RC-1082 new = $1200. RC-1090 only available used now = $700. I have a RC-1090 (upgraded from the RC-1070). I, too, dislike tone controls - they tend to add 'noise' to the system. BTW, the 1090 is not a truly fully balanced pre.
Rotel RC-1090 vs RC-1082
Am considering purchasing one of these preamps. Was wondering if anyone had compared them. I know the 1090 if fully balanced and the 1082 is not and that the 1082 is the newer model with tone controls (an abberation in my book). I'm basically looking for the best sound in the rotel price range.