Rotel RX-1052 and Outlaw Audio RR 2150 Stereo Receivers

All but forgotten in the age of the audio/video receiver, two stereo-only models focus on the music

The Outlaw Audio RR-2150 and the Rotel RX-1052 are attractive and compelling entry points for all those who desire musically engaging sound at a modest price; both prove that stereo receivers can be viable for critical listening. Their overall sonic performance is much better than the AVRs I’ve heard in this price class, and their flaws, compared with far more costly separates, are typically sins of omission. The Outlaw Audio’s broad feature set seems more “in tune” with today’s digital lifestyle; yet, for whole-house audio and basic video the Rotel is the answer. Although the Outlaw has suffered slightly in this comparison to the more refined sound of the Rotel, make no mistake—the RetroReceiver is competitive with some of the best integrated amplifiers I’ve auditioned at its price, like the NAD C 352. When you consider that the Outlaw has a tuner, phonostage, bass-management functionality, and more power, you begin to appreciate what a great bargain it is. Its appealing warmth and larger-than-life sound may just knock you out. Those listeners who demand a more neutral balance with slightly better detail, transparency, and transient quickness, will dig a bit deeper into their wallets and spring for the Rotel. Either way, it’s really good to discover a couple of stereo receivers that are legitimate entries into the world of high-performance audio.