Featured item
Rotel RC-1572
Amongst audiophiles, it has long been known that the ultimate system is comprised of separate components. Separate components hold the promise of the best possible fidelity, since each device is optimized for its role in the sound reproduction chain. The heart of this type of system is most definitely the pre-amplifier.
The Rotel RC-1572 stereo preamplifier is a great example of quality construction, sensible features, and an attractive price.
As a digital pre-amp, the RC-1572 uses a 32 bit/768kHz AKM stereo digital-to-analog converter to handle critical signal conversion. For analog signals, it utilizes relay switching instead of an IC based switch to maintain the integrity of the signal path for its RCA, phono and XLR inputs.
A large toroidal transformer and regulated power supply ensures stable current and voltage requirements to all stages.
Four digital inputs (2 coax and 2 optical), plus the rear PC-USB handle digital sources up to 32-bit/384kHz resolution. The PC-USB input also supports DSD signals, for all you hi-res fans out there.
XLR and single ended outputs are provided along with a mono subwoofer output, simplifying the integration of a sub.
Offering tremendous ‘bang for the buck’, the Rotel RC-1572 is available in a black or silver finish for just $1099. Stop by and check it out!
Flash sale: Sealed version in black available to newsletter readers only, for just $999 - only one available, though! First come, first served!
Tips & techniques
TV Contrast
There is quite a bit to properly calibrating a video monitor, and very little can be done without at least some training and the right equipment and test discs.
However, we do like to provide the occasional tip that might get you a better picture. The last newsletter featured the sharpness control - this time we talk about the contrast control.
The contrast control is a powerful tool and can make or break a good picture on a TV set. What the control does is manage the range from complete black to complete white. As you turn up the contrast control, the set will expand the range. However, some sets will only move the range up or down – it all depends on the design.
The goal is to be able to see details in dark scenes, as well as bright ones. If the contrast is turned up too high, the whites will get ‘blown out’ and the dark scenes will be ‘crushed’. Both terms mean loss of detail in the extremes.
Usually, sets have the contrast turned up all the way when you first get them home, but this usually leads to an inaccurate picture. Generally, if you set the control so that it’s around 60 to 70% of the range, you will have a much clearer picture with less distortion.
Also, remember that Harmony calibrates every HDTV that we sell – at no extra cost! The easiest way to a great TV picture is to make sure you purchase your next set from Harmony!
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