Network Audio Players/Servers

In practice, the stripped-back Rotel app should be seen as complementary to the many streaming options of the RAS-5000. That's a departure from many rivals, such as NAD's or Marantz's offerings , whose apps offer total remote control over the amplifier. You'll only find three streaming options in the Rotel app itself: Internet radio, Qobuz and USB playback. The first of these makes it easy to return to a favourite station or discover radio stations that stream in high quality, and support for Qobuz is slick, including a search function and playlists presented on the main screen.

The app's sober interface displays best on a smartphone [pictured right], as its layout is less suited to the larger real estate of a tablet. Presumably, most users will favour the expanded user experience offered by the likes of Roon or, indeed, opt for the metal remote bundled with the RAS-5000 as the preferred way to control the other functions of this traditionalist all-in-one.