I think your problem is most likely a componet issue.
You may consider changing out the rotel. If this is only a music system you may want to try seperates if it's in the budget to do so. Next I would work on IC, speaker wire and power cords. I think there is no quick or cheap fix for your brightness problem and buying new IC or speaker wire with the rotel will only get you minor improvements. It sounds like you may be out growing the current set up and it's time to move up a notch, your getting more educated in good sound so take the plunge and go for the componet upgrade. Sorry for slamming the rotel but for entry level mid fi it's a ok start into this hobbie but it's time to move on to better sound! Hope I was not to brutle! Happy Hunting
You may consider changing out the rotel. If this is only a music system you may want to try seperates if it's in the budget to do so. Next I would work on IC, speaker wire and power cords. I think there is no quick or cheap fix for your brightness problem and buying new IC or speaker wire with the rotel will only get you minor improvements. It sounds like you may be out growing the current set up and it's time to move up a notch, your getting more educated in good sound so take the plunge and go for the componet upgrade. Sorry for slamming the rotel but for entry level mid fi it's a ok start into this hobbie but it's time to move on to better sound! Hope I was not to brutle! Happy Hunting