This document is the owner's manual for the Rotel RC-980BX Stereo Control Amplifier. It provides instructions for safe operation, connection, usage, and maintenance, along with technical specifications.
Function Description:
The Rotel RC-980BX is a stereo control amplifier designed to manage audio signals from various sources and prepare them for output to a power amplifier. It acts as the central hub for an audio system, allowing users to select input sources, control volume, and route signals for recording. A key feature is its built-in MC head amplifier, which enables compatibility with both Moving Magnet (MM) and Moving Coil (MC) phono cartridges. The unit offers two sets of parallel output terminals (OUTPUT 1, OUTPUT 2), which can be used to connect to a single power amplifier or to facilitate bi-amp speaker systems by sending signals to separate lower and higher frequency range power amplifiers. The recording selector allows users to choose which input signal is sent to a tape deck for recording, while the listening selector determines which source is heard through the speakers. The unit also includes a headphone jack for private listening, with volume adjustable via the main volume control.
Important Technical Specifications:
- Total Harmonic Distortion: No more than 0.004% (CD/TUNER, 20 to 20,000 Hz)
- Intermodulation Distortion: No more than 0.004% (CD/TUNER, 60 Hz: 7 kHz = 4:1)
- Output: Headphone 8-2 kohms
- Input Sensitivity/Impedance:
- PHONO (MM): 2.5 mV/47 kohms
- PHONO (MC): 250 µV/100 ohms
- CD, TUNER, TAPE 1/2, AUX: 150 mV/34 kohms
- Output Sensitivity/Impedance: 1.0 V/100 ohms
- Overload Level (THD 0.5%, 1 kHz):
- PHONO (MM): 160 mV
- PHONO (MC): 16 mV
- CD, TUNER, TAPE 1/2, AUX: 5V
- Frequency Response:
- PHONO: 20 to 20,000 Hz, ±0.2 dB (RIAA STD)
- CD, TUNER, TAPE 1/2, AUX: 4 to 100,000 Hz, +0.5 dB, -3 dB
- Signal-to-Noise Ratio (IHF A network):
- PHONO (MM): 75 dB
- PHONO (MC): 70 dB
- CD, TUNER, TAPE 1/2, AUX: 100 dB
- Power Requirement: 120 V/60 Hz, 220 V/50 Hz, 240 V/50 Hz, 100 V/50 Hz-60 Hz (depending on destinations)
- Power Consumption: 10 watts
- Dimensions (overall): 440 (W) x 70 (H) x 325 (D) mm (17-5/16" x 2-3/4" x 17-13/16")
- Weight (net): 4.1 kg/9.02 lbs.
- AC Outlets (U.S.A., Canada, Hong Kong, Southeast Asia models): Two switched outlets, 400 watts maximum rating. Not for power amplifiers.
Usage Features:
- Power Control: A single button for turning the unit on and off, indicated by a glowing power indicator.
- Volume Control: A dual concentric knob allows for separate or combined adjustment of both stereo channels.
- Input Selection: The Listening Selector allows users to choose between PHONO (MM/MC), TUNER, CD, AUX, TAPE 1, and TAPE 2 inputs.
- Phono MM/MC Selector: A switch on the rear panel to select the appropriate gain for either Moving Magnet (MM) or Moving Coil (MC) phono cartridges. Users are advised to turn down the volume and power off the unit before using this switch.
- Recording Functionality: The Recording Selector allows users to select the source to be recorded onto a connected tape deck (TAPE 1 or TAPE 2). It also supports tape-to-tape dubbing from TAPE 1 to TAPE 2. When recording, the level of signals output through TAPE OUT is fixed, bypassing the volume control.
- Headphone Output: A headphone jack is provided for private listening, with volume controlled by the main volume knob. The unit's design prioritizes sound quality, so there is no separate switch to cut off speaker output when headphones are connected; users must turn off the power amplifier or unplug its cables.
- AC Outlets (Specific Regions): For models sold in the U.S.A., Canada, Hong Kong, and Southeast Asia, the rear panel includes two switched AC outlets for powering other audio components (e.g., turntable, CD player, tuner, cassette deck) with a maximum rating of 400 watts. These outlets are not suitable for power amplifiers.
Maintenance Features:
- Cleaning: The manual recommends cleaning the unit only with a soft, dry cloth. Harsh chemicals like benzine or thinners should not be used.
- Installation Guidelines: The unit should be placed on a level, flat surface, free from humidity, vibration, and high temperatures, and not exposed to direct sunlight. Adequate ventilation is crucial, so avoid placing it in highly enclosed spaces like bookshelves.
- Moving the Unit: Before moving, disconnect the AC cord from the wall outlet and all other connected cords from the rear panel to prevent wire breakage and short circuits.
- Troubleshooting Hum and Noise: The manual provides guidance on identifying and resolving hum or noise issues, suggesting checks for cable connections, component placement (especially turntables away from speakers), and external interference from fluorescent lamps or motor-driven appliances.
- Safety Instructions: Emphasizes not opening the cabinet to avoid electric shock and referring all servicing to qualified personnel. It also warns against exposing the appliance to rain or moisture.
- Power Cord Protection: Cords should be routed to prevent them from being walked on or pinched.
- Nonuse Periods: Unplug the power cord from the outlet if the appliance will be left unused for a long period.
- Damage Requiring Service: The manual lists specific conditions that necessitate service by qualified personnel, such as damaged power cords, liquid spills, exposure to rain, abnormal operation, or physical damage.
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