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.
