Rotel RA-06

Fluid, driving sound ; admirable specification

Can’t deliver the full details ; relatively thick and monotonal at the low end

The upgrades are all worthwhile, but the upgraded price undermines the Rotel a little

Even tonal balance ; delves deep in the bass ; enjoyable midrange

Lacks the drive, dynamics and punch of the class leaders

Rotel’s RA-03 replacement is fine, but falls short of its predecessor’s stunning standards

Strong rhythm and pace, Solid build quality

Sound is generalised and lacking in refinement, Upper treble is suppressed

Bass is generally good but across most of the audio band there's less control and precision than we'd ideally like to hear

Very strong on timing and detail, useful MP3 player input on the front

Needs careful speaker partnering