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The original Rotel RA-931 amplifier is already a recognized classic with great reviews, e.g.: http://www.tnt-audio.com/ampli/rotelra931_e.htmlHowever, the few Rotel’s shortcomings can indeed be improved and these amps can actually be further transformed from mid-level into a high-end spec amplifier by modern improved components and a bit of solid UK audio engineering.
If you want to review the long process, discussions and measurements that went into this transformation, please see: http://www.diyaudio.com/forums/solid-state/275171-improve-rotel-amp-thd-20db.htmlThis improved RA-931 is based on that work, employing the upgrades that makes the greatest difference and fully tested for performance and reliability. Care has also been taken to make the internal cosmetic appearance as nice as the outside. The amp is now a symphony in black and gold, see pics.
Some may recall that the Marantz PM-66SE was once improved by Ken Ishiwata into a “KI Signature” version, then selling at over 400 – twice the price of the standard version.
I here present the superior renewed “AngelP Signature” version for the Rotels – at a reasonable price – which covers the increasing direct cost of the donor amp, the 42 new upgrade components, actual updating work and testing time. It is definitely worth it, please see the spec comparisons below:
RotelRA-931 mkIIoriginalspecifications:
AngelPSignature:
PM-66KIsignaturePoweroutput into 8? (perchannel):30Watts (?*)50Watts50WattsFrequencyresponse (3dB):10Hz to 100 kHz3 Hz to 110 kHz5Hz to 70 kHzTotalharmonic distortion: <0.03%<0.004%<0.008%OutputDC offset voltage:<100 mVdc<3 mVdc?Signal to Noise Ratio:
95dB
105dB
97dBDimensions:440x 92 x 347mm440x 92 x 347mm439x 138 x 343mm?*) All Rotel RA-931’s are 50 Watt amplifiers. The modest 30W marketing spec just helped coin the phrase “giant slayer”. The AngelP specs are the actually measured.
Anyway, power output is not important, the audio quality is. The AngelP Signature version converts the standard RA-931 into an amplifier quality level that you otherwise would have to fork out several 1000’s for.
The hand made RA-931 AngelP Signature version upgrades give a faster, firmer, precisely balanced and much quieter and low harmonic distortion audio performance, leading to a significant audible increase in soundstage detail, openness and musicality. The phono (turntable) input circuit has been specially improved to provide the absolute best enjoyment of vinyl records. All old degrading capacitors have been replaced with much higher quality modern types, ensuring the working of the amp for many years to come.
But this upgrade goes far beyond a simple recap – it is more like a total racing engine rebuild as opposed to “upgrades” that are more like putting speed stripes on the bonnet.
Transistors have been replaced with closely matched low noise components, IC’s upgraded to professional audio types, audio path direct coupled (ie. no electrolytic caps) where possible, output offset removed, and proprietary Current Mirror and VAS modules employed to lower noise and distortion by a factor 10.
Further, the amp now includes a speaker protection circuit which also acts as “on” thump suppression.
I have by now transformed several Rotel’s for others with extremely encouraging feedback, and now I am in the process of updating the last two RA-931’s in my inventory for sale. They are in excellent cosmetic condition and will thus be “better than new” with the internal upgrades. Every amp has been thoroughly cleaned, updated, tested and measured and will carry AngelP markings, including replacing the bland red “power on” LED with a bespoke emerald green – in keeping with the trademark appearance of early Rotels.
Feedback from previous buyers:
Hi,Thought I would send you a note to complement you on the Angelp signature RotelI have been an audiophile since the seventies and have had many high end amps and receivers but I was blown away with every aspect of its musicality and sound stage.You have created a masterpiece in audio electronics and I thank you.
Hi Per, It’s James, have received the Rotel ra 930 AngelP amplifier and am now listening to Melanie Martinez cry baby album and WOW what a massive jump in sonic performance from my technics amp. You have truly transformed what was once a fabulous amp into a splendiferously spectacular work of art.
Hey Per,
Wow, mate just wow really! pure genius buddy, my deck is being unhelpful in balance but I am running Tidal on FLAC, oh the joy! what a unit and credit to your insight and ears! THANKS SO MUCH….
Billy
Hi Per, I’m absolutely delighted with my purchase. What a remarkable piece of audio engineering. The amp sounds wonderful with my Rogers 149 speakers.
Dear Per,keeping in touch to say that no gratitude words will ever congratulate for the excellent job of getting an AP Signature amplifier. please quote my comments anywhere you like, it’s a true privilege for me listening to your piece of art and sharing your great talent to bring a vintage appliance to express its hidden power!
So, if you share my passion for true music listening pleasure – this is your chance of getting an outstanding example of a limited edition of AngelP Signature Rotel amps at a token price.Please note that these amps now seem to sell rather quickly just through word of mouth, so this listing may not last the entire duration. Also, if the price of old donor amps (even scruffy, tired, non-working) keep increasing to silly levels, these could well be the last two of this series AngelP Signatures, as I believe that great audio should be affordable.
Like all my amplifiers it comes with a 30 days RTB repair guarantee or a no quibble return option if – for any reason – you should not like this great sounding improved classic amplifier, you just pay the safe return postage. And for the AngelP Signature series, I will extend the RTB repair guarantee to a full 1 year (knowing that you’ll not going to need it).
I can arrange a listening demonstration in Bishop’s Stortford, Herts, please send me a message first at Angelhorns.co.uk
Collection is free, postage is for mainland UK only, other buyers please contact me for shipping costs before buying.
PS. If you already own an old Rotel or other classic amp that you love and are considering whether it could be rejuvenated or upgraded, please send me a message (preferably with a few pictures) for a free review and quote.
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Category: Sound and Vision:Home Audio and HiFi Separates:Amplifiers and Pre-Amps
Location: Bishop’s Stortford