Taking a page from Rotel’s flagship, the RSP-1098, the RSP-1068 Surround Sound Processor/Preamplifier combines flexibility, superior performance, and easy operation. Flexibility begins with enough inputs and outputs to easily accommodate the most demanding system configurations. You can connect up to eight sources, five of them video-based, plus a CD player, external tuner, and an analog tape recorder. In addition, there are five assignable digital audio inputs, 3 coaxial and 2 optical. There’s also a direct analog stereo mode that bypasses all digital processing.

To increase your viewing pleasure, the RSP-1068 includes inputs and switching/transcoding for five composite, five S-, and three component video sources. Custom ID capability lets users program the front panel display so it precisely confirms all of your A/V input selections. Advanced microprocessors from Crystal Semiconductor handle Dolby Digital (complete with dynamic range adjustments), Dolby Digital EX, DTS, and Dolby Pro Logic II decoding. The RSP-1068 also automatically detects and decodes DTS ES, DTS ES Discrete and Matrix, DTS 24/96, HDCD, and MP3-encoded audio. There’s also DTS Neo:6 mode for cinema sound and music. Six other DSP modes (Music 1-4, 5 CH Stereo, and 7 CH Stereo) complement traditional two-channel stereo operation to make the RSP-1068 more than suitable for any source.

An adjustable subwoofer crossover and “on the fly” center, surround and subwoofer level adjustments mean you can adjust the RSP-1068’s response to perfectly match your preferences. Do you want large front speakers for stereo, but small front speakers for Dolby encoded movies? The RSP-1068 can do that and more.

Upgradeable software means you won’t be left behind by new advances either. The RSP-1068 integrates into advanced custom-designed systems with an RS-232 port, 12-volt “trigger” outputs, discrete on/off remote control command codes, multi-source/multi-zone operation with composite video, group delay settings, and a fully programmable universal remote control.

Last – but certainly not least – is Rotel’s most salient point: Sound quality. Exacting care in parts selection, circuit design, and particular attention to the power supply complete with Rotel-designed and built toroidal transformers result in clearly audible superiority.