Rotel A14MKII Stereo Integrated Amplifier

Owner's Manual

Important Safety Information

Always ensure proper ventilation by leaving at least 10 cm (4 inches) of free space around the unit. Keep the amplifier away from heat sources, moisture, and liquids. Do not block ventilation openings. If the unit is exposed to moisture or foreign objects fall inside, immediately disconnect it from the mains power and contact qualified service personnel.

For electrical safety:

Do not attempt to remove the ground pin from the power plug. If the plug does not fit your outlet, consult a qualified electrician.
Use only the supplied power cord or an equivalent.
Ensure the power cord is not pinched, crushed, or damaged.
Never open the unit; there are no user-serviceable parts inside. Contact qualified service personnel for any repairs.

Symbols:

A lightning bolt inside a triangle indicates high internal voltages that may cause electric shock.
An exclamation mark inside a triangle indicates important information in the user manual.
The crossed-out wheeled bin symbol indicates compliance with WEEE directives for proper electronic waste recycling.
The double insulation symbol indicates that the unit does not require an earth connection.

About Rotel

Rotel, founded by a family passionate about music, has been dedicated to producing high-fidelity audio equipment for approximately 50 years. The company's engineers work collaboratively to refine each model, sourcing high-quality components globally. Rotel is committed to environmental responsibility, utilizing RoHS-compliant materials and optimizing power efficiency to minimize environmental impact. Rotel thanks customers for their purchase and aims to provide many years of musical enjoyment.

Getting Started

Welcome to the Rotel A14MKII Stereo Integrated Amplifier. For optimal performance and safety, please follow these initial steps:

Power Off All Components: Before connecting or disconnecting any components, including loudspeakers, ensure all devices in your audio system are turned off.
Secure Connections: Verify all connections are correct and secure before powering on the system. Pay attention to speaker cable wiring to prevent shorts.
Volume Level: It is recommended to turn the amplifier's volume control down to zero before turning it on or off.
Packaging: Retain the original packaging for future transport or storage to prevent damage.
Registration: Complete the owner's registration card or register online to facilitate warranty service.

Installation

Placement: Position the amplifier on a stable surface or within audio furniture designed to minimize vibrations. Ensure adequate ventilation by leaving at least 10 cm (4 inches) of clearance around the unit. Avoid placing it near heat sources.

Cabling: Route audio signal cables away from power cords and digital cables to prevent interference and noise. Use high-quality, shielded cables where possible for optimal sound quality.

Connections

Front Panel

The front panel features a central display, input selection buttons (Phono, Tuner, CD, USB, Optical, Coax, Aux, PC-USB, BT), a headphone jack, a front USB input port, and a power button. The Menu button provides access to configuration settings.

Diagram Description: The front panel of the Rotel A14MKII displays a central screen, various input source buttons, a prominent volume control knob, a headphone output jack, a USB port for media playback, and a power button. A 'MENU' button is also present for accessing settings.

Rear Panel

The rear panel provides comprehensive connectivity:

Speaker Outputs: SPEAKER A and SPEAKER B terminals for connecting loudspeakers.
Preamp Out: For connecting to an external power amplifier or active speakers.
Digital Inputs: COAXIAL 1/2 and OPTICAL 1/2 for connecting digital audio sources.
PC-USB: For connecting a computer via USB for digital audio playback.
Bluetooth Antenna: For wireless audio streaming.
Rotel Link: For system integration with other Rotel components.
External Remote Input (EXT REM IN): For wired remote control.
RS232 Port: For integration with home automation systems.
Network Port: For network connectivity, firmware updates, and IP control.
Rear USB Power Port (5V/0.5A): For charging or powering USB devices.

Diagram Description: The rear panel is densely populated with connection terminals. These include speaker binding posts labeled SPEAKER A and SPEAKER B, RCA connectors for Pre Out, digital inputs (Coaxial and Optical), a PC-USB port, a Bluetooth antenna connector, Rotel Link terminals, an RS232 port, a Network port, and a USB power output port.

Remote Control (RR-AX1400)

The included remote control provides access to all amplifier functions. Key buttons include:

Power: Turns the unit on or off.
Speaker Select: Switches between SPEAKER A and SPEAKER B outputs.
Menu Navigation: MENU, UP/DOWN/LEFT/RIGHT, and ENTER buttons for navigating settings.
Volume Controls: Adjusts audio volume.
Mute: Temporarily silences audio output.
Source Selection: Buttons for directly selecting audio inputs (Phono, CD, Tuner, USB, Optical, Coax, BT, PC-USB, Aux 1/2).
Tone Controls: BASS, TREBLE, and BYPASS buttons to adjust or disable tone settings.
Dimmer: Adjusts display brightness.

Diagram Description: The remote control is ergonomically designed with a power button at the top. Below are buttons for speaker selection, menu navigation, volume adjustment, and direct source selection. It also includes buttons for tone control (Bass, Treble, Bypass) and display dimming.

Connection Diagrams

Preamp Input and Speaker Output Connections: This diagram illustrates connecting the amplifier to a pair of speakers via the Speaker A terminals using speaker cables. It also shows connections from a CD player's analog outputs to the amplifier's CD input, and from a Phono source to the amplifier's Phono input, with a ground wire connected to the GND terminal.

Digital Input Connections: This diagram shows a computer connected to the amplifier's PC-USB input via a USB cable. It also depicts a CD player connected to the amplifier's digital inputs (e.g., Optical or Coaxial).

12V Trigger Connections: This diagram illustrates connecting the amplifier's 12V TRIGGER OUT to a compatible device, such as a tuner, via a 12V trigger cable.

Operation

Power

Press the Power button on the front panel or use the remote control's ON/OFF button to turn the amplifier on or off. In standby mode, the power indicator LED remains lit, but the display is off.

12V Trigger

The 12V Trigger outputs allow compatible devices to be powered on or off automatically when the amplifier is turned on or off. Use standard 3.5mm mini-jack cables for these connections. If using Rotel-Link, use that connection method instead of 12V trigger for power control.

Protection Indicator

A red LED indicates the amplifier's protection circuit has been activated due to overheating or overload. Disconnect power, allow the unit to cool, and identify the cause of the fault (e.g., speaker short circuit, poor ventilation). The LED will turn blue when normal operation resumes after the issue is resolved.

Signal Input Connections

Phono Input: Connect your turntable to the PHONO input. Connect the turntable's ground wire to the GND terminal to prevent hum and noise.
Line Inputs: Connect analog audio sources such as CD players, tuners, or tape decks to the LINE inputs (CD, TUNER, AUX 1/2) using RCA cables. Ensure correct channel matching (left/right).
Digital Inputs: Connect digital audio sources via the COAXIAL or OPTICAL inputs. The amplifier decodes PCM signals up to 24-bit/192kHz.
Preamp Outputs: The PRE OUT terminals provide a line-level signal that can be sent to an external power amplifier or active speakers.

Speaker Outputs

The amplifier features two sets of speaker outputs, SPEAKER A and SPEAKER B, selectable via the front panel switch or remote control.

Impedance: For a single pair of speakers, use a minimum impedance of 4 Ohms. If using two pairs simultaneously, all speakers should have a minimum impedance of 8 Ohms.
Cables: Use high-quality, two-conductor speaker cables. Thicker gauge cables generally provide better performance. Ensure correct polarity (+ to +, - to -) for all connections to maintain proper phase and bass response. Connections can be made using bare wire, spade connectors, or banana plugs.

Headphone Output

Connect headphones to the 1/4" (6.35mm) jack on the front panel. Note that connecting headphones does not automatically mute the speaker outputs; use the Speaker Selector to mute speakers if desired.

Display

The front panel display shows the selected source, volume level, and tone settings. It also provides access to the configuration menu.

Front USB Input

Connect Apple devices (iPhone, iPod, iPad) or computers to the front USB port. The amplifier supports USB Audio Class 1.0 (up to 96kHz) and USB Audio Class 2.0 (up to 384kHz). Windows PCs require a driver installation for Class 2.0. The unit is Roon Tested and supports MQA/MQA Studio playback via PC-USB.

Bluetooth Connection (APTX)

Stream music wirelessly from Bluetooth-enabled devices. Search for "Rotel Bluetooth" on your device and pair. Supports standard Bluetooth, AAC, and APTX codecs.

Rear USB Power Port

The rear USB port provides 5V/0.5A for charging or powering USB devices, such as portable music players. This port does not support audio playback.

Audio Controls

Volume

Adjust the audio volume using the large rotary knob on the front panel or the VOL +/- buttons on the remote control. The MUTE button temporarily silences audio output.

Balance

The Balance control adjusts the sound balance between the left and right channels. The default setting is centered (0). Adjustments are saved permanently.

Tone Controls (Bass/Treble)

Tone controls (Bass and Treble) are bypassed by default for a pure signal path. They can be enabled and adjusted from -10 to +10 via the MENU or remote control. Settings are saved permanently. Temporary adjustments can be made using the remote's Bass/Treble and navigation buttons.

Source Selection

Select the desired audio source by pressing the corresponding input buttons on the front panel or the remote control.

Display Brightness

The brightness of the front panel display and indicator LEDs can be adjusted via the MENU settings. These settings are saved permanently.

Menu Configuration

Access the configuration menu by pressing the MENU button on the front panel or remote control. Use the +/- or navigation buttons to change settings. Options include:

TONE BYPASS: Enable/disable tone controls.
BASS/TREBLE: Adjust bass and treble levels (-10 to +10).
BALANCE: Adjust left/right sound balance.
DIMMER: Adjust display brightness.
LED DIMMER: Adjust brightness of indicator LEDs.
POWER ON Volume Max: Set the maximum volume level upon power-on.
POWER MODE: Select between Normal and Quick Power modes for network standby operation.
USB POWER: Configure the rear USB port to provide power in standby (ALWAYS) or only when the unit is on (NORMAL).
OFF TIMER: Set an automatic power-off timer (20 MINS to 12 hours).
PRESENCE SIGNAL: Enable signal-sensing power-on.
GAIN FIXE: Set fixed volume levels for specific inputs.
PC-USB CLASS: Select USB Audio Class 1.0 or 2.0 (required for 384kHz and MQA).
NETWORK SETUP: Configure network settings (IP address, DHCP/Static).
S/W VERSION: Display current software version.
FACTORY DEFAULT: Reset all settings to factory defaults.

Troubleshooting

Most audio system issues stem from incorrect connections or configuration. If you encounter problems:

No Power: Check the power outlet and cord. If the power indicator LED does not light up, contact Rotel service for fuse replacement.
No Sound: Ensure the source device is functioning correctly, all cables are properly connected, and the correct input is selected on the amplifier.
Bluetooth Connection Issues: If pairing fails, remove previous pairings from your Bluetooth device and try connecting again.

Compatible Playback Formats

Format	Device/Connection	Remarks
USB Apple (iPhone, iPod, iPad)	Any file type stored on Apple device	Device or app may re-sample audio or have compatibility issues.
APTX & AAC Bluetooth	Any supported file type	App compatibility may vary.
PC-USB	Determined by Media Player/Software	Supports PCM up to 384kHz (16/24/32-bit) and MQA/MQA Studio (24-bit/384kHz). Roon Tested.
Coaxial/Optical	SPDIF LPCM	Supports up to 192kHz, 16/24-bit.

Specifications

Parameter	Specification
Maximum Output Power	150 Watts/channel (4 Ohms), 80 Watts/channel (8 Ohms)
Total Harmonic Distortion	< 0.018%
IM Distortion	< 0.03%
Frequency Response	Line: 10 Hz - 100 kHz (±0.5 dB) Phono: 20 Hz - 20 kHz (±0.5 dB)
Damping Factor	220 (20-20,000 Hz, 8 Ohms)
Input Sensitivity/Impedance	Phono: 3.4 mV / 47 kOhms Line: 230 mV / 24 kOhms
S/N Ratio (IHF 'A' weighted)	Phono: 90 dB Line: 100 dB
Digital Section	Supports up to 384kHz PCM, MQA/MQA Studio (24-bit/384kHz). Roon Tested.
Power Consumption	280 Watts
Standby Power Consumption	< 0.5 Watt (Normal), < 2 Watt (Network Standby)
Dimensions (W x H x D)	430 x 93 x 345 mm (17" x 3 5/8" x 13 1/2")
Front Panel Height	80 mm (3 1/8")
Weight (Net)	8.94 kg (19.7 lbs)

Contact Information

The Rotel Co. Ltd.
Tachikawa Bldg. 1F., 2-11-4, Nakane, Meguro-ku, Tokyo, 152-0031 Japan

Rotel USA (Sumiko)
6655 Wedgwood RD N, Suite 115
Maple Grove, MN 55311 USA
Phone: (510) 843-4500 (option 2)
Email: service@sumikoaudio.net

Rotel Canada (Kevro International)
902 McKay Rd. Suite 4
Pickering, ON L1W 3X8 Canada
Tel: +1 905-428-2800

Rotel Europe
Dale Road
Worthing, West Sussex BN11 2BH England
Phone: + 44 (0)1903 221 710
Fax: +44 (0)1903 221 525

Website: www.rotel.com

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