When I first got into HiFi the local dealer was representing Hegel, I auditioned the Magnepan 3 series with Hegel cd player and Amp. I found the sound lacking in engagement. I asked him to use a McIntosh instead and was amazed at the step up in the quality of music the maggies put out. The dealer tried hard to get me to buy the Hegel and I said no way, ended up buying the Maggie 1.7i and paired it with Conrad-Johnson MF2275SE and have been happy as a clam. So bottom line, I can't recommend the HEGEL brand.
Considering A Hegel Amp. Need Experiences and Observations
Considering purchasing a Hegel from the used market. Have the option of either an H20 or a H4SE. There is a $1500 or so price difference between the two amps, but I can stretch and get the H4SE if its worth it.
The most important aspects I am looking for is detail, refinement, layering to the soundstage, micro dynamic contrasts, although bass extension is of some importance.
Speakers driven are JBL 4365, which are 93 dB efficient, so even the H20 is enough power on tap to hit house party SPL's. Pre amp will be a Plinius Tautoro.
Anyone have thoughts or experiences?
Oh, was also wondering about build quality, heat levels, and general sturdiness. The wiring in the H4SE looks a bit unruly, its nothing like the layout of the H30. The H20 seems a bit better, but its no great shakes. The chassis doesn't seem as stout on the H4SE as I would expect for an amp of that size and power, but its hard to tell with that metal casing, and its hard to see the gauge of metal being used. Since its going in my credenza, I wonder how warm it gets. I have forced air fans for it, so thats not a huge issue, but its still worth considering at this stage.
Thanks!
Neonknight
The most important aspects I am looking for is detail, refinement, layering to the soundstage, micro dynamic contrasts, although bass extension is of some importance.
Speakers driven are JBL 4365, which are 93 dB efficient, so even the H20 is enough power on tap to hit house party SPL's. Pre amp will be a Plinius Tautoro.
Anyone have thoughts or experiences?
Oh, was also wondering about build quality, heat levels, and general sturdiness. The wiring in the H4SE looks a bit unruly, its nothing like the layout of the H30. The H20 seems a bit better, but its no great shakes. The chassis doesn't seem as stout on the H4SE as I would expect for an amp of that size and power, but its hard to tell with that metal casing, and its hard to see the gauge of metal being used. Since its going in my credenza, I wonder how warm it gets. I have forced air fans for it, so thats not a huge issue, but its still worth considering at this stage.
Thanks!
Neonknight
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- 6 posts total
- 6 posts total