The exquisite industrial design of the new Michi X3 and X5 models are complemented by their improved performance. The X3 delivers 350-watts of robust power into 4-ohm and 200-watts to 8-ohm loads, driven by a high efficiency oversized toroidal transformer feeding independent analog, digital and power amplifier voltage regulator circuits for optimal power isolation. Utilizing direct-path circuit topology, the X3 further isolates sensitive audio signals and processing from the high current amplification stage lowering the noise floor and delivering an improved sound field.
The X3 circuits are designed to optimize the signal path to each of the 13 source inputs including XLR, analog, digital, USB, Bluetooth with aptX Bluetooth wireless streaming and a moving magnet phono stage. The X3 high-resolution screen ensures quick setup of all features and multiple user-selectable configuration options of the run-time display. Finally, RS232 and Ethernet connectivity provide integration with all popular control systems.
The X5 Integrated Amplifier delivers 600-watts of output power into 4-ohms and 350-watts to 8-ohm loads. The X5 supports an array of 14 source inputs including analog, digital, XLR, USB with DSD 2x decoding and MQA rendering, aptX and AAC high quality wireless Bluetooth streaming and both moving-magnet and moving-coil phono stages. The digital to analog conversions stage utilizes an AKM 32-bit, 768kHz DAC chip, offering improved accuracy and timing of the audio.
The front panel graphic display of the Rotel X5 provides easy access to all setup options using the included custom designed signature Michi remote control. This display is configurable to show operating status, a 12-band graphic EQ or peak power meter. RS232 and Ethernet connections ensure simple integration with automation systems.
Rotel was founded in 1961 in Japan as a builder of quality audio components and as an audio product OEM (original equipment manufacturing) design and assembly house. However, increased efforts were devoted to designing and marketing products under its own brand name, gradually building a prestigious portfolio of amplifier, receivers and integrated systems, always focusing on those audio components that emphasized musical accuracy, build quality, and affordability.
Although Rotel's basic engineering work was performed in Japan, an all-important lab facility in England was also entrusted with critical sonic parts selection and final tuning. In 1999, Peter Kao was sent to Hong Kong by his great uncle Tomoki Tachikawa (Rotel’s founder) and uncle Bob Tachikawa (Rotel’s CEO) to establish a manufacturing operation in China. Since then, with substantial investment in new technologies and manufacturing, Rotel has utilized the resources of its own international design team and has manufactured its products in its own sophisticated production facilities in Zhuhai, China.
Michi is a flagship series of high end audio products, epitomizing Rotel's experience and all the passion of a family-owned business. Three decades after its first appearance, the Michi series returned with a powerful monoblock amplifier, a stereo amplifier and a controller, all with a stunning new design and build quality. The two new integrated amplifiers in the Michi series share the same aesthetics, but make the whole concept much more affordable and will appeal to a whole new generation of potential buyers.
The X3 Integrated Amplifier ($4,999 USD) will be available for purchase in September 2020 with the X5 Integrated Amplifier ($6,999 USD) following in November 2020.
www.rotel.com
