1976 ROTEL RX-1603 MONSTER RECEIVER

Featuring 180w/ch RMS Power Amplifier

The 1976 Rotel RX-1603 Receiver, retailed for $1,100.00  and had the distinction of being the most powerful "all in one" Monster Receiver when it was first introduced IN1976 (180w/ch RMS x 2). And, it was the most powerful Receiver ever made by Rotel. But, it should not come as a surprise since in 1976 Rotel also introduced the INCREDIBLE RB-5000 Power Amplifier rated at an INCREDIBLE 500 w/ch RMS x 2. (The RB-5000 and matching RC-5000 Pre-Amplifier are shown on the bottom right.)

The RX-1603 was of completely conventional design electronically, although the cabinet was designed to separate the front from the rear (tuner/pre-amp & amp.) because it was extraordinarily deep. Inside is a huge "Rotel" Toroidal power transformer with two filter caps the size of coffee cans. The front handles were not just for show, either. Given its bulk, and weighing in at approximately 75 lbs., it was very difficult to move around without the handles.

I've listened to the RX-1603 a fairly regular basis and the sound is full and rich in detail. My speakers are not particularly sophisticated (yet) so the more esoteric elements of its performance I am not worthy to evaluate. It seems to be SIGNIFICANTLY more powerful that the Pioneer SX-1280, even though the rated power output is about the same. I read somewhere on the Net that the RX-1603 actually specs out a around 250w/ch RMS, but I have not confirmed this. Next time I take it in for service, I'll ask by Tech to benchtest it so say for sure.

Double click the thumbnails for the "big picture":

Left Side	Center	Right Side

Written by Chris Opfell