Rotel RA-820 Amplifier

On my audio journey, in the early days I went through many Japanese amplifiers and receivers, including a Sansui (not the sought after versions), a JVC, then I bough a Harmon/Kardon (HK330i) receiver, finally bringing me to a Rotel AR-840BX that I bought in 1985.

I came across this little gem, a Rotel RA-820, from early 1980's. This was from a time of hi quality amplifiers for less money, and this amp competed against the NAD 3020, which has it's own cult following. There is a little history on the early Rotel series here.

Rated at 25 watts per channel and very much a minimalist amplifier that does not get in the way of the sound. Like the NAD and my earlier 840-BX these Rotels punch way above the rated watts per channel when turned up, lots of head room, easily doubling their rated RMS per channel.

This unit I picked up is in awesome condition from a guy downsizing his audio system. 

I currently have this running with the Dynaco A25's and this is a great combination for Hi-Fi. I always like the low watt entry level units, that are less complicated and offer great value. This Rotel was a great score and rare to come across in such great condtion.

Dynaco A25 Speakers

My keen eye spotted a local pair of Dynaco A25 speakers offered up locally with no labels on the ad, I recognized them by the backs of the speakers.

Back in 2017 I had a pair of Dynaco A25's and in 2016 I had a pair of Dynaco A35's and now I get this great pair of 25's to listen to again.

 

 

 This pair of A25's are in great shape with all corners square and the grills in perfect condition. The usual sanding and re oiling to cabinets will be in order. I currently have these hooked to my 2 watt tube amp in my office and I am loving them. 

The bass is better than the KLH Model 17's I have, on par with Advents that I have had in the past. I may replace the crossover cap with a new Solen one.

I am happy to have these speakers again and I think they will be sticking around for awhile.

November 11th update, I have replaces the original capacitor with a Solen polypropylene cap and sanded the cabinets, a coating of Circa 1850 Terra Nova Naturoil has brought the cabinets back to their glory.

The water stain is going to stay in one speaker and the small scratches have been smoothed out pretty good in the other.