digital conversion, Bluetooth and extensive system-control facilities.
It is designed to act as the central amplifier for a complete hi-fi system, accommodating sources such as a CD player, turntable, network streamer, television, computer and Bluetooth device. A variable pre-output and twin subwoofer outputs also allow the system to be expanded beyond a conventional amplifier and two-speaker arrangement.
120 Watts per Channel of Class AB Power
Rotel specifies continuous power at 120 watts per channel into 8 ohms, with maximum output reaching 200 watts per channel into 4 ohms. The additional output compared with smaller integrated amplifiers can be valuable when driving inefficient loudspeakers, filling a larger room or reproducing music with wide dynamic range.
Power ratings alone do not determine whether an amplifier and loudspeaker will work well together. Speaker sensitivity, impedance behaviour, room size and listening distance all affect the final result. An Audio T demonstration can help establish whether the RA-1572MKII provides the control and presentation required by a particular pair of loudspeakers.
Rotel Toroidal Transformer and Four Storage Capacitors
The power supply is built around an oversized toroidal transformer manufactured by Rotel. Toroidal transformers can provide high current while helping to reduce stray magnetic radiation within the amplifier.
Four low-ESR, high-efficiency T-Network slit-foil capacitors provide energy storage for the output stage. Rotel uses this configuration to support transient power delivery and maintain stable operation during demanding musical passages.
Texas Instruments 32-Bit DAC
Digital signals are converted by a Texas Instruments 32-bit/384kHz DAC. Rotel pairs the converter with selected components and tuned output filters rather than treating the DAC chip as a complete digital section on its own.
The amplifier provides two optical and two coaxial S/PDIF inputs for equipment such as CD transports, televisions, streamers and games consoles. These connections accept compatible PCM signals at up to 24-bit/192kHz.
Connecting a Television
The RA-1572MKII does not have HDMI ARC or eARC. A television can normally be connected through an optical digital output, but the television should be configured to send two-channel PCM rather than Dolby Digital, DTS or another multichannel format.
High-Resolution PC-USB Input
The rear USB Type-B connection allows a computer to use the RA-1572MKII as an external sound device. In USB Audio Class 1 mode, it supports PCM at up to 24-bit/96kHz. USB Audio Class 2 mode supports PCM at up to 32-bit/384kHz.
A compatible Rotel USB driver is required for USB Audio Class 2 operation with Windows computers. Compatible Mac computers do not normally require an additional driver. The computer and playback software must also be configured to send the required resolution.
The front USB Type-A connection serves a different purpose. It is intended for playback and charging with supported Apple iPhone, iPad and iPod devices. It is not specified as a general-purpose input for USB storage drives.
MQA and Roon Tested Operation
The RA-1572MKII can perform MQA and MQA Studio decoding through its PC-USB input when USB Audio Class 2 and the appropriate MQA or 24-bit mode are selected. MQA capability does not provide a built-in streaming service, so compatible source software and content are still required.
Roon Tested status means Roon has tested the amplifier’s USB compatibility and supplied settings information. It does not make the RA-1572MKII a Roon Ready network player. A computer, Roon server or suitable external network endpoint must feed the amplifier through a supported input.
Roon Tested, Not Roon Ready
The Ethernet connection cannot receive music from Roon or another network service. The RA-1572MKII can be used with Roon through its PC-USB input or through a separate Roon-compatible streamer connected to one of its analogue or digital inputs.
Balanced XLR and RCA Analogue Inputs
A balanced stereo XLR input is provided for a compatible source component. Balanced connections can offer practical noise-rejection benefits over longer cable runs, although they do not guarantee that every source will sound better than it does through RCA.
The amplifier also provides three stereo RCA line inputs labelled CD, Tuner and Aux. Only one connection type should be used from a source at a time, rather than connecting the same component through RCA and XLR simultaneously.
Built-In Moving-Magnet Phono Stage
A dedicated phono input allows a turntable fitted with a compatible moving-magnet cartridge to be connected directly. A grounding terminal is provided to help control hum when used with turntables that require a separate ground lead.
The internal input is designed for moving-magnet cartridges and is not specified for low-output moving-coil models. A suitable external phono stage will be required if the chosen cartridge is incompatible with the RA-1572MKII’s MM input.
Browse Audio T’s selection of turntables and record players, or ask your local store for cartridge and phono-stage matching advice.
aptX and AAC Bluetooth
Built-in Bluetooth provides convenient wireless playback from compatible phones, tablets and computers. The RA-1572MKII supports conventional Bluetooth audio together with AAC and Qualcomm aptX.
Bluetooth is useful for casual listening and visiting devices, but it is not the amplifier’s only route to digital audio. A wired digital source or dedicated network streamer may provide greater flexibility and access to higher-resolution playback.
Two Mono Subwoofer Outputs
Two RCA subwoofer outputs are provided for connecting one or two active subwoofers. These outputs carry the same summed mono signal rather than separate stereo or independently controlled subwoofer channels.
The RA-1572MKII does not provide an adjustable crossover or full bass-management system. The main loudspeakers continue to receive their normal full-range signal, so crossover frequency, level and phase should be adjusted using the controls on each subwoofer.
Variable Stereo Pre-Output
A stereo pre-output allows the RA-1572MKII to feed a separate power amplifier, active loudspeaker system or other compatible component. Its level follows the amplifier’s volume control and is also affected by the applicable tone and balance settings.
This provides an upgrade route for systems that may later require additional power, although correct gain matching should be considered when selecting an external power amplifier.
Speaker A and B Connections
Two sets of five-way binding posts allow A and B loudspeaker pairs to be connected and selected from the front panel or remote control. Both pairs reproduce the same selected source at the same volume; they are not independent listening zones.
When only one loudspeaker pair is used, Rotel permits speakers with a nominal impedance as low as 4 ohms. If A and B are used simultaneously, every connected loudspeaker should have a nominal impedance of at least 8 ohms.
Check Speaker Impedance Before Using A and B
Using two low-impedance speaker pairs together can place an excessive load on the amplifier. Ask Audio T to confirm compatibility before operating both sets of outputs simultaneously.
Headphone Listening
A 3.5mm headphone socket is located on the front panel. Connecting headphones does not automatically mute the loudspeaker outputs, so Speaker A and Speaker B should be switched off manually when private listening is required.
Home-Theatre Bypass
The Aux RCA or balanced XLR input can be configured for home-theatre bypass. In this mode, the connected surround processor controls the listening level, allowing the RA-1572MKII to power the front left and right loudspeakers within a home-cinema system.
The bypass level can be configured within the amplifier’s setup menu. Connections and settings should be checked carefully before use because an incorrectly configured fixed-level or bypass input can produce unexpectedly high volume.
12V Bypass Activation Varies by Hardware Version
Rotel’s current manual notes that not every RA-1572MKII hardware version provides the rear 12V trigger input used for automatic bypass activation. Check the labels on the individual amplifier or ask Audio T to confirm which connections are fitted.
Ethernet, RS232 and System Control
The rear Ethernet connection supports software updates and IP-based control. It is not a network music input and does not add AirPlay, Chromecast, Spotify Connect, internet radio or UPnP playback.
RS232, external remote and 12V trigger connections support integration with compatible control systems and other equipment. Two trigger outputs can switch suitable connected components on and off with the amplifier, subject to their own trigger requirements.
Tone, Balance and Display Controls
Bass and treble can be adjusted through a range of -10 to +10, while a tone-bypass setting removes these adjustments when a direct response is preferred. Balance can be adjusted from L15 to R15.
The front display and indicator brightness can also be changed to suit the room. The supplied RR-AX93 remote provides access to normal playback and setup functions without requiring the front-panel controls.
Protection and Installation
Thermal and overcurrent protection help guard the amplifier against unsafe operating conditions. Protection being triggered repeatedly can indicate inadequate ventilation, unsuitable loudspeaker impedance, damaged speaker wiring or another system fault.
The RA-1572MKII should be placed on a stable surface with sufficient clearance for ventilation. Its top and side openings must not be covered, and it should not be enclosed in a cabinet that traps heat.
RA-1572MKII or A14MKII?
The Rotel A14MKII is a more compact 80-watt integrated amplifier with many useful analogue and digital connections. The RA-1572MKII increases the rated output to 120 watts per channel and adds a balanced XLR input, twin mono subwoofer outputs and a more substantial power-supply arrangement.
The best choice will depend on loudspeaker requirements, room size, source connections and listening level rather than power alone. Audio T can demonstrate suitable alternatives and help determine whether the additional facilities of the RA-1572MKII will be worthwhile in the complete system.
Explore more Rotel hi-fi products and stereo amplifiers available from Audio T.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Rotel RA-1572MKII still a current model?
Yes. Rotel currently lists the RA-1572MKII within its active integrated-amplifier range and continues to provide manuals, software and control documentation.
Is the RA-1572MKII the same as the original RA-1572?
No. The RA-1572 is the earlier model. This page covers the later RA-1572MKII, and compatibility or software information should be checked against the complete model name.
How powerful is the Rotel RA-1572MKII?
Rotel rates it at 120 watts per channel continuously into 8 ohms, with maximum output of 200 watts per channel into 4 ohms.
Does it have balanced XLR inputs?
Yes. It has one stereo balanced XLR input as well as three stereo RCA line inputs.
Does the RA-1572MKII have a phono input?
Yes. It includes a moving-magnet phono input and turntable grounding terminal.
Can it be used with a moving-coil cartridge?
The built-in phono stage is specified for moving-magnet cartridges. A compatible external phono stage will normally be required for a low-output moving-coil cartridge.
Does the RA-1572MKII have Bluetooth?
Yes. It supports conventional Bluetooth audio together with AAC and Qualcomm aptX. Rotel does not specify aptX HD for this model.
Is the RA-1572MKII a music streamer?
No. Its Ethernet port is for software updates and IP control. Music streaming services require a computer, Bluetooth device or separate streamer connected to a suitable input.
Is it Roon Ready?
No. It is Roon Tested for USB operation, not Roon Ready as a standalone network endpoint. A computer or compatible external Roon endpoint is required.
What resolution does the PC-USB input support?
USB Audio Class 1 supports PCM up to 24-bit/96kHz. USB Audio Class 2 supports PCM up to 32-bit/384kHz when the computer, driver and amplifier are configured correctly.
Does the RA-1572MKII support MQA?
Yes. It can decode MQA and MQA Studio through its PC-USB input when the appropriate USB and MQA settings are selected.
Can I connect a television?
Yes. A television with an optical digital output can normally be connected, but it should be configured to output two-channel PCM.
Does it have HDMI ARC or eARC?
No. The RA-1572MKII does not include an HDMI connection. Use a compatible optical, coaxial or analogue output from the television or source equipment.
How many subwoofers can be connected?
It provides two parallel mono RCA subwoofer outputs, allowing one or two compatible active subwoofers to be connected.
Does it provide bass management?
No adjustable crossover or full bass-management system is specified. Crossover, level and phase should be set using the controls on the active subwoofer.
Can Speaker A and Speaker B be used together?
Yes, but every connected loudspeaker should have a nominal impedance of at least 8 ohms when both pairs are active. The two pairs share the same source and volume setting.
Does connecting headphones mute the speakers?
No. Speaker A and Speaker B should be switched off manually when listening through headphones.
Can it be used with a home-cinema processor?
Yes. The Aux RCA or balanced XLR input can be configured for home-theatre bypass, allowing a surround processor to control the front-channel volume.
Is a remote control included?
Yes. Rotel supplies the RA-1572MKII with its RR-AX93 remote control.
Which finishes are available?
Rotel lists black and silver finishes. Current availability should be checked before ordering.
Can Audio T help match the amplifier to my speakers?
Yes. Your local Audio T store can advise on loudspeaker impedance and sensitivity, source connections, subwoofer integration, system control and suitable cables.
Why Buy from Audio T?
The RA-1572MKII provides extensive connection and configuration options, but careful loudspeaker matching and setup are still important if the amplifier is to perform at its best.
- Independent advice from experienced hi-fi specialists
- In-store demonstrations with suitable loudspeakers and source equipment
- Help comparing the RA-1572MKII with other Rotel amplifiers
- Advice on balanced XLR, RCA, optical, coaxial and USB connections
- Turntable cartridge and phono-stage matching
- Subwoofer integration and placement guidance
- Home-cinema bypass and system-control advice
- Part-exchange options for suitable existing equipment
- Home demonstration options where available
- Ongoing support from your local Audio T store
Find your nearest Audio T store to discuss the Rotel RA-1572MKII, arrange a demonstration or get help matching it to your system.