I just swapped out amps today in my office/computer room. For the past month or so I had been using my 981 Rotel a 130x2 marvel for its moddest price (600.00 msrp). I have read more positive reviews than I can count on the 981 and I got to say I agree it is one of the finest sounding amps I have heard at any price. Lots of authority, much more depth and clarity than its meager price tag would suggest. A very forward almost in your face sound but very pleasant at the same time. I never get tired of the Rotel, I listen to it all day every day and love every minute, kind of puts you right in the music.
Now the 5160 Onkyo (150x2) I just got last week (102.00 eBay) excellent condition better than mint, perfect cosmetics. The sound didn’t disappoint me either, a bit laidback compared to the Rotel. Very nice warm pleasant sounding amp, doesn’t seem as eager to get with it as the Rotel, most likely not as sensitive as the volume knob is up around 9 o-clock to give the same spl as the Rotel at about 8 o-clock, very scientific I know.
I really like how both of these amps sound but there is a distinct difference albeit very subtle. I like them both for different reasons. The warm soothing Onkyo or the up front Rotel. . . I am not comfortable using some of the terms you normally see when comparing amps or other audio gear. All I can do is tell you what I think, wether I like it or not and I do like them both. I will say the Oink grows on you after listening awhile, not tireing either.
The Oink was destined to garage duty but after listening to it all day I think it will stay put for awhile.
Both are cool as cucumbers no excess heat to worry with and I think for cool running the Onkyo wins.
Now the 5160 Onkyo (150x2) I just got last week (102.00 eBay) excellent condition better than mint, perfect cosmetics. The sound didn’t disappoint me either, a bit laidback compared to the Rotel. Very nice warm pleasant sounding amp, doesn’t seem as eager to get with it as the Rotel, most likely not as sensitive as the volume knob is up around 9 o-clock to give the same spl as the Rotel at about 8 o-clock, very scientific I know.
I really like how both of these amps sound but there is a distinct difference albeit very subtle. I like them both for different reasons. The warm soothing Onkyo or the up front Rotel. . . I am not comfortable using some of the terms you normally see when comparing amps or other audio gear. All I can do is tell you what I think, wether I like it or not and I do like them both. I will say the Oink grows on you after listening awhile, not tireing either.
The Oink was destined to garage duty but after listening to it all day I think it will stay put for awhile.
Both are cool as cucumbers no excess heat to worry with and I think for cool running the Onkyo wins.
