I owned a Hegel P20 and Pass XP-10 at the same time to compare with my Pass X250.8 amp. I preferred the sound of my system with the P20. I felt it was more resolving and exciting compared to the XP-10, at least with the Pass amplifier.
Considering a Hegel preamp
My current gear is all SS, Marantz SA 8005, McCormack RLD-1, McCormack DNA-1 Ultra Platinum (2018). I have asked here before about preamps, but have stayed put with my stock RLD-1. I didn’t however consider a Hegel P4A preamp.
I would like to stay under $2K but aiming for under $1500 if poss. I have debated sending the RLD-1 to SMC for an upgrade, but considering other options. Only issue I have with the P4 is lack of HT bypass. With that being said, would the Hegel P20 be the one to look at unless they both offer similiar performance...if so, I can get by without the HT bypass but would be nice to have it.
The RLD-1 is getting old but still performs very well, I just believe for around my budget there is likely better options.
Very curious to hear opinions from members who have used Hegel preamps.
All input appreciated.