Consumers still desire entry-level integrated amplifiers? You might think that the popularity of wireless speakers makes that less likely in 2024, but there are still some great options that work rather well with a wide range of bookshelf loudspeakers. Rotel has introduced its least expensive integrated amplifier to its growing family of award-winning 14 series models. At only $449, the new Rotel A8 is a lower powered version of the A10MKII. Both are sized and look the same, providing analog only inputs with balance, bass, and treble controls across the front panel.
![Rotel A8 Integrated Amplifier Black Lifestyle](https://cdn.ecoustics.com/db0/wblob/17BA35E873D594/3568/46074/VpiRK591l-jXrWvuKoLq3Z245HCMzeUzefXRt60jfqs/rotel-a8-integrated-amplifier-black-lifestyle.jpg)
The Rotel A8 features 30-watts per channel (at 8 ohms) with a Class AB amplifier architecture paired with an in-house manufactured high current toroidal transformer. With a built-in moving magnet phono stage, users can connect a turntable, CD player, tuner, or auxiliary device. The included IR remote control provides seamless operation of power on/off, volume level and source selection.
![Rotel A8 Integrated Amplifier Black Front](https://cdn.ecoustics.com/db0/wblob/17BA35E873D594/3568/46072/bbxsKHQnuYr4bW3Mm32gNuzbUj6lG-JGEJj5OH5vb9g/rotel-a8-integrated-amplifier-black-front.jpg)
![Rotel A8 Integrated Amplifier Black Rear](https://cdn.ecoustics.com/db0/wblob/17BA35E873D594/3568/46071/kT84mvMalTXSbu1d4ZZhPuUKJWJHofTnJW9n9wj2MHU/rotel-a8-integrated-amplifier-rear.jpg)
For private listening, a 1/8” headphone jack is included. Rear panel 5-way speaker binding posts allow ultimate installation flexibility.
Rotel’s A8 leverages the company’s 60+ year heritage and experience in engineering and manufacturing high-performance, high-value audio components. Rotel claims the A8 delivers your music with deep controlled bass energy, an ultra-refined midrange with a highly detailed soundstage all expertly crafted into a slim 60mm chassis.
“Rotel continually invests in product innovations and the A8 was a challenge readily accepted by the engineering teams,” says Daren Orth, Rotel’s Chief Technology Officer. “The opportunity to develop a high-performance Integrated amplifier solution targeted at an entry-level price point, without compromise, stands as a testament to the dedication, passion, and commitment Rotel brings to music lovers everywhere.”
![Rotel A8 Integrated Amplifier Silver Front](https://cdn.ecoustics.com/db0/wblob/17BA35E873D594/3568/4606F/AajK2b9lePSSoT_89Z3HVd3JDzSqW1PjxpD_b69QrWM/rotel-a8-integrated-amplifier-internal-angle-left.jpg)
Specifications
ROTEL A8 | ROTEL A10MKII | |
MSRP | $449 | $599 |
Power Output | 30 watts / ch (8 ohms) | 50 watts / ch (8 ohms) |
40 watts / ch (4 ohms) | 60 watts / ch (4 ohms) | |
Total Harmonic Distortion (20 Hz – 20k Hz) | < 0.03% | < 0.03% |
Intermodulation Distortion (60 Hz : 7k Hz, 4:1) | < 0.03% | < 0.03% |
Frequency Response | ||
Phono Input | 20 Hz – 20k Hz, -0.5 dB, +0 dB | 20 Hz – 20k Hz, -0.5 dB, +0.3 dB |
Line Level Inputs | 10 Hz – 100k Hz, -0.5 dB, +0 dB | 10 Hz – 100k Hz, -0.5 dB, +0.05 dB |
Damping Factor (20 – 20,000 Hz, 8 ohms) | 80 | 120 |
Input Sensitivity / Impedance | ||
Phono input | 2.5 mV / 40k Ohms | 1.5 mV / 43k Ohms |
Line Level Inputs | 180 mV / 60k Ohms | 120 mV / 45k Ohms |
Input Overload | ||
Phono input | 50 mV | 50 mV |
Line Level Inputs | 4 V | 4 V |
Tone Controls – Bass / Treble | ± 6 dB at 100 Hz / 10k Hz | ± 6 dB at 100 Hz / 10k Hz |
Signal to Noise Ratio (IHF “A” weighted) | ||
Phono input | 80 dB | 85 dB |
Line Level Inputs | 90 dB | 90 dB |
Power Requirements | 120 V, 60 Hz 230 V, 50 Hz | 120 V, 60 Hz 230 V, 50 Hz |
Power Consumption | 110 Watts | 150 Watts |
Standby Power Consumption | < 0.5% | < 0.5% |
BTU (4 ohms, 1/8 power) | 340 BTU/h | 450 BTU/h |
Dimensions (WxHxD) | 430 x 73 x 347 mm | 430 x 73 x 347 mm |
17” x 2 7/8” x 13 5/8” | 17” x 2 7/8” x 13 5/8” | |
Net Weight | 5.8 kg (12.8 lbs.) | 6.6 kg (14.5 lbs.) |
Finish | Black or Silver | Black or Silver |
![Rotel A8 Integrated Amplifier Silver Top Angle](https://cdn.ecoustics.com/db0/wblob/17BA35E873D594/3568/46075/1OXKFc1_QLn2iagPcVEoQ7FIva4QSwIlsoQItl7vaak/rotel-a8-integrated-amplifier-silver-top-angle.jpg)
Initial Thoughts
With competition from Cambridge Audio’s AXA35 and NAD’s C 316BEE V2, we’ll need hands-on listening time to learn how its tonal character differs and which speaker pairings are a good fit. With only 30-watts of power, we suspect you’ll want efficient speakers, depending how loud you like to listen. However, for a casual listening space, the Rotel A8 may just be the right choice.
![Rotel A8 Integrated Amplifier Internal Rear Angle](https://cdn.ecoustics.com/db0/wblob/17BA35E873D594/3568/46070/QZQ6y8C63Vy51IcWBjFR8gyb3qnSTY1YB8f6P2jbS_s/rotel-a8-integrated-amplifier-internal-angle-back.jpg)
Price & Availability
Available in both stylish black and sophisticated silver variants, the Rotel A8 is expected to be available September 24, 2024 for $449 at Crutchfield. Other regions may get it sooner priced at €399 or £399.
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