ROTEL RMB-1587MKII Seven Channel Power Amplifier Owner’s Manual
- June 13, 2024
- ROTEL
Table of Contents
- Important Safety Instructions
- Important Notes
- About Rotel
- A Word About Watts
- Getting Started
- A Few Precautions
- AC Power and Control
- Input Signal Connections 3
- Speaker Connection
- Cooling Fans
- Troubleshooting
- Specifications
- References
- Read User Manual Online (PDF format)
- Download This Manual (PDF format)
RMB-1587MKII Seven Channel Power Amplifier
Owner’s Manual RMB-1587MKII
Seven Channel Power Amplifier
Owner’s Manual
Important Safety Instructions
WARNING: There are no user serviceable parts inside. Refer all servicing
to qualified service personnel.
WARNING: To reduce the risk of fire or electric shock, do not expose the
unit to moisture or water. Do not expose the unit to dripping or splashing. Do
not place objects filled with liquids, such as vases, on the unit. Do not
allow foreign objects to get into the enclosure. If the unit is exposed to
moisture, or a foreign object gets into the enclosure, immediately disconnect
the power cord from the wall. Take the unit to a qualified service person for
inspection and necessary repairs.
Read these instructions.
Keep these instructions.
Heed all warnings.
Follow all instructions.
Do not use this apparatus near water.
Clean only with dry cloth.
Do not block any ventilation openings. Install in accordance with the
manufacturer’s instructions.
Do not install near any heat sources such as radiators, heat registers,
stoves, or other apparatus (including amplifiers) that produce heat.
Do not defeat the safety purpose of the polarized or grounding-type plug. A
polarized plug has two blades with one wider than the other. A grounding type
plug has two blades and a third grounding prong. The wide blade or the third
prong are provided for your safety. If the provided plug does not fit into
your outlet, consult an electrician for replacement of the obsolete outlet.
Protect the power cord from being walked on or pinched particularly at plugs,
convenience receptacles, and the point where they exit from the apparatus.
Only use attachments/accessories specified by the manufacturer.
** Use only with the cart, stand, tripod, bracket, or table specified by
the manufacturer, or sold with the apparatus. When a cart is used, use caution
when moving the cart/apparatus combination to avoid injury from tip-over.
Unplug this apparatus during lightning storms or when unused for long periods
of time.
Refer all servicing to qualified service personnel.
Servicing is required when the apparatus has been damaged in any way, such as
power supply cord or plug is damaged, liquid has been spilled or objects have
fallen into the apparatus, the apparatus has been exposed to rain or moisture,
does not operate normally, or has been dropped.
The apparatus should be used in non tropical climate.
The ventilation should not be impeded by covering the ventilation openings
with items, such as newspapers, table-cloths, curtains, etc. No naked flame
sources, such as lighted candles, should be placed on the apparatus.
Touching uninsulated terminals or wiring may result in an unpleasant
sensation.
You must allow a minimum 10 cm or 4 inches of unobstructed clearance around
the unit. WARNING: The rear panel power
cord connector is the mains power disconnect device. The device must be
located in an open area that allows access to the cord connector.
The unit must be connected to a power supply only of the type and voltage
specified on the rear panel. (USA: 120 V/60Hz, EC: 230V/50Hz) Connect the
component to the power outlet only with the supplied power supply cable or an
exact equivalent. Do not modify the supplied cable. Do not use extension
cords.
The mains plug is the disconnect of the unit. In order to completely
disconnect the unit from the supply mains, remove the main plug from the unit
and the AC power outlet. This is the only way to completely remove mains power
from the unit.
Use Class 2 wiring for speaker connections to ensure proper installation and
minimize the risk of electrical shock.
This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to
the following to conditions: (1) This device may not cause harmful
interference, and (2) this device must accept any interference received,
including interference that may cause undesired operation.
WARNING : SHOCK HAZARD-DO NOT OPEN
APPLICABLE FOR USA, CANADA OR WHERE APPROVED FOR THE USAGE
CAUTION: TO PREVENT ELECTRIC SHOCK, MATCH WIDE BLADE OF PLUG TO WIDE
SLOT. INSERT FULLY.
** This symbol is to alert the user to the presence of uninsulated
dangerous voltages inside the product’s enclosure that may constitute a risk
of electric shock.
**** This symbol is to alert the user to important operating and maintenance
(service) instructions in this manual and literature accompanying the product.
Rotel products are designed to comply with international directives on the
Restriction of Hazardous Substances (RoHS) in electrical and electronic
equipment and the disposal of Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment
(WEEE). The crossed wheelie bin symbol indicates compliance and that the
products must be appropriately recycled or processed in accordance with these
directives.
Pin Assignments
Balanced Audio (3 pole XLR):
Pin 1: Ground / Screen
Pin 2: In phase / +ve / Hot
** Pin 3: Out of phase / -ve/ Cold
Figure 1-1: Controls and Connections 1: Power Button and Power LED Indicator
Activate the unit or put it into standby mode.
Figure 1-2: Controls and Connections** 2: 12 Volt Trigger Connections
Send or receive a 12V trigger signal.
3: Input Signal Connections
Include RCA input and Balanced input connectors.
4: Fan Switch
Include Fan Off and Fan Auto.
5: Speaker Connectors
6: AC Power Inlet
Figure 2: Analog Inputs and Speaker Output Connections Figure 3: Balanced
(XLR) Inputs
Important Notes
When making connections be sure to:
Turn off all the components in the system before hooking up any components,
including loudspeakers.
Turn off all components in the system before changing any of the connections
to the system.
It is also recommended that you:
Turn the volume control of the amplifier all the way down before the amplifier
is turned on or off.
About Rotel
Our story began over 60 years ago. Over the decades, we have received hundreds
of awards for our products and satisfied hundreds of thousands of people who
take their entertainment seriously – like you!
Rotel was founded by a family whose passionate interest in music led them to
manufacture high-fidelity components of uncompromising quality. Through the
years, that passion has remained undiminished and the family goal of providing
exceptional value for audiophiles and music lovers, regardless of their
budget, is shared by all Rotel employees.
Rotel’s engineers work as a close team, listening to, and fine tuning, each
new product until it reaches their exacting musical standards. They are free
to choose components from around the world in order to make that product the
best they can. You are likely to find capacitors from the United Kingdom and
Germany, semiconductors from Japan or the United States, while toroidal power
transformers are manufactured in Rotel’s own factory.
We all have concerns about our environment. And, as more and more electronics
are produced it is especially important for a manufacturer to do all it can to
engineer products that have a minimum impact on the environment.
At Rotel, we are proud to do our part. We have reduced the lead content in our
products by using special lead-free ROHS solder and components.
Our engineers continually strive to improve power supply efficiency without
compromise to quality. When in standby mode Rotel products use minimal power
to meet global Standby Power Consumption requirements.
The Rotel factory is also doing their part to help the environment through
constant improvements to product assembly methods for a cleaner and greener
manufacturing processes.
All of us at Rotel thank you for buying this product. We are sure it will
bring you many years of enjoyment.
A Word About Watts
The RMB-1587MKII power output is quoted as 250 watts for each channel into 4
ohms, when seven channels are operating together at full power. Rotel has
chosen to specify the power output in this way because, in Rotel’s experience,
it gives the truest value of the receiver or amplifier’s power capability.
When comparing specifications for different products, you should be aware that
power output is often specified in other ways, so you may not be comparing
like with like.For example, the power output may be quoted with only one
channel operating, giving a higher maximum figure.
A loudspeaker’s impedance rating indicates the electrical resistance or load
it offers when connected to the amplifier, usually 8 ohms or 4 ohms. The lower
the impedance, the more power the speaker will need. In effect, a 4 ohm
speaker will require twice as much power as an 8 ohm speaker.
However, Rotel amplifiers are designed to work into any speaker impedance
between 8 and 4 ohms, and with all the channels working up to their full
power. Because the Rotel design is optimized for use with all channels
operating together, Rotel is able to specify the true power output for both
channels.
This can be important for your enjoyment, too. When watching movies, it’s nice
to have the amplifier able to reproduce full power into all the channels at
the same time, especially in the case of a volcano exploding!
Getting Started
Thank you for purchasing the Rotel RMB-1587MKII Seven Channel Power Amplifier.
When used in a high-quality music or home theater system, your Rotel product
will provide years of musical enjoyment.
The RMB-1587MKII is high-power amplifier, providing the highest level of audio
performance. Discrete output devices, a massive power supply, premium
components, and Rotel’s Balanced Design ensure superb sound quality. High
current capability allow the RMB-1587MKII to drive the most demanding
loudspeakers.
Be aware that the RMB-1587MKII is capable of high power levels, in excess of
250 watts respectively per channel. Make sure that your speakers can handle
the power of the amplifier. If in doubt about your speakers, ask your local
Rotel audio dealer for advice.
The amplifier is straightforward in the installation and operation. If you
have experience with other stereo power amplifiers, you shouldn’t find
anything perplexing. Simply plug in the associated components and enjoy.
A Few Precautions
WARNING: To avoid potential damage to your system, turn off ALL the
components in the system when connecting or disconnecting the loudspeakers or
any associated components. Do not turn the system components back on until you
are sure all the connections are correct and secure. Pay particular attention
to the speaker wires. There must be no loose strands that could contact the
other speaker wires, or the chassis of the amplifier.
Please read this manual carefully. In addition to installation and operating
instructions, it provides valuable information on various system
configurations as well as general information that will help you get optimum
performance from your system. Please contact your authorized Rotel dealer for
answers to any questions you might have. In addition, all of us at Rotel
welcome your questions and comments.
Save the shipping carton and all enclosed packing material for future use.
Shipping or moving the amplifier in anything other than the original packing
material may result in severe damage that is not covered by the warranty.
If included in the box please fill out and send in the owner`s registration
card. Also be sure to keep the original sales receipt. It is your best record
of the date of purchase, which you will need in the event warranty service is
required.
Placement
The RMB-1587MKII generate heat as part of its normal operation. The heat sinks
and ventilation openings in the amplifier are designed to dissipate this heat.
The ventilation holes in the top cover must be open.
There should be 10 cm (4 inches) of clearance around the chassis, and
reasonable airflow through the installation location, to prevent the amplifier
from overheating.
Remember the weight of the amplifier when you select an installation location.
Make sure that the shelf or cabinet can support it. We recommend installing
the unit in furniture designed to house audio components.
Such furniture is designed to reduce or suppress vibration which can adversely
affect sound quality. Ask your authorized Rotel dealer for advice about
component furniture and proper installation of audio components.
AC Power and Control
AC Power Input 66
Your amplifier is configured at the factory for the proper AC voltage in the
country where you purchased it, either 120 volts or 230 volts. The AC line
configuration is noted on a decal on the back panel.
NOTE: Should you move your amplifier to another country, it may be
possible to reconfigure it for use on a different line voltage. Do not attempt
to perform this conversion yourself. Opening the enclosure of the amplifier
exposes you to dangerous voltages. Consult a qualified service person or the
Rotel factory service department for information.
NOTE: Some products are intended for sale in more than one country and as
such are supplied with more than one AC cord. Please use only the cord
appropriate for your country/region.
Because of its high power rating, the amplifier can draw considerable current.
Therefore, it should be plugged directly into a wall outlet. The RMB-1587MKII
must be plugged into a 3-pin polarized outlet. Do not use an extension cord. A
heavy duty multi-tap power outlet strip may be used if it (and the wall
outlet) is rated to handle the current demanded by the amplifier and all the
other components connected to it.
Be sure the POWER SWITCH 1 on the front panel of the amplifier is turned off
(in the “out” position). Then, connect the supplied power cord to the Power
Connector 5 on the rear of the unit and the AC power outlet.
If you are going to be away from home for an extended period of time such as a
month-long vacation, it is a sensible precaution to unplug your amplifier (as
well as other audio and video components) while you are away.
Power Switch and Power Indicator 1
The power switch is located on the front panel of your amplifier. To turn the
amplifier on, push the switch in. The ring around the switch will light up,
indicating that the amplifier is turned on. To turn the amplifier off, ush the
button again and return it to the “out” position.
NOTE: Place the self adhesive ring over the light surrounding the Power
switch if the blue light is too bright.
12 Volt Trigger Input and Output 2
The jack labeled IN is for connecting the 3.5mm MONO Plug/Cable carrying a +12
volt trigger signal to turn the amplifier on and off. When the trigger is
connected to the IN the amplifier automatically uses the 12V trigger power
control function. This input accepts any control signal (AC or DC) ranging
from 3 volts to 30 volts.
The jack labeled OUT is for connecting another 3.5mm MONO plug/cable to
provide a 12V trigger signal to other components. The 12V output signal is
available whenever a +12 volt trigger signal is applied to the IN connector.
Protection Circuitry 1
The RMB-1587MKII feature thermal and over-current protection circuits that
protect against potential damage in the event of extreme or faulty operating
conditions. Unlike many designs, these protection circuits are independent of
the audio signal and have no impact on sonic performance.
Instead, the protection circuits monitors the temperature of the output
devices and the current they are handling and shuts down the amplifier if
operating conditions exceed safe limits.
Most likely, you will never see this protection circuitry in action. However,
should a faulty condition arise, the amplifier will stop playing and the Power
Indicator on the front panel will blink.
If this happens, turn the amplifier off, let it cool down for several minutes,
and attempt to identify and correct the problem. When you turn the amplifier
back on, the protection circuit will automatically reset and the Power
Indicator should light up, indicating that the amplifier is turned on normal.
In most cases, the protection circuitry activates because of a fault condition
such as shorted speaker wires, or inadequate ventilation leading to an
overheating condition. In very rare cases, highly reactive or extremely low
impedance speaker loads could cause the protection circuit to engage.
If the protection circuitry triggers repeatedly and you are unable to isolate
and correct the faulty condition, contact your authorized Rotel dealer for
assistance in troubleshooting.
Input Signal Connections 3
The RMB-1587MKII have conventional RCA type input connectors, the type found
on nearly all audio equipment. The RMB-1587MKII also includes Balanced input
connectors. Only one set of inputs should be connected. Never connected both
Balanced and RCA inputs at the same time.
NOTE: To prevent loud potentially damaging noises, make sure the
amplifier is turned off when you make any changes to the input signal
configuration.
Select high quality audio interconnect cables. Connect each of the outputs
from the preamplifier or signal processor to the corresponding input of the
amplifier.
Speaker Connection
Speaker Selection
We recommend using loudspeakers with a nominal impedance of 4 ohms or higher
with the RMB-1587MKII. You should exercise some caution in driving multiple
pairs of speakers in parallel configuration, because the effective impedance
the amplifier sees is cut in half. For example, when driving two pair of 8 ohm
speakers, the amplifier sees a 4 ohm load. When driving multiple speakers in
parallel, it is recommended that you select speakers with a nominal impedance
of 8 ohms or higher. Speaker impedance ratings are less than precise. In
practice, very few loudspeakers will present any problems for the RMB-
1587MKII. See your authorized
Rotel dealer if you have any questions.
Speaker Wire Selection
Use insulated two-conductor stranded wire to connect the amplifier to the
speakers. The size and quality of the wire can have an audible effect on the
performance of the system. Standard speaker wire will work, but can result in
lower output or diminished bass response, particularly over longer distances.
In general, heavier wire will improve the sound.
For best performance, you may want to consider special high-quality speaker
cables. Your authorized Rotel dealer can help in the selection of cables for
your system.
Polarity and Phasing
The polarity – the positive/negative orientation of the connections – for
every speaker and amplifier connection must be consistent so all the speakers
will be in phase. If the polarity of one connection is reversed, bass output
will be very weak and stereo imaging degraded. All wire is marked so you can
identify the two conductors. There may be ribs or a stripe on the insulation
of one conductor. The wire may have clear insulation with different color
conductors (copper and silver). There may be polarity indications printed on
the insulation. Identify the positive and negative conductors and be
consistent with every speaker and amplifier connection.
Speaker Connections 5
NOTE: The following text describes both binding post and plug-in
connections. DO NOT use both connection methods in combination to connect
multiple speakers.
Turn off all the components in the system before connecting the speakers. The
RMB-1587MKII have two color coded binding posts, two for each channel. These
connectors accept bare wire, connector lugs, or dual banana type connectors
(except in the European Community countries where their use is not permitted).
Route the wire from the amplifier to the speakers. Give yourself enough slack
so you can move the components to allow access to the speaker connectors.
If you are using dual banana plugs, connect them to the wires and then plug
into the backs of the binding posts. The thumbscrews of the binding posts
should be screwed in all the way (clockwise).
If you are using terminal lugs, connect them to the wires. If you are
attaching bare wires directly to the binding posts, separate the wire
conductors and strip the insulation from the end of each conductor. Be careful
not to cut into the wire strands. Unscrew (turn counterclockwise) the binding
post. Place the connector lug or wire around the binding post shaft. Turn the
binding post clockwise to clamp the connector lug or wire firmly in place.
NOTE: Be sure there are no loose wire strands that could touch adjacent
wires or connectors.
Cooling Fans
The Rotel RMB-1587MKII amplifier is equipped with four cooling fans to help
ventilate the internal components. The rear panel of the RMB1587MKII includes
a 2 position fan selection switch including Fan Off Fan Off and Fan Auto Fan
Auto. Please select the fan selection that best suits the installation and
cooling requirements.
NOTE: The RMB-1587MKII produces significant power and associated heat –
even with the cooling fans in use. Appropriate installation and ventilation is
required to ensure proper operation.
Troubleshooting
Most difficulties in audio systems are the result of incorrect connections, or
improper control settings. If you encounter problems, isolate the area of the
difficulty, check the control settings, determine the cause of the fault and
make the necessary changes. If you are unable to get sound from the amplifier,
refer to the suggestions for the following conditions:
Power Indicator Is Not Illuminated
No main power to the amplifier. Check the front panel power switch. Make sure
that it is set to the on position. Check AC power connections at the amplifier
and the AC outlet.
Fuse Replacement
If another electrical device works when plugged into the power outlet, but the
Power Indicator of the unit does not light when plugged into the same outlet
and the Power Switch is pushed in, it indicates that the internal power fuse
may have blown. If you believe this has happened, contact your authorized
Rotel dealer to get the fuse replaced.
No Sound
If the amplifier is getting AC power, but is producing no sound, check the
Protection indicator on the front panel. If it is lit, see below. If not,
check all of your connections and control settings on associated components.
Protection Indicator
The front panel POWER indicator is blinking when the amplifier protection
circuits have shut off the amplifier. Typically, this occurs only when the
ventilation openings are blocked, when there is faulty speaker wiring, or
after a period of extreme use. Turn off the system and wait for the amplifier
to cool. Then push the front panel power switch in and out to reset the
protection devices. If the problem is not corrected or reoccurs, there is a
problem with the system or the amplifier itself.
Specifications
Power Output (7ch driven, 8 ohms) | 155 watts / channel |
---|---|
Power Output (7ch driven, 4 ohms) | 250 watts / channel |
Power Output (2ch driven, 4 ohms) | 335 watts / channel |
Total Harmonic Distortion Intermodulation Distortion (60 Hz : 7 kHz, 4:1) | < |
0.03%
Frequency Response (+0dB, –0.3dB)| 10Hz – 100kHz
Damping Factor (1 kHz, 8 ohms)| 330
Input Impedance/Sensitivity| 12k Ohms / 1.61 volt
Unbalanced| 50k Ohms / 3.4 volt
Balanced| 26.6 dB
GainGain| 111 dB
Signal to Noise Ratio (A Weighting)| > 55 db
Power Requirement|
USA| 120 Volts, 60Hz
EC| 230 Volts, 50Hz
Power Consumption| 1400 Watts
BTUBTU (4 ohms, 1/8 power)| 4016 BTU / h
Dimensions (W X H X D)| 431 x 237 x 456 mm17 x 9 1/3 x 18 ins
Front Panel Height| 5U / 221mm / 8 3/4 ins
WeightWeight (net)| 37.6 kg / 82.9 lbs
All specifications are accurate at the time of printing.
Rotel reserves the right to make improvements without notice.
The Rotel logo is a registered trademark of The Rotel Co., Ltd. Tokyo, Japan.
The Rotel Co. Ltd.
Tachikawa Bldg. 1F.,
2-11-4, Nakane, Meguro-ku,
Tokyo, 152-0031
Japan
Email: sales@rotel.com
Rotel USA
11763 95th Avenue North
Maple Grove, MN 55369 USA
Phone: +1 510-843-4500
Rotel Canada
Kevro International
902 McKay Rd. Suite 4
Pickering, ON L1W 3X8
Canada
Phone: +1 905-428-2800
www.rotel.com