2. amps-preamps
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Hegel H120 or H190

Hello!

I’m considering getting an Hegel integrated amplifier. I like their sound, they are in my budget range and they feature the functions I will use. Because of my budget, I’m considering a H120 or a H190, used or new. H390 and H400 are out of my budget I think.

After several tests, I would say the H190 sounds slightly better (wider soundstage, more precision) but it’s not day and night though so I am still wondering what to do because it is also much more expensive, whether used or new.

I’d like to know your thoughts about that, if any of you had the two and used them over the course of several weeks or months.

Speakers are B&W CM1 (bookshelf); I’ll probably upgrade them within 2 or 3 years. I rarely listen to my music above 80 db and the room is about 17 square meters.

Thank you very much for your ideas!

boozendormi
boozendormi OP
12 posts
 

Thanks for your answer.

My preferred source is my CD drive (Cambridge 651C) or my TT (Clearaudio Emotion with Furutech / ADL GT40 Alpha phoo pre-amp). I might use the USB DAC entry but I won't do streaming.

I'm afraid that for now, H390 is out of my budget, even used.

grislybutter
2,989 posts
 

if you think the H190 is better, I don't see how you will ever be happy with the H120. You will always think you are missing something. However you room is so small, I don't think this is the best way to spend your money, nor that the difference is significant. (Small in the amplifier need sense, not in any experience limiting sense)  75wpc Class A/B is twice of what you need easily.

I would save that money (the difference) for a speaker upgrade. That's your weak link and best bang for the buck.  

bjesien
1,283 posts
 

Agree with Grisly, the CM1 is a good speaker but rather disproportionate to what you are spending on the amp. If the speakers are staying for the 2 years but the lower priced amp and upgrade it all when the time comes.

boozendormi OP
12 posts
 

Thanks!

So you would recommend another amp, maybe less powerful but of better design?

I'm considering a speaker upgrade indeed but I first need an amp: the previous one failed and the repair is too expansive. So I'm ampless for now :)

grislybutter
2,989 posts
 

I have been looking buying the Hegel H90 and H120 but both are outside my budget. I believe they are very reliable and great sounding amps. So, recommending something else would be a bit of a tangent. (Plus, when you ask for a recommendation here of whatever amp, you will get a lot of "you must have what I have, regardless of budget, synergy, etc.)

I have tried a lot of amps and I feel I arrived back at the conclusion that the source and the speakers are way more important.

I would stick with the H120, they will drive any speaker for you room. My favorite source for recommendation and synergy is the British Audiophile

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