I've now had an opportunity to audition the new Rotel CD player and smaller amps - i.e. the RCD06SE, RA05SE, RCD1520 and RA1520. Interesting!
First up, the SE models are identical visually to the 06 models (apart from small graphic in the corner). I liked the sleek look of the 06 so OK. The RA02 has long been a favourite of mine in a second system - amazing little amp for £350 and all the functions you need - including a superb phono section which I use with a Dynavector DV10x5 - if only I'd had an amp like that in the 1980s! The RA05SE is in a similar, detailed and punchy, area, but I can't say there's much difference. The RCD06SE sounded much more open than the non-SE model I would say. I fantastic budget system.... or it would be if they hadn't put the prices up! I can't see the marketing logic here - the SE models were quoted as £495 each, but for £695 you can get the 15- series models....?
Which leads to the 1520s, a far classier proposition all round. They look fantastic - a lot better in the flesh than a some UK products costing 2 or 3 times as much, I'm sorry to say. Again, all the facilities (though further up the scale a full-size headphone socket would have been preferable). The sound is bigger, smoother, silkier and generally extremely listenable. I can imagine some people finding more excitement in a Cyrus or similar combo, but I would bet that for long-term satisfaction these Rotels are a steal. The slot-loader worked really well - giving most of the CD back beyond the hole. And they look superb. Can we have an internet tuner/streamer to match the 15s?