2. amps-preamps
  3. 194867-130193

I own a Hegel H600 - how to upgrade? D50 dac maybe?

so I have this piece now a couple months and think its spectacular, just using it as a one box solution streaming Tidal connect

this is the first front end piece I've owned that makes me feel like I'm hearing "hifi"

at the moment I own nothing else so I'm judging the combined simultaneous capabilities of amp dac and streamer against past memories

I want more of this sound and am considering their new D50 dac

of course at that price point im not sure if I need to be looking at either a different dac or a streamer upgrade

one minor point, the bass appears to be a bit weak relative to some other amps Ive had, Parasound JC5 and Musical Fidelity M6S00 seemed to hit a fair bit harder but going just by memory here

I suspected initially  this may have been related to the potentially weak link built in  streamer, to my surprise, I tried a lumin u2 mini and not much changed in either bass or overall sq, matter of fact there seemed to be a bit of a loss of that hegel magic and but the lumin seemed more detailed and a bit louder maybe 3 dbs and I could not level match

conclusion...bass is not the greatest from the amp but built in streamer is pretty good?

so im thinking does this new Hegel 5k dac do more for me than something like a 5k streamer with proper power supply and/or 5k dac from another brand?

or am i at the point of diminishing returns with this piece where in i need to get into 10-15k dac / streamer upgrades to hear a noticeable difference?

I'm also finding that not many people have not heard this amp

all input is appreciated and I'll be happy to answer anything I can around this amp if you are seeking info

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

audiocanada

Showing 2 responses by rick_n

rick_n's avatar
rick_n
352 posts
 

I've spent time with your H600 in my listening room.  Congratulations, it's a great piece.  At this level, everything in and out will make varying degrees of difference.

If you wish to change the sonic presentation this is my short list, ordered by degree of impact. 1- external DAC, 2- external streamer, 3 power conditioning & cabling.

I would audition an external DAC and see what that gets you.  Holo May, Denifrips, and the new Hegel DAC should all play into your preferred sonic signature.  I don't think trying the Lmin mini was reaching far enough to make a big difference.  Once you get into the $5K and up streamers, they really, really all sound different from each other in a highly resolving system.  

Lastly, it might be worth trying a different power cord into the Hegel.  A really good high current cord might get you enough to be happy and this will be by far the least expensive way to get there.  Good luck and cheers. 

rick_n's avatar
rick_n
352 posts
 

I don't want to recommend a cord for you, it wouldn't be in good faith.  The cord that is best for me may be horrible match for your environment.  All common house power lines have different amount of noise and competition for current influencing them. Be open minded and try as many different cables as you can and discover what is the best match for your situation.  Use your relationships to your advantage.  Borrow a cord from your dealer or swap cords with your audio friends and see what sounds best.  Good luck and let us know how you make out.  

More to discover