The second zone feature requires either an external amplifier to power the speakers in this zone, or if your Rotel receiver offers an amplifier redirect feature, the redirected amplifiers can be used instead. The second zone can only be used with analog signal sources.

There are several different ways to control the remote zone on your Rotel product - from the front panel of the unit, via the remote control, using an external IR remote system, or using an RS232 based control system such as Crestron or Control4. An overview of the various options is provided below, but your authorized dealer would be the best contact for detailed information on this topic to help determine which method would work best for your application.

The zone can be controlled from the front panel of most Rotel products by pressing the ZONE button followed by adjusting the volume or input source. In the case of the RSP-1098, press the PATH button until Zone 2 status information appears on the OSD or TFT. Rotating the RSP-1098 function knob while this is displayed will allow the Zone 2 source to be changed.

The second zone can also be controlled by using the using the ZONE button on the RR-1050, RR-1060 or RR-1061 remote controls.

The third method of controlling the remote zone would involve using the rear 3.5mm IR input labeled ZONE REMOTE IN. This requires the use of an IR repeater system such as those manufactured by Xantech, Niles, and other custom installation manufacturers. This system will allow control of the second zone using a remote in the second zone or an IR-based keypad in the zone.

The final method used for control of the zone is an RS232-based control system such as Crestron or Control4. These systems offer full system automation and often can be programmed to provide detailed feedback such as what the current volume and input the zone is in. This type of control system does require extensive programming, and once again, your authorized Rotel dealer would be the best resource for more information.

Note all of the above also would apply to the third and fourth zone of audio as well for Rotel products that offer this.