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Rotel vs NAD vs Marantz

In general, speaking strictly about bass extension, slam, & punch, which of the 3 brands produce CD players that deliver this the most? Which ones have a reputation for delivering this the best? My opinion is that of the 3, Rotel is probably the one which produces this the LEAST. They seem to have a more clinical sound better suited for classical music or straight ahead jazz. What do you all think? I've read reviews of Rotel CD players where some folks stated not to buy one if you're playing rock N roll.
pdn

Showing 1 response by bondmanp

bondmanp
1,783 posts
 
I cannot speak for the Marantz, but the bottom few octaves were one of the major differences between the NAD 541i and the Rotel RCD-02 I auditioned when I bought a new player in late 2002. The NAD had thick, fat bass that lacked a bit of definition and tended to overpower the rest of the spectrum. While the RCD-02 has excellent bass extension and definition, IMHO, it is a bit polite in terms of output. Yet, when the recording calls for it, the bass dynamics on the RCD-02 seem pretty good to me. I bought the Rotel, but not because of its bass qualities (I felt it did other things better than the NAD). I like the RCD-02, but I agree that it is on the bright side of neutral.

Now, the equivalent models are the RCD-06 and the NAD 542, neither of which I have heard, so an audition is in order, if possible.
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