Emotiva Audio RSP-1 Stereo Pre-Amplfier Review

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Emotiva RSP-1 Pre-Amplfier

Emotiva RSP-1 Pre-Amplfier

Summary

  • Product Name: RSP-1 Stereo Pre-Amplfier
  • Manufacturer: Emotiva Audio
  • Performance Rating: StarStarStarStarStar
  • Value Rating: StarStarStarStarStar
  • Review Date: August 31, 2007 08:52
  • MSRP: $ 699
Specifications
  • Precision low noise phono input with moving magnet or moving coil capability
  • Five stereo inputs with precision instrumentation grade relay switching
  • Microprocessor controlled pure analog signal path
  • VFD display for all inputs and functions
  • Full remote control operation
  • Completely integrated bass manager for 2.1 operation with selectable frequency stereo high pass and mono low pass outputs
  • Independent full range outputs (available simultaneously with 2.1 output)
  • Tiffany style machined and gold plated discrete RCA connectors for all inputs and outputs
  • All outputs, stereo and 2.1, are also available on balanced XLR connectors (standard)
  • Tape monitor loop
  • External processor loop
  • Source Direct bypass
  • Stereo / Mono switching
  • Treble and bass trim controls
  • Large format Alps precision film volume potentiometer with motorized control
  • Headphone output
  • Illuminated input indicators
  • Panel dimmer
  • Milled multi-element floating wing faceplate with indirect cobalt blue illumination.
  • Infrared input and output connectors
  • 12V trigger output
  • High quality machined aluminum remote control with discrete tact switches
  • IEC power inlet

Pros

  • Price
  • Performance
  • Looks

Cons

  • Nothing significant

Introduction

Emotiva's RSP-1 is a 2-channel pre-amplifier that operates almost solely in the analogue domain. You won't find any digital audio inputs, video inputs or outputs, and you won't have to worry about what version HDMI you have. For all of you true audiophiles that are only interested in 2-channel, this is the unit for you. The RSP-1 performs exactly as promised. Considering the low price of the Reference Audio Series, Emotiva has taken the dedicated high end 2-channel rig out of the hands of the ultra-rich and placed it squarely within reach of most enthusiasts. It looks audiophile, it sounds audiophile, it just doesn't cost audiophile.

 

 

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metalisrael posts on June 16, 2008 04:44
does anyone else have any actual experience with this?

Metal Israel @ Jemsite [jemsite.com]
Da Boss @ Metal Israel [metalisrael.com]
davidtwotrees posts on September 02, 2007 20:37
Excellent review. Not a product I am in the market for, but your article was spot on. I love how you Audioholics always mention that you won't be going into ecstatic audiophool drool like "choclatly midrange" or "liquid highs"....especially from a preamp. And Emotiva really seems to be putting out a solid product for insanely affodable prices.
I am, (yes I know, I know:eek a subscriber to Stereophile, and the Emotiva ads look out of place when they have the MSRP at the bottom of the page.

So once again, good work, well written and informative without the flowery audiophoolia or the EE tecnobabble.
mike c posts on August 31, 2007 21:06
now I'm very curious what's behind the 'aux 2' sticker in the back.
Kitsum posts on August 31, 2007 12:00
Are all the buttons-knobs plastic or aluminum?
amp74 posts on August 31, 2007 08:52
And havent looked back. got the combo pre and power amps.
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