Rotel C8 Distribution Amplifier
Bring premium, rack-ready power to whole-home audio with the Rotel C8, an 8-channel Class AB custom installation amplifier engineered for clean dynamics and dependable multi-zone performance. Delivering 70 watts per channel into 4 ohms (all 8 channels driven), the C8 is ideal for driving distributed in-ceiling speakers, outdoor zones, and media-room surrounds with the control and headroom you expect from Rotel’s heritage.
Designed for integrators and serious DIY installs, the C8 includes four stereo analog inputs (A–D) that can be matrix-switched across Zones 1–4, with front-panel control for source selection and independent volume plus bass/treble/balance tuning per zone. For higher-demand speakers, channels can be configured for bridged output (up to 140W per channel into 4 ohms), while the oversized in-house toroidal transformer and multiple high-current output devices help keep bass tight and controlled.
Installation is straightforward: the 2U chassis is optimized for tight racks (no top/bottom clearance required), rack ears and mounting hardware are included, and detachable Phoenix speaker terminals simplify pre-wire and service. For automation systems, the C8 supports IP control, RS232 integration, and 12V trigger, plus a PA Override option to prioritize announcements across all zones.
The Rotel C8 is part of ListenUp's Rotel Power Amplifiers Collection.
What It's Good At:
- Driving whole-home audio with 8 channels of Class AB power for smooth, detailed sound
- Powering 4-zone systems with matrixed source routing and per-zone tone/volume control
- Handling demanding speakers with bridgeable channels for higher output per zone
- Clean, reliable rack installs with 2U chassis, included rack ears, and efficient ventilation design
- Seamless smart-home integration via IP control, RS232, and 12V trigger in/out
- Reducing install time and service calls with detachable Phoenix speaker terminals and flexible configuration
Rotel C8 Full Specifications:
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Product Type: 8-Channel Class AB Custom Installation Amplifier
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Channels: 8
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Zones: 4 (Zones 1–4)
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Maximum Power Output: 70 W/ch (8 channels driven, 4Ω)
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Continuous Power Output: 50 W/ch (8 channels driven, 8Ω)
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Bridged Power: 140 W/ch into 4Ω loads (bridgeable configuration)
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Total Harmonic Distortion (THD): < 0.1%
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Intermodulation Distortion (60Hz:7kHz, 4:1): < 0.1%
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Frequency Response (Line Level Inputs): 10 Hz – 100 kHz, 0 ± 0.5 dB
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Signal-to-Noise Ratio (IHF “A” weighted, Line Level Inputs): 100 dB
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Damping Factor (20Hz–20kHz, 8Ω): 80
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Crosstalk / Separation: > 50 dB
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Tone Controls: Bass ±10 dB at 100 Hz; Treble ±10 dB at 10 kHz
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Input Sensitivity (Line Level, RCA): 0.3 V
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Input Impedance (Line Level): 31 kΩ
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Input Overload (Line Level, RCA): 2.8 V
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Analog Inputs: 4 stereo inputs (ANALOG INPUT A–D), matrix-switchable to all zones
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Line Output: 1 stereo pair (Line Out) for daisy-chaining / pass-through (Input A available on Line Out)
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PA Override: Priority override option using Input A (broadcasts to all Zones 1–4 when enabled)
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Control & Integration: IP control, RS232 interface, 12V trigger
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12V Trigger: In/Out (3.5mm); trigger input accepts 3V–30V (AC or DC); trigger out max 10mA
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Network Port: For software updates and automation integration
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Speaker Connections: Detachable Phoenix speaker terminals (secure-locking, pre-wire friendly)
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Rack Mounting: 2U chassis; no top/bottom clearance required; rack ears & mounting hardware included
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Power Requirements: USA 120V, 60Hz; EC 230V, 50Hz
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Power Consumption: 570 W
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Standby Power Consumption: Normal < 0.5 W; Network Standby < 2 W
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BTU Rating (4Ω, 1/8 power): 1537 BTU/h
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Dimensions (W × H × D): 430 × 97 × 414 mm (17" × 3.9" × 16.3")
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Front Panel Height: 2U / 88.1 mm (3.5")
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Net Weight: 16.7 kg (36.81 lbs.)
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Finish / Color: Black only
Rotel C8 Q&A:
- What is the Rotel C8 designed for?
- The C8 is built for custom installation and whole-home audio, delivering 8 channels of Class AB amplification for multi-room and multi-zone systems.
- How much power does the C8 deliver per channel?
- It provides up to 70 watts per channel into 4 ohms with all 8 channels driven, and 50 watts per channel into 8 ohms with all 8 channels driven.
- Can I bridge channels for more power?
- Yes. The C8 supports bridged operation, allowing higher output (up to 140 watts per channel into 4 ohms) for zones or speakers that need extra headroom.
- How many audio sources can I connect?
- You can connect up to four stereo analog sources via inputs A–D, and matrix-switch them across Zones 1–4.
- Does it support smart-home or control system integration?
- Yes. The C8 supports IP control, RS232 integration, and 12V trigger input/output for reliable automation control.
- What makes it installer-friendly in a rack?
- The 2U chassis is designed for efficient rack mounting without requiring top or bottom clearance, and rack ears/mounting hardware are included.
- Does it offer a way to prioritize announcements (PA override)?
- Yes. A PA Override option can be enabled so Input A takes priority and broadcasts to all zones when audio is detected.
- What speaker connections does it use?
- The C8 uses detachable Phoenix speaker terminals, making pre-wiring easier and helping keep installs secure and serviceable.
Rotel C8 Downloads:
Rotel C8 Manual
Rotel C8 Specifications Sheet
Rotel C8 Drawing
