@@hclandscapes My channel is too small so I don't think Hegel would send me anything which means I have to buy it myself. My youtube channel already is fairly expensive to run as it's just a passion project and the Hegel pieces are outside of my channels budget :(.
Years back I heard the Hegel "sound" for the first time. It was in a little audio retailer in Vancouver. I was there to hear a particular Harbeth speaker and I knew nothing about the Hegel amp being used nor had I ever heard any Hegel amp. After 10 minutes of listening to Alice Sara Ott play a piece from Beethoven's Piano Concertos, I was stunned at the sheer beauty of the music. I was hearing something I had never heard before. I guess if the supreme being was an amplifier then a Hegel is what he would sound like. (with all due respect) This was a wonderful interview ... thanks guys!!!!!!
Alan Shaw does seem to pair his speakers exclusively with Hegel amps at shows these days, replacing the Quad amps he used to demo them with. I've had great results with my H90+Super HL5+ but it seems that I might have outgown the H90. Do you remember which Hegel it was and what Harbeth did you listen to?
What an amazing interview! I had a blast watching it! And I've learned so much. There is only one big problem: now I want Hagel amp badly :))) Thank you so much Ron.
I bought the Hegel H390 about 6 months ago and love it. I own a pair of B&W 804D3's and have always had challenges driving them with quality clean power. Very happy with this combo. The H390 and 804D3's go together so well.
I agree. I have a H390 and B&W 805D3s with a pair of REL subs. Excellent match. Where I think the Hegel would match well with many speakers, I don't necessarily feel that the B&Ws would present as well with some amps (especially the amps that accentuate the upper frequencies).
@@mtkreger Which REL's are you using with your setup? I'm considering upgrading my sub situation.. currently use a single SVS SB16-Ultra. It sounds good in my listening position but it's massive in my room and think I could do better with a pair of smaller quality subs.
@@fxstd000 I had originally purchased KEF LS50 Metas and a pair of REL T7i subs. I returned the KEFs in favor of the B&W 805D3s, but decided to keep the T7i subs. REL recommends their S/510 subs with B&W 804s and 805s. But, the pair of T7i subs blend in very well with my setup and listening area...so, I didn't feel the need to drop another $3k on the S series subs.
Hello Ron and Anders! Thanks for the great interview. I really enjoyed it! I own both a Rost and H390, so looking forward to your impressions on the 390!
What an informative interview! Hegel's philosophy as to sound is a gentler version than ATC's philosophy as to sound of their amps. ATC's amp's sound is basically honest, so any inflection on the sound will totally depend on the recording.
What a pleasant, coherent and civilized conversation. It was worth every moment. I am excited to receive in two days a pre-owned, one owner Hegel P30 [Silver] Line level analog preamplifier. I am returning to [analog-only amplification stage] separates in a two-channel vinyl/network streaming DAC/PC/Bluetooth etc system. I also find the industrial design theme of the Hegel line of products to be very attractive.
Wow, wow, wow! How good is that guy at explaining things!! From my first time seeing an Hegel and wondering what was that nice looking amp at Darko’s place to the raving reviews about Hegel from Jay and many others, I’ve been dreaming of listening to one and having one. Ended up with Kef speakers for a good price and it seems to be the mariage either so I guess that one day… Thanks Ron.
I just picked up the H190 too pair with a pair of 705s2. Figuring in the brightness on the high end of the B&W the 190 would work well with keeping the B&W sounding right were the should .the H190 was on sale for $3200 ,I thought that was a fair price.B&W also were on sale here in the states for $2635🎉.thanks again for the great showing on your end.
Thank you for this, it was utterly fascinating and informative. I don’t own Hegel but my respect and admiration has grown by leaps and bounds. I hope to be able to listen someday. Also that phono amp sounds like the cats meow. For the record, let me state my findings with “modern” recordings put on vinyl. As you both stated, simply taking a hi-res file and cutting a lacquer does not result in a pleasing vinyl experience....BUT, there are modern recordings and artists who use other “artists” to mix and master them and they sound brilliant. Case in point the new Steven Wilson sounds incredible on vinyl. One size does not fit all. Thank you again for a wonderful channel and this program was a gem!!
The problem I have purchasing a Hegel is they do not support Tidal streaming but they do support Spotify which is not a CD quality service. I should not have to pay for a third party app to do so. Also you would expect for this money on an integrated amplifier to have a phono stage which it doesn't!
I purchased a Hegel H95 recently to update a small system I use in my basement 'Man Cave'. It immediately won me over and I added an H190 to my main living room system shortly thereafter. It's rare to find audio products that stand out in the marketplace these days but the Hegel's really are unique. Truly superb sound. It's worth seeking them out!
Bruce..please could you tell me Which differences did you notice between 95 vs 190.. I am thinking of those two. I would like to know top end differences.. Thanks in advance..!!
@@orionzey The H190 is certainly much more powerful but the sound signature is very similar to the H95 . The digital sections are the same which was the main upgrade of the H95 from the previous H90 model. The H190 is a bit fuller in the bass and the highs are a bit sweeter as well. They’re both very nice amps but the H190 is worth it if it’s within your budget.
Hey Randy! I don't think any of the Hegel integrated amps will end up on your channel anytime soon. After all, the Hegel has a remote. Vista Audio Spark, please! LOL :) JK, I have been interested in that little amp for awhile now.
@@Date08202011 ME-1. I think there are better amp synergies for them. I’ve since then moved on from the Hegel. If you’re set on the Hegel look for less stiffer comes or woofers like dyns or harbeths.
1)Do you think the high damping factor in the h190 and above hinders in any way the bass ? And if so has this been addressed? 2) does additional circuitry or software come into the way of the original recording even if they try to reduce distortion themselves? Isnt it a no ending circle? 3)Also which amp from your range would you recommend for ls50 metas? Thank you!
I splurged and bought the Hegel H590 the other day and breaking it in now with some Joseph Audio Pulsar 2 Graphene bookshelf speakers. I am planning if all goes well to consider a pair of Magnepan 20.7s down the road and with this amps capability will this be a good match with power and current drive? Love how fast this beast is, you can really appreciate the lightning fast damping factor in the bottom end. Thanks fellas.
Great and valued interview with Mr. Anders one of the key men in Hegel. Very proud to own an H120 which I’ll soon connect to a brand new Harbeth HL5. Many thanks!
Have the H5 90 and really think it’s outstanding. Gonna love to hear your review of the 390. Also Hegel customer service is outstanding. I’ve emailed them multiple times and I’ve gotten this gentleman here more than once and he has helped me to debug things
While I love the Hegel sound and think their products are phenomenal I would love to see more research done on the journalist's side and have some tougher questions that the company can answer. As it is, this all sounds like a puff piece where Ron was just saying "Wooow", "Amazing" "It is powerful AND engaging!".
Great video, thanks! I think Hegel came up short with the RCA jacks. I wish they were chassis mount for this price point. Also, the close proximity of them, it appears some interconnects with large ends won't work. I have Synergistic Research Atmosphere unbalanced cables and those connectors are large.
I'm no fan boy, never have been one for anything either. Bought a Hegel H160 and it's a high current silent monster powering some Martin Logan's. Just in case someone is interested in the pairing; Anders had commented in a Hegel video's comment section to me, that they use to test their amps with Martin Logan's. Sounds nice, I must say, gets me really excited and makes me smile all the time when I'm alone and listening to something new and surprising. I don't have much experience but it feels great, and in the end; I guess that's what's important. Edit: Thanks for this interview Ron, hearing from the makers is gold!
My 390 is the best piece of gear I've bought so far, by a large margin....except maybe my Dynaudio Heritage Specials which will be here in a month...Can't wait to hear the two together
@@Coolesttech dude I ordered the HS too, u will get them before I do would love to hear your impressions, btw the 390 is going to be the peanut butter to that HS jelly!
Isn't a 390 way overkill for special heritage. I'm thinking you only need 90 watts to 120 watts for that speaker as long as you have a moderate current.
I currently own an H90 and an H390. I never had anything else in the price range of the H390 but I have had many amplifier in the price range the the H90. I think the H90/95 is an exceptional value in its price category when you consider it is a really good amp, streamer, DAC in one box that will drive many hard to drive speakers. I like this amp so much I have zero reservations buying an H390 blind.
Bought a Rost in Nov 2020, like it so much that I sold off all my separates and monblocks and bought the 390, blindly in Feb and my amp journey is complete! At least for my main 2 channel room.
I've been quite cynical about HiFi gear, because I haven't found anything that would move me emotionally. Have been been auditioning a lot of gear, but nothing seemed to work. It was about 3 years ago, when I went to a local store and they hook up Hegel H300 amp with Amphion One18 speakers. My jaw dropped! I had previous experience with the Amphion speakers, but the Hegel added something to the sound that I have been missing all those years. First time in a long time I was emotionally attached to the music. Great products!
I just wander how much this company invested in marketing and promotion :) Listened to H390 and H590. Another decent solid state amplifiers and that is all. Have not found anything extraordinary. There are thousands of the same style decent solid state amplifiers that have decent sound as well. Anyway I like that the hype again is back to powerful current capable amps :) Because this is the area that I like.
Great interview! Any idea what's the difference between Sound Engine 2 and the original one? Is it worth buying a used H20 with Sound engine 1 for the same or less than a new sound engine 2 H190 if I don’t need the streamer/Dac part in the H190?
With the USB being limited to 24 bit 96hz (on H95, H120 and H190) and other Inputs being bale to receive 24 bit 192 Hz: which inout is the best to use when connecting to PC and other digital sources?
Hm. So what Anders is saying is that the airiness and top end that I think that I'm missing with my H90 is, thanks to SoundEngine, actually discarded distortion that I hear on other amps. Interesting. Though how much of that is due to the circuit budget will come down to how the H390 sounds like. Looking forward to the review Ron! Even though it would probably take a kidney or two to afford it...
That was my big take away too; much like Echo Cancellation circuits for video and teleconferencing, they are "canceling" the distortion that the amp is generating. Also like noise cancelation in headphones - same base concept. The other takeaway is that DACs require great clocks.
I belive all companies will consider production cost a trade secret and something you do not want to disclose to competitors, for example. So we do not share that information unfortunately
I worked the berry fields and the canaries as a kid....I wouldn't have exvhanged the experience for anything! My work ethic was molded by it!!!! Child labor and working as a kid, I would argue, are two separate things.
“Straight wire with gain” should always be the goal. Flat response, high current, fast slew rate, high damping and low THD and IMD. Done. No BS. You want change? Change speakers or cartridge. If you like the tube sound, fine, but there is no standard there. You’re on your own.
I once auditioned H590 and liked it very much but couldn't afford. I may consider H390 instead. I looked at the back side but couldn't find where it's made in, does anyone know? Thanks.
Prototyped and designed in Norway, made in China. Not that it matters anymore these days, since China has been capable of manufacturing world class electronics for a long time now. You just pay more for production costs and QC to get that.
@@aaronlau5123 exactly. I am sick of the, "Oh, but it's made in China." So what. My Quad S-2's are developed in England and made in China, best pair of bookshelves I have had in here.
I know this video is a tad old. But a question for Anders. If Hegel has such a great story and history. Why such a crap warranty ????? This is literally why I chose a Rega.... Sounds like they have no faith in there product.
Designed, tested and developed in Norway, assembled in China. It's misleading to say "manufactured" in China. It's just not true. I have a 5-series BMW which is 100% a German engineered car but it was assembled in Mexico. It's not a Mexican manufactured car...you get it!
But hey....isn't distortion a way of colorration for a specific amp? I heard somewere, that u in fact NEEDS some distortion, but it seems that in the hifi community, it's all about lowering that distortion, as much as possible, so i',m confused on this matter? Some of the best amps iv'e heard, measurement poorly, so what's going on here? Cheers from Denmark
I agree. Many great amps measure poorly. He seems to be of the philosophy that prioritizes measurements over everything else. I also didn’t agree when he said he believes if something can’t be measured it doesn’t exist. That is the same argument made by many people who don’t believe in cables making a difference. Just because you don’t have a way of quantifying something doesn’t mean it doesn’t exist.
These amps need balance control otherwise they will never get my cash. There are plenty of people out there that have a hearing deficit on one side and / or can’t be sitting in the sweet spot.
So here's the problem I have with all this stuff. Disclaimer: For too many years now perhaps, I am an audiophile second and a musicophile first. Anders, and other constructors, talk about and agree with the concept that, even though components such as capacitors, transformers and other parts have the same spec'd values, blind listening will reveal sonic differences. Look folks, there is no magic at work here, but pure physics. This is science, not mumbo jumbo. What accounts for these differences electronically?. It has to be explained based on electronic physical science. So why do reviewers not ask these tough questions??? What is everyone in the electronics industry so afraid of? Why do electronic component parts that measure identically from different manufacturers sound different? All the R&D in the world to produce better amps, preamps and DACS doesn't amount to a hill of beans unless this can be understood and explained. Swapping parts for parts blindly and randomly and then asking which ones sounds better is a fool's errand. But no, we the endearing enthusiasts are left in the dark as usual. this is why I am more and more disgusted with this hobby and the industry supporting it.
I get what you are saying but maybe they just don't know why components sound different even when they measure the same. I personally want a really good hifi system and will use reviews to then listen to the gear and make my own mind up about how it sounds. I think there so many variables that make gear sound different it would take a nasa space program approach to find out why they interact and sound different. Race engines are the same in some respects all the parts have been machined and assembled equal but some engines are just better than others, maybe by the smallest of margins but better.
[The Most Disappointing Audio Manufacturer = Hegel ] I have owned the H360 since 2017 and I really like the amp, but if you live in a region where there isn’t a distributor w/facility to repair the amp, you are out of luck in getting parts to repair it. They advise you to send it to their repair facility in the states or Europe to have their product repaired. If you have a later or discontinued model depending where you live, it can cost more to have it shipped+repair+parts compare to the value of the amp in the used market. They have very little consideration for the end-users of their products. If I had known Hegel will not assist end-users where there isn’t an official distributor in a region, I would’ve never purchased their product. Why in the world would a consumer invest $$$ thousands on a amp if there isn’t any REASONABLE support down the road? I’m pretty sure there are other audio manufacturers that will find a way to help and assist their customer find a way to repair a product the manufacturer sole heartedly built for their customers to enjoy. There should be some type of pride in wanting to assist in repairing a product they have built, but for some reason, this company does not have a clue or just don’t care about their customers. A lesson I’ve learned is that, when purchasing audio especially something costing $ thousands, we should also look into the reputation of a manufacturer of the company before purchasing their product. And Hegel is a manufacturer so disappointing that you should think NOT twice, but consider their company’s policy, reputation to the end-user even before considering their product. There are just many other brands to choose from than Hegel. I hope your reviews are for the end-users and not for the manufacturers.
Kevin, sorry to hear about your experience with the H360. May I ask what you were looking to fix? I was actually considering the h360 used... What did they quote you for the repair?
@@Date08202011 If you’re in the market for a used H360, it is a great amp. My H360 has problems with the digital output stage, I asked if I can send that specific part and have it repaired since that is the problem according to my local technician. But Hegel declined to do so. They have actually advised me and I quote the HEGEL REPRESENTATIVE: [Please note that we would strongly advise against purchasing a Hegel product and bringing it to a country without an official distributor as you will be left without service and spare parts if so are required] If you have a local Hegel distributor in your area then you should be safe, but if that isn’t the case, there are many, many other great amps to choose from. I don’t know how much it will cost to repair the amp, but their policy towards repairs and helping their patron is quite very disappointing as I have pleaded to help me out. I like their products and I’d have most likely upgraded to the h590 and even their newly released phono stage, but now, my perspective in how I should purchase audio gears have changed. I don’t just look at the gears, but the reputation of the manufacturer before I make any investments. I hope I have answered your question and please don’t be disappointed in my answer as I have stated the H360 is a great amp and a capable piece of equipment, but just consider my experience with their after service policy to their patron.
hegel is meh..better bang per buck is David Belles amps in this price range. they ahve more robust power and better quality parts. More detail and more slam and made in America instead of China but just have an incredible everything good about them. Audio connection sells them.
If you value the lowest signal loss, recovery of very fine detail, transparency, sounding natural and colourless hegel is not the answer or the right amplifier. They are a poor contender, and at the bottom of the pack in these respects. They are just more average performing amplification and that's all they are, they are definitely nothing special in terms of the best quality performance, and less loss signal retrieval. I would like to know why they are getting so much hype and attention, just like kef ls50 hype, which are not that good or special performers either.
@@michaelmityok1001 At this price point, I came real close to pulling the trigger on a Rega Aethos. I'm glad I went with the 390. I had some very nice separates and monoblocks. I sold them to get the Hegel. I have 0 regrets. I am running two systems in one room, both powered by Hegel. A 390 and a Rost.
This is one of the best interviews i’ve seen in the hifi space. No bs, just an open & honest conversation. Love it!
Hegel make amazing amplifiers, would be great if you could get one into review on your channel
@@hclandscapes My channel is too small so I don't think Hegel would send me anything which means I have to buy it myself. My youtube channel already is fairly expensive to run as it's just a passion project and the Hegel pieces are outside of my channels budget :(.
Years back I heard the Hegel "sound" for the first time. It was in a little audio retailer in Vancouver.
I was there to hear a particular Harbeth speaker and I knew nothing about the Hegel amp being used
nor had I ever heard any Hegel amp. After 10 minutes of listening to Alice Sara Ott play a piece from
Beethoven's Piano Concertos, I was stunned at the sheer beauty of the music. I was hearing something
I had never heard before. I guess if the supreme being was an amplifier then a Hegel is what he would
sound like. (with all due respect) This was a wonderful interview ... thanks guys!!!!!!
Alan Shaw does seem to pair his speakers exclusively with Hegel amps at shows these days, replacing the Quad amps he used to demo them with. I've had great results with my H90+Super HL5+ but it seems that I might have outgown the H90. Do you remember which Hegel it was and what Harbeth did you listen to?
This has solidified my understanding of Hegel and their products. A quality brand that I’m eager to check out. Thank you for this!
What an amazing interview! I had a blast watching it! And I've learned so much. There is only one big problem: now I want Hagel amp badly :))) Thank you so much Ron.
History shows us the best designs/inventions are out of need... Not greed.. This is a great story.
Much respect to Hegel.
I bought the Hegel H390 about 6 months ago and love it. I own a pair of B&W 804D3's and have always had challenges driving them with quality clean power. Very happy with this combo. The H390 and 804D3's go together so well.
I agree. I have a H390 and B&W 805D3s with a pair of REL subs. Excellent match. Where I think the Hegel would match well with many speakers, I don't necessarily feel that the B&Ws would present as well with some amps (especially the amps that accentuate the upper frequencies).
@@mtkreger Which REL's are you using with your setup? I'm considering upgrading my sub situation.. currently use a single SVS SB16-Ultra. It sounds good in my listening position but it's massive in my room and think I could do better with a pair of smaller quality subs.
@@fxstd000 I had originally purchased KEF LS50 Metas and a pair of REL T7i subs. I returned the KEFs in favor of the B&W 805D3s, but decided to keep the T7i subs. REL recommends their S/510 subs with B&W 804s and 805s. But, the pair of T7i subs blend in very well with my setup and listening area...so, I didn't feel the need to drop another $3k on the S series subs.
I’m hoping that the H190 can push my 705 B&W .?
Hello Ron and Anders! Thanks for the great interview. I really enjoyed it! I own both a Rost and H390, so looking forward to your impressions on the 390!
Big respect to Anders (and you, Ron) for his willingness to step-up for round two!
What an informative interview! Hegel's philosophy as to sound is a gentler version than ATC's philosophy as to sound of their amps. ATC's amp's sound is basically honest, so any inflection on the sound will totally depend on the recording.
What a pleasant, coherent and civilized conversation. It was worth every moment. I am excited to receive in two days a pre-owned, one owner Hegel P30 [Silver] Line level analog preamplifier. I am returning to [analog-only amplification stage] separates in a two-channel vinyl/network streaming DAC/PC/Bluetooth etc system. I also find the industrial design theme of the Hegel line of products to be very attractive.
Wow, wow, wow! How good is that guy at explaining things!! From my first time seeing an Hegel and wondering what was that nice looking amp at Darko’s place to the raving reviews about Hegel from Jay and many others, I’ve been dreaming of listening to one and having one. Ended up with Kef speakers for a good price and it seems to be the mariage either so I guess that one day… Thanks Ron.
I just picked up the H190 too pair with a pair of 705s2. Figuring in the brightness on the high end of the B&W the 190 would work well with keeping the B&W sounding right were the should .the H190 was on sale for $3200 ,I thought that was a fair price.B&W also were on sale here in the states for $2635🎉.thanks again for the great showing on your end.
Thank you for this, it was utterly fascinating and informative. I don’t own Hegel but my respect and admiration has grown by leaps and bounds. I hope to be able to listen someday. Also that phono amp sounds like the cats meow.
For the record, let me state my findings with “modern” recordings put on vinyl. As you both stated, simply taking a hi-res file and cutting a lacquer does not result in a pleasing vinyl experience....BUT, there are modern recordings and artists who use other “artists” to mix and master them and they sound brilliant. Case in point the new Steven Wilson sounds incredible on vinyl. One size does not fit all. Thank you again for a wonderful channel and this program was a gem!!
A good take on Hegel and what they stand for. Well done.
Great conversation. Love Hegel. I have the phone stage and it rocks.
Got a H190 with bowers & wilkins 705. Had the speakers for a few years. Wow finally they sing.. with the built in airplay, works great. love Hegel!
Is that a bit overkill for those little speakers?
I find that Hegel amps are not easily available for purchase in the US. Where can I buy one?
The problem I have purchasing a Hegel is they do not support Tidal streaming but they do support Spotify which is not a CD quality service. I should not have to pay for a third party app to do so. Also you would expect for this money on an integrated amplifier to have a phono stage which it doesn't!
I really enjoyed watching this chat. Got me interested of Hegel products when looking to buy next amplifier.
When is Andrew Jones chat coming :)
I purchased a Hegel H95 recently to update a small system I use in my basement 'Man Cave'. It immediately won me over and I added an H190 to my main living room system shortly thereafter. It's rare to find audio products that stand out in the marketplace these days but the Hegel's really are unique. Truly superb sound. It's worth seeking them out!
Bruce..please could you tell me Which differences did you notice between 95 vs 190.. I am thinking of those two. I would like to know top end differences.. Thanks in advance..!!
@@orionzey The H190 is certainly much more powerful but the sound signature is very similar to the H95 . The digital sections are the same which was the main upgrade of the H95 from the previous H90 model. The H190 is a bit fuller in the bass and the highs are a bit sweeter as well. They’re both very nice amps but the H190 is worth it if it’s within your budget.
@@brucek6838 Thank you!!
awesome. fun fun
Hey Randy! I don't think any of the Hegel integrated amps will end up on your channel anytime soon. After all, the Hegel has a remote. Vista Audio Spark, please! LOL :) JK, I have been interested in that little amp for awhile now.
Good interview. Love this brand, the simplicity and non austerity and vfm. Also that hifi isn’t austere with people at Hegel.
I love my hegel H190v. There is some magic in this amp 👌🏾
Great interview and insight into the company. Thanks for doing this
I have a H390 paired with TAD speakers. Pretty nice amp for my needs
Which TAD speaker are you using? And how large a room is it setup in, if you don't mind me asking? I'm considering a similar combo.
@@Date08202011 ME-1. I think there are better amp synergies for them. I’ve since then moved on from the Hegel. If you’re set on the Hegel look for less stiffer comes or woofers like dyns or harbeths.
1)Do you think the high damping factor in the h190 and above hinders in any way the bass ? And if so has this been addressed?
2) does additional circuitry or software come into the way of the original recording even if they try to reduce distortion themselves? Isnt it a no ending circle?
3)Also which amp from your range would you recommend for ls50 metas?
Thank you!
I splurged and bought the Hegel H590 the other day and breaking it in now with some Joseph Audio Pulsar 2 Graphene bookshelf speakers. I am planning if all goes well to consider a pair of Magnepan 20.7s down the road and with this amps capability will this be a good match with power and current drive? Love how fast this beast is, you can really appreciate the lightning fast damping factor in the bottom end. Thanks fellas.
That's it! I'm buying a Hegel H120 to drive some Spatial M4's! WoooHooo!
Great pick!
Am very close to picking up an H95 for 2 channel bookshelf. I think the pairing with Sonus faber Lumina 2 will be magic.
Great and valued interview with Mr. Anders one of the key men in Hegel. Very proud to own an H120 which I’ll soon connect to a brand new Harbeth HL5. Many thanks!
I own a H120 too its an amazing amplifier, i use it with KEF ls50 Meta's.
How’s that combo working out?
Excellent questions. Interesting answers.
Have the H5 90 and really think it’s outstanding. Gonna love to hear your review of the 390. Also Hegel customer service is outstanding. I’ve emailed them multiple times and I’ve gotten this gentleman here more than once and he has helped me to debug things
While I love the Hegel sound and think their products are phenomenal I would love to see more research done on the journalist's side and have some tougher questions that the company can answer. As it is, this all sounds like a puff piece where Ron was just saying "Wooow", "Amazing" "It is powerful AND engaging!".
Great video, thanks!
I think Hegel came up short with the RCA jacks. I wish they were chassis mount for this price point. Also, the close proximity of them, it appears some interconnects with large ends won't work.
I have Synergistic Research Atmosphere unbalanced cables and those connectors are large.
I'm no fan boy, never have been one for anything either. Bought a Hegel H160 and it's a high current silent monster powering some Martin Logan's. Just in case someone is interested in the pairing; Anders had commented in a Hegel video's comment section to me, that they use to test their amps with Martin Logan's. Sounds nice, I must say, gets me really excited and makes me smile all the time when I'm alone and listening to something new and surprising. I don't have much experience but it feels great, and in the end; I guess that's what's important.
Edit: Thanks for this interview Ron, hearing from the makers is gold!
cool interview, still have never heard a Hegel, but would love to one day!
A good engineering delivers! Love my little H120!
Just this week I got Hegel H360 amp, and with ProAc Response 1SC speakers. It is one fantastic pair.
Love my H190! It has such a black background and the networking capability is just what I need and nothing else.
My 390 is the best piece of gear I've bought so far, by a large margin....except maybe my Dynaudio Heritage Specials which will be here in a month...Can't wait to hear the two together
I'm thinking of going this exact system. I'd be very interested to hear your thoughts on it.
@@vrednie I'm just hoping I'll actually get my hands on the HS, only 2500 global pairs to be sold
@@Coolesttech dude I ordered the HS too, u will get them before I do would love to hear your impressions, btw the 390 is going to be the peanut butter to that HS jelly!
@@michaelmityok1001 and who doesn't love PB&J :)
Isn't a 390 way overkill for special heritage.
I'm thinking you only need 90 watts to 120 watts for that speaker as long as you have a moderate current.
I currently own an H90 and an H390. I never had anything else in the price range of the H390 but I have had many amplifier in the price range the the H90. I think the H90/95 is an exceptional value in its price category when you consider it is a really good amp, streamer, DAC in one box that will drive many hard to drive speakers. I like this amp so much I have zero reservations buying an H390 blind.
Bought a Rost in Nov 2020, like it so much that I sold off all my separates and monblocks and bought the 390, blindly in Feb and my amp journey is complete! At least for my main 2 channel room.
I've been quite cynical about HiFi gear, because I haven't found anything that would move me emotionally. Have been been auditioning a lot of gear, but nothing seemed to work. It was about 3 years ago, when I went to a local store and they hook up Hegel H300 amp with Amphion One18 speakers. My jaw dropped! I had previous experience with the Amphion speakers, but the Hegel added something to the sound that I have been missing all those years. First time in a long time I was emotionally attached to the music. Great products!
I just wander how much this company invested in marketing and promotion :)
Listened to H390 and H590. Another decent solid state amplifiers and that is all. Have not found anything extraordinary.
There are thousands of the same style decent solid state amplifiers that have decent sound as well.
Anyway I like that the hype again is back to powerful current capable amps :) Because this is the area that I like.
Really enjoyed this. Thanks.
Great interview! Any idea what's the difference between Sound Engine 2 and the original one? Is it worth buying a used H20 with Sound engine 1 for the same or less than a new sound engine 2 H190 if I don’t need the streamer/Dac part in the H190?
what respectable audiophile would buy a amplifier with a DAC inside? waste of money
With the USB being limited to 24 bit 96hz (on H95, H120 and H190) and other Inputs being bale to receive 24 bit 192 Hz: which inout is the best to use when connecting to PC and other digital sources?
Hm. So what Anders is saying is that the airiness and top end that I think that I'm missing with my H90 is, thanks to SoundEngine, actually discarded distortion that I hear on other amps. Interesting. Though how much of that is due to the circuit budget will come down to how the H390 sounds like. Looking forward to the review Ron! Even though it would probably take a kidney or two to afford it...
That was my big take away too; much like Echo Cancellation circuits for video and teleconferencing, they are "canceling" the distortion that the amp is generating. Also like noise cancelation in headphones - same base concept. The other takeaway is that DACs require great clocks.
A great review! I’d like to hear a review on just the power amplifier H20.
Buckle in and get the popcorn fellas and lady... I have the H160 and thank you for not allowing the cost cutting parts to make the final product.
That is exactly why we use both our ears and measurements. Thank you for choosing the H160!
I belive all companies will consider production cost a trade secret and something you do not want to disclose to competitors, for example. So we do not share that information unfortunately
anyone has experience with the hegel h70 ? is that still a valid budget amp ?
Good idea on the Hegel interview. I heard their spiel at RMAF's last show. Very interesting company.
This was awesome!!!!!!, I hope to afford to buy an Hegel one day
With a Cxa-61 amp, add a Denafrip dac or upgrade to H95?
Hi Ron, do you have an update when you might have the 390 review complete?
Do any Hegel still have a record out?
I have the hegel h390 in my dreams...it sounds sooo smooth
I worked the berry fields and the canaries as a kid....I wouldn't have exvhanged the experience for anything! My work ethic was molded by it!!!! Child labor and working as a kid, I would argue, are two separate things.
Yes, it was a joke that in retrospect came out wrong. It is the danger of unplanned jokes. Sorry about that. /ae
of course remember that some early CDs from record clubs were actually mastered from cassettes.
Hegel and Revel speakers love others. Amphion IS good with Hegel too.
I wish they were cheaper. Hopefully they have discounted sales .. will keep checking
“Straight wire with gain” should always be the goal. Flat response, high current, fast slew rate, high damping and low THD and IMD. Done. No BS. You want change? Change speakers or cartridge.
If you like the tube sound, fine, but there is no standard there. You’re on your own.
anyone have experience with hegel paired with tannoy? i have the new cheviots
I once auditioned H590 and liked it very much but couldn't afford. I may consider H390 instead. I looked at the back side but couldn't find where it's made in, does anyone know? Thanks.
Prototyped and designed in Norway, made in China. Not that it matters anymore these days, since China has been capable of manufacturing world class electronics for a long time now. You just pay more for production costs and QC to get that.
@@infn Thanks and agreed with your points China makes very good products nowadays.
@@aaronlau5123 exactly. I am sick of the, "Oh, but it's made in China." So what. My Quad S-2's are developed in England and made in China, best pair of bookshelves I have had in here.
When will Hegel have a distributor in Malta? How do I go about getting a Hegel, either the CD or amplifier living in Malta?
I know this video is a tad old. But a question for Anders. If Hegel has such a great story and history. Why such a crap warranty ????? This is literally why I chose a Rega....
Sounds like they have no faith in there product.
Hegel are one of the best European brands producing amplifiers.They sound great.
why would any audiophile buy and integrated with a built in DAC or Streamer? i am old school
Well at least the audio crapped out at the end!
do u still have the rogue st100 with the 99 super magnum?
No I don’t
@@Newrecordday2013 How long ago did you get rid of it and why thank you
I love Hegel
vinyl to me is just more enjoyable but obviously less convenient.
Why is Hegel manufacturing their products in China?
Designed, tested and developed in Norway, assembled in China. It's misleading to say "manufactured" in China. It's just not true. I have a 5-series BMW which is 100% a German engineered car but it was assembled in Mexico. It's not a Mexican manufactured car...you get it!
But hey....isn't distortion a way of colorration for a specific amp? I heard somewere, that u in fact NEEDS some distortion, but it seems that in the hifi community, it's all about lowering that distortion, as much as possible, so i',m confused on this matter? Some of the best amps iv'e heard, measurement poorly, so what's going on here? Cheers from Denmark
I agree. Many great amps measure poorly. He seems to be of the philosophy that prioritizes measurements over everything else. I also didn’t agree when he said he believes if something can’t be measured it doesn’t exist. That is the same argument made by many people who don’t believe in cables making a difference. Just because you don’t have a way of quantifying something doesn’t mean it doesn’t exist.
These amps need balance control otherwise they will never get my cash. There are plenty of people out there that have a hearing deficit on one side and / or can’t be sitting in the sweet spot.
Recently heard about that new phono stage, trouble is the nearest dealer is 100 miles away.
Engine 2 cool innovation... groundbreaking product...
This New Record day guy sounds like AI narrator voice.And it looks like the other guy hates pronouncing "Z"😅
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Cosy chat.
So here's the problem I have with all this stuff. Disclaimer: For too many years now perhaps, I am an audiophile second and a musicophile first. Anders, and other constructors, talk about and agree with the concept that, even though components such as capacitors, transformers and other parts have the same spec'd values, blind listening will reveal sonic differences. Look folks, there is no magic at work here, but pure physics. This is science, not mumbo jumbo. What accounts for these differences electronically?. It has to be explained based on electronic physical science. So why do reviewers not ask these tough questions??? What is everyone in the electronics industry so afraid of? Why do electronic component parts that measure identically from different manufacturers sound different? All the R&D in the world to produce better amps, preamps and DACS doesn't amount to a hill of beans unless this can be understood and explained. Swapping parts for parts blindly and randomly and then asking which ones sounds better is a fool's errand. But no, we the endearing enthusiasts are left in the dark as usual. this is why I am more and more disgusted with this hobby and the industry supporting it.
I get what you are saying but maybe they just don't know why components sound different even when they measure the same. I personally want a really good hifi system and will use reviews to then listen to the gear and make my own mind up about how it sounds. I think there so many variables that make gear sound different it would take a nasa space program approach to find out why they interact and sound different. Race engines are the same in some respects all the parts have been machined and assembled equal but some engines are just better than others, maybe by the smallest of margins but better.
[The Most Disappointing Audio Manufacturer = Hegel ] I have owned the H360 since 2017 and I really like the amp, but if you live in a region where there isn’t a distributor w/facility to repair the amp, you are out of luck in getting parts to repair it. They advise you to send it to their repair facility in the states or Europe to have their product repaired. If you have a later or discontinued model depending where you live, it can cost more to have it shipped+repair+parts compare to the value of the amp in the used market. They have very little consideration for the end-users of their products. If I had known Hegel will not assist end-users where there isn’t an official distributor in a region, I would’ve never purchased their product. Why in the world would a consumer invest $$$ thousands on a amp if there isn’t any REASONABLE support down the road? I’m pretty sure there are other audio manufacturers that will find a way to help and assist their customer find a way to repair a product the manufacturer sole heartedly built for their customers to enjoy. There should be some type of pride in wanting to assist in repairing a product they have built, but for some reason, this company does not have a clue or just don’t care about their customers. A lesson I’ve learned is that, when purchasing audio especially something costing $ thousands, we should also look into the reputation of a manufacturer of the company before purchasing their product. And Hegel is a manufacturer so disappointing that you should think NOT twice, but consider their company’s policy, reputation to the end-user even before considering their product. There are just many other brands to choose from than Hegel. I hope your reviews are for the end-users and not for the manufacturers.
@@r423sdex I should definitely look into the Cyrus^^. Thanks for the recommendation!
Kevin, sorry to hear about your experience with the H360. May I ask what you were looking to fix? I was actually considering the h360 used... What did they quote you for the repair?
@@Date08202011 If you’re in the market for a used H360, it is a great amp. My H360 has problems with the digital output stage, I asked if I can send that specific part and have it repaired since that is the problem according to my local technician. But Hegel declined to do so. They have actually advised me and I quote the HEGEL REPRESENTATIVE: [Please note that we would strongly advise against purchasing a Hegel product and bringing it to a country without an official distributor as you will be left without service and spare parts if so are required] If you have a local Hegel distributor in your area then you should be safe, but if that isn’t the case, there are many, many other great amps to choose from. I don’t know how much it will cost to repair the amp, but their policy towards repairs and helping their patron is quite very disappointing as I have pleaded to help me out. I like their products and I’d have most likely upgraded to the h590 and even their newly released phono stage, but now, my perspective in how I should purchase audio gears have changed. I don’t just look at the gears, but the reputation of the manufacturer before I make any investments. I hope I have answered your question and please don’t be disappointed in my answer as I have stated the H360 is a great amp and a capable piece of equipment, but just consider my experience with their after service policy to their patron.
@@d.n.a5415 Purchasing hifi equipment is not an investment…
@@deevnn How is it not an investment?
He doesn't like music. He likes digital. Hence why Hegel sounds so soulless
Anders looks a bit like actor Dave Foley.
sales guy that is not EE engineer , try to explain DAC for another guy that is not even engineer , very funny , irony
hegel is meh..better bang per buck is David Belles amps in this price range. they ahve more robust power and better quality parts. More detail and more slam and made in America instead of China but just have an incredible everything good about them. Audio connection sells them.
If you value the lowest signal loss, recovery of very fine detail, transparency, sounding natural and colourless hegel is not the answer or the right amplifier. They are a poor contender, and at the bottom of the pack in these respects. They are just more average performing amplification and that's all they are, they are definitely nothing special in terms of the best quality performance, and less loss signal retrieval. I would like to know why they are getting so much hype and attention, just like kef ls50 hype, which are not that good or special performers either.
What amp manufacturer would you propose is better for around the same price range?
@@michaelmityok1001 Ian is trolling. Hegel is LEGIT!
@@jeffadams9699 lol I was genuinely excited to hear if there was something better!
@@michaelmityok1001 At this price point, I came real close to pulling the trigger on a Rega Aethos. I'm glad I went with the 390. I had some very nice separates and monoblocks. I sold them to get the Hegel. I have 0 regrets. I am running two systems in one room, both powered by Hegel. A 390 and a Rost.
@@jeffadams9699 congrats, interested if Ron will give the 390 a rave, hard not to now he had Anders on his channel!