Note that this is a discontinued product. You may want to visit the brand's page here to browse their newer products.
What reviewers think
Bloggers and YouTubers have tried this product—so we've summarized their strongest opinions below. Links to full reviews follow.
Product Strengths
- Pleasing aesthetic and ergonomic design, excellent finish, and welter of facilities
- Smooth and sophisticated sound that's not edgy in the least
- A significant improvement over the already highly competent Röst design
- Delivers a good deal of power plus lots of detail—and strings it altogether in a musically coherent way
- An essential audition for anyone in the market for a modern mid-price integrated amplifier
- Offers pleasing connectivity options
Product Considerations
- Lacks Wi-Fi connectivity
- Not as self-consciously 'swish' as some Japanese products around this price
- The reviewer was slightly less fond of the small buttons on the remote control
- Doesn't reach the heights of sound quality enjoyed by the more-expensive integrated-DAC, the H390
- It has a USB input limited to a maximum resolution of 24/96 and won't accept the sampling rate of 88.2kHz
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs Naim SuperNait 3: Treble is more open and spacious
- Vs Röst: Offers improved networking, an enhanced digital section and lower noise floor with headphones
- Vs Röst: Has better bass control and less distortion on the headphone output when playing loud music
- Vs NAD C658: Has a warmer and more inviting sound
- Vs Cambridge Audio CXA81: Provides a more detailed sound
Takeaway: The Hegel H120 is a well-rounded amplifier that provides a great level of detail and refinement, and is easy to use, so users can focus on enjoying music. It delivers a lot of features and is worth checking out for anyone who wants a good all-in-one amplifier.
All
H120
reviews
Manufacturer details
- Power output: 2 x 75 W into 8 Ω @ 1kHz 1% THD, 100/120/230V AC
- Minimum load: 2 Ω
- Analog Inputs: 1 x balanced (XLR), 2 x unbalanced (RCA)
- Digital Inputs: 1 x coaxial (RCA), 3 x optical, 1 x USB, 1 x Network
- Line level Output: 1 x unbalanced variable (RCA)
- Frequency response: 5 Hz - 100 kHz
- Signal-to-noise ratio: More than 100 dB
- Crosstalk: Less than -100 dB
- Distortion: Less than 0.01% @ 50 W/8 Ω/1 kHz
- Intermodulation: Less than 0.01% (19 kHz + 20 kHz)
- Damping factor: More than 2000
- Dimensions: 10 cm x 43 cm x 35 cm (HxWxD) (3.93" x 16.93" x 13.77")
- Shipping weight: 12 kg (26.5 lbs)
"If I have seen further it is by standing on the shoulders of Giants" - said Isaac Newton in 1675. Without comparing ourselves to Isaac, we claim the same for the H120. It is a relatively affordable integrated amplifier that would not have been possible, were it not for its brothers leading up to its design.
The Hegel H120 is a small step up from our entry level amplifiers in terms of price, but it is (and we refrain from the obvious quotes here) a solid step up in features and performance. The significantly larger power supply creates a more dynamic sound and for combining with large loudspeakers presenting more challenging drive loads.
The digital section is taken directly from its bigger siblings, and this is really the core of the H120. We see the typical user of the H120 as people who are into digital music streaming. For the money we claim that the H120 does that better than anything else.
The digital-to-analog conversion is of the highest quality in the H120, with technology crafted from the ground up by Hegel. We take full control of the digital da...
Brand highlights
Taking a step back to look at reviewers' thoughts of the brand's entire lineup—not just this product—what stands out most is the following:
- Hegel amplifiers employ SoundEngine 2, a unique error-canceling technology, for minimal distortion and exceptional dynamic range without resorting to global negative feedback.
- The brand often incorporates advanced streaming capabilities like Spotify Connect, Tidal Connect, Google Cast, and AirPlay 2, making them versatile all-in-one solutions.
- Hegel's commitment to high damping factors (often exceeding 2000) results in exceptional bass control and overall speaker performance, regardless of impedance.
- They meticulously design and test their own DAC stages, implementing custom master clocks and technologies to optimize performance from carefully selected DAC chips.
Select products
H95
- The entry-level integrated amplifier, designed for modern digital streaming needs.
- Offers a smart combination of streaming capabilities and high-quality sound, featuring AirPlay and UPnP streaming. Its SoundEngine2 technology provides superior bass control compared to other models like the H190V. With a budget-friendly price, it suits those who want good sound without the high-end price tag, and its software upgradability ensures longevity in a changing tech landscape.
H190V
- Sits in the middle of Hegel's integrated amplifier lineup, offering a balance of power and features.
- Known for its versatility, includes a phono preamplifier and a high-quality headphone output, making it a great choice for vinyl enthusiasts and personal listening. It provides more power and a higher damping factor than the H95, suitable for larger rooms or more demanding speakers.
H600
- The reference integrated amplifier, representing the pinnacle of their integrated lineup.
- A powerhouse with 303 watts of output and a state-of-the-art preamplifier, offering exceptional soundstage and dynamic range. It features the most advanced DAC and streaming options in the lineup, making it perfect for large spaces and high-end audio systems.
H20
- A high-performance power amplifier, designed for those who need substantial power and control.
- Uses FET technology for a rhythmic and detailed sound, with a damping factor that surpasses the H95 and H190V. It is ideal for driving demanding speakers in larger rooms, offering more power than integrated models.
H30A
- The flagship power amplifier, designed for ultimate performance and flexibility.
- Delivers an astounding 1100 watts in mono mode, capable of driving any speaker with ease. Its advanced SoundEngine technology ensures smooth and natural sound, making it superior to the H20 in both power and detail.
Our take on the brand
Look inside the brand
Our interview with the brand
What are two key technological innovations or strong opinions that differ you from other brands?
What's your approach to customer support?
What are your favorite tracks for showcasing the strength of your products?
What other products pair best with yours?
Used
Hegel
What if you spend more?
The Hegel H400 amplifier, affectionately nicknamed Streamliner, is a masterpiece of streamlined design and performance. The H400 is engineered to deliver exceptional audio quality while maximizing efficiency and enhancing the user experience. Whether you are an audiophile or a casual listener, the H400 promises a remarkable listening journey.
The H400 is a Class AB amplifier, delivering 250W of power into 8 ohms, and is stable down to 2-ohm loads. With a remarkable damping factor of 4000, H400 ensures tight control over your speakers, providing precise and dynamic sound. H400's dual mono construction and symmetrical layout ensure superior sound quality. The absence of an equalizer preserves signal integrity, while our SoundEngine 2 technology offers instant distortion correction during amplification. This results in a detailed, agile sound, delivering both punch and finesse while maximizing power efficiency. Experience your favorite music with a new level of clarity and richness, as the H400 faithfully reproduces every nuance and detail.
The H400 incorporates many of the same advanced features found in our reference integrated amplifier, ensuring high performance and value. It includes the same Dual Mono design, the same robust streaming platform, and a high-quality bit-perfect DAC based on the one in the H600. These shared features mean that the H400 delivers similar high standards of sound quality and versatility, making it a remarkable choice for discerning listeners.
Every aspect of the H400 has been meticulously developed in-house, ensuring unparalleled quality control and cohesive design. This streamlined approach eliminates unnecessary steps and complications, allowing our engineers to focus on innovation and performance. By keeping development under one roof, we guarantee that every component and feature is perfectly integrated, enhancing overall efficiency and reliability. This in-house development strategy also allows for faster implementation of new features and improvements, ensuring the H400 remains at the forefront of audio technology.
Built from high-quality materials and components, the H400 is designed for durability and reliability, ensuring a long life, and minimizing the need for frequent maintenance. The SoundEngine 2 technology makes the H400 energy efficient, consuming minimal power while delivering top-tier performance. This technology, and the amplifier's auto standby feature, reduces energy waste and environmental impact without compromising sound quality.
Designed with simplicity and intuitive operation in mind, the H400 features a sleek, minimalist front with two multifunctional knobs for source selection and volume control. The knobs can also be pressed to mute, pause, or navigate the device menu. The central display is clear and easy to read from a distance, showing only essential information. To maintain a clean and uncluttered appearance, the power button is discreetly located underneath the amplifier. This thoughtful design ensures that nothing distracts from the beauty of your audio setup.
The H400 offers a comprehensive range of analog and digital inputs, ensuring seamless compatibility with various audio sources. Its impressive power, detail, and control means you can connect any speaker, even those very hard to drive. With automatic signal detection, the H400 instantly recognizes connected digital audio sources and switches to the correct input, eliminating the need for manual selection. All inputs can be set at a fixed high volume, enabling the use of home theatre preamps and multi-room devices. It even has a TV remote function that lets you use your TV remote to control the amplifier, making your home entertainment setup more intuitive and user-friendly.
The H400 is optimized for simplicity, supporting popular streaming platforms such as AirPlay, Spotify Connect, Roon Ready, Tidal Connect, Google Cast™, and UPnP. Users can control the amplifier through these services directly. Additionally, our Hegel Control App provides volume and input control, and access to internet radio, podcasts, and media server playback, enhancing the overall user experience. Whether you are streaming your favourite playlist or exploring new podcasts, the H400 makes it easy and enjoyable.
The H400 supports multi-room audio via Roon, AirPlay, and Google Cast, enabling synchronized music playback in different areas of your home. Imagine having the same high-quality audio in every room, seamlessly integrated with your smart home system. Enhance your home entertainment experience with the flexibility and convenience of the H400.
The Hegel H400 exemplifies streamlined design, offering an exceptional audio experience with ease of use and high value at its core. Discover the perfect blend of form and function with the H400, where every detail is designed to enhance your enjoyment of music.
.svg)
Product Strengths
- Powerful and controlled bass
- Neutral and transparent sound
- Detailed and refined sound
- Improved DAC offers better resolution and fluidity
- Supports various streaming platforms like Spotify Connect, Tidal Connect, Google Cast, AirPlay 2, UPnP and is Roon Ready
Product Considerations
- Aesthetic design may be simple or spartan
- Lacks a headphone output
- Absence of Wi-Fi, relying solely on Ethernet, could be a limitation
- Some reviewers note the Hegel Control app was pretty bare bones and not challenging more mature streaming app interfaces
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- H400 is in a different league than the H190, with substantially lower noise, a larger soundstage, and more detail
- H400 represents a step up in performance from the H390, with improved soundstage, imaging, bass control, midrange resolution, and top-end refinement
- H400 has better bass control than the Accuphase E280, while the Accuphase has a leaner tonal balance
- H400 has more scale and bass authority than the Trilogy 921 due to its higher power output
Takeaway: The Hegel H400 is a powerful and versatile integrated amplifier that delivers exceptional sound quality, offering a neutral, detailed, and refined listening experience. Its comprehensive streaming capabilities and improved DAC make it a great choice for audiophiles looking for a modern, all-in-one solution.
Video review
Our take on the brand
.png){kind=logo}
Enleum was launched as a new brand with the AMP-23R. While our legacy AMP-13R had already been praised all around the world for its performance and unique design, we pushed the boundaries to create the AMP-23R with a new circuit that truly enhances the existing performance. We have drastically improved the PCB circuit board design, chosen new internal components and upgraded our JET2 Bias design. And the reviews and awards are unanimous. The AMP-23R's physical size and footprint may be compact, but with the all new chassis and thermal heatsink design, we've launched a product that's fit for the next generation reference compact amplifier. The unique design is the DNA of our new Enleum Brand and was already awarded the Red Dot Award: Product Design 2021 and iF Design Gold Award 2022. The AMP-23R proudly showcases Enleum's expertise in technology and design.
Our summary
Product Strengths
- Addictive sound signature, unlike any other amp, with otherworldly instrument and voice reproduction
- Delivers serious magic with Fleetwood Deville and Klipsch Heritage speakers, revealing obscure details and creating a massive soundstage
- Dynamics for days
- Combines the qualities of a nice SET amp without the downsides, like noise or tube replacement
- Exceptional build quality and design with high-quality parts
- Only has two RCA inputs, no XLR balanced connections
Product Considerations
- Heavy speaker cables can cause the amp to tilt
- The volume dial functions as a gain dial, which may be different than what some users are accustomed to
- May not be suitable for hard-to-drive speakers in the 85db range that dip into 2–4 ohms
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- The AMP23R offers more texture, layering, mid-bass, and vocal presence than Nagra INT
- The AMP23R is more organic, ethereal, and dynamic than Kinki Studio EXM1
- It sounds better than the Vinnie Rossi L2iSE, so long as the speakers are easy to drive
- The Enleum has more delicacy and finesse than Pass Labs and Cary Audio
- The AMP23R stacks up with the finest gear such as ampsandsound Bryce monoblocks
- Pass Labs First Watt SIT-3 offers a bit more organic, warmer presentation
Takeaway: The Enleum AMP-23R is a small but mighty integrated amplifier with a unique and addictive sound signature, and it is built with high-quality components. It's a great choice for those with sensitive speakers looking for a reference-quality system in a compact package.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Product Strengths
- Exceptional build quality with a blend of expertly crafted wood and metal, creating a visually striking and durable statement piece
- Dynamic, rich, and effortless sound with excellent detail, texture, and the right amount of tube magic
- Powerful output capable of driving demanding headphones while maintaining clarity and control
- Versatile performance with a variety of headphones (dynamic and planar) due to its output transformer design, often improving sound for warm or neutral headphones
- Value added by its ability to be used as a pre-amplifier in a stereo system
Product Considerations
- Large size and weight (around 15kg) require ample desk space and sturdy furniture
- Generates heat, which could be a concern in warmer environments without adequate ventilation
- Accidental switching of 'On/Off' is possible due to the touch-sensitive bar in the front not being intuitive, so use with care around pets
- Too powerful for some very sensitive IEMs, potentially resulting in overwhelming sound or audible hiss, though this is not the intended design for the amplifier
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs HIFIMAN Susvara, Envy empowers Susvara's natural presentation while giving it all the dynamics and slam needed
- Vs Cayin HA-300MkII, Envy exhibits more linear mid-to-high frequencies and offers a more transparent sound, while HA-300MkII has a warmer—more engaging midrange
- Vs AURIS Headonia 2A3, Envy performs at the same level, with technically incredibly strong aspects
- Vs Octave V 16, Envy completely demolishes the V 16 when it comes to energy, control, timbre, and resolution
- Vs Ferrum OOR, Envy is more powerful sounding, while also being more detailed with better tonality
Takeaway:
The Felix Audio Envy is a high-end headphone amplifier for audio enthusiasts who want the best quality sound to bring out the magic in their favorite headphones. Its stunning design and versatile performance make it a worthwhile addition to any serious audiophile setup.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Product Strengths
- Combines comprehensive functionality, connectivity and usability with good performance, and elegant design
- Exceptional sound quality is described as refined, muscular, detailed, confident, transparent, and natural
- Easy to use, has a great control app, a remote, and an intuitive interface that removes itself from the system
- Well-built with premium materials, including CNC-machined aluminum casework, finned heat sinks, and a hefty toroidal transformer
- Has a musicality that makes it hard to be objective about, the music flows as you listen and makes you want to repeat
Product Considerations
- Overheating may occur due to undersized heatsinks under demanding conditions
- Naim's speaker connectors may be unique, although banana plugs are an acceptable workaround
- Although a detail performer, it isn't the quietest digital source or imaging performer in the market
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs Uniti Star: The Nova has a more substantial amplifier section, with greater current delivery and stability into tricky loads
- Vs SuperUniti: The Nova offers a more dynamic, detailed, fluid, and natural sound–with a bigger soundstage
- Vs Chord Electronics CPM2800 MkII: The Nova is closer spiritually to separates like the Chord CPM2800 MkII than to other all-in-one systems
- Vs NAD M10: The Naim Unit Nova has full unwavering control of the entire frequency range, from the deepest chest-thumping bass to the most delicate highs
- Vs Naim Uniti Atom: The Nova has more power to get a good result in bigger rooms, whereas the Atom needs to be in a smaller room
Takeaway: The Naim Uniti Nova is a well-designed and easy-to-use all-in-one system that combines comprehensive functionality with very good sound quality. It's a good choice for those who want a convenient and high-performing audio solution without the complexity of separates.
Video review
Our take on the brand
What competes at this price?
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Impressively great level of sound quality.
- Excellent bass definition and drive, delivering the best of both class A/B and class D amps in this regard.
- Transparent, clear, and balanced tonality, being smooth without being treble-shy, and dynamic without harshness.
- Includes a moving magnet phono stage derived from Hegel's V10 phono stage.
- Combines a streamer, DAC, phono pre-amp, pre-amplifier, and power amplifier in one integrated unit, offering excellent value.
Product Considerations
- Performance might be confined to medium efficiency speakers in medium-sized rooms.
- The Hegel H190v will not fix strident or thin-sounding speakers or rooms.
- Listeners who prefer tone-shaping electronics might not find it suitable.
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs Hegel H400: The H400 delivers more richness and focus in the bass, with more overall power and control compared to the H190V.
- Vs Hegel H190: The H190V is tighter with better defined bass.
- The sound from vinyl on H190v is more open and rich than from the MM input on the Yamaha R-N2000A.
Takeaway: The Hegel H190v is an impressive integrated amplifier with a wide range of features, especially for music lovers and audiophiles who want great quality sound and deep bass. It's a convenient and effective all-in-one solution for modern listening.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Packs many features into a small frame, offering an 'all-in-one' solution by integrating streaming, DAC, preamp, and amplification
- The sound quality is clear, detailed, smooth, refined, articulate, and neutral, with good soundstage and imaging
- Offers a wide array of input options (analog and digital) and streaming service compatibility, making it versatile
- Its Class D amplification (Hypex NCore) is powerful (150Wpc) and efficient, running cool compared to traditional amps
- The industrial design and aesthetics are highlighted positively, with its sleek look, swappable side panels, and user-friendly interface, enhancing its lifestyle appeal
Product Considerations
- The headphone preamp may not satisfy serious headphone enthusiasts without a dedicated amp
- There is a noted lack of bass management
- The StreamMagic app lags behind the likes of Bluesound and Yamaha MusicCast in terms of its interface
- Some reviewers found a slight softening of the bottom end
- One review notes some power supply noise in bench tests, but at inaudible levels
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Offers wider soundstage, depth, and polish than the Naim Uniti Atom, but the Naim Uniti Atom has a greater sense of musicality and tighter rhythmic fabric
Takeaway: The Cambridge Audio Evo 150 is a versatile and attractive all-in-one system with excellent sound quality and a comprehensive feature set, making it a great choice for those seeking a simple yet high-performing audio solution. It provides a streamlined experience without sacrificing sound fidelity.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Offers a comprehensive and flexible specification, functioning as a headphone amplifier and streaming preamp
- Produces superb sound quality, described as clear, pure, detailed, dynamic, and musical, without being overly analytical, regardless of genre or recording quality
- Features a well-made, elegant, and attractive design with a beautiful screen for album art and a satisfying volume control
- Supports a comprehensive range of streaming services and digital formats including AirPlay 2, Chromecast, Spotify Connect, Tidal Connect, Qobuz, Bluetooth, UPnP, and Internet Radio, and is Roon Ready
- Intuitive and stable app, especially for those who know what they want to listen to
Product Considerations
- The price is high relative to other headphone amplifiers/DACs on the market
- The front display is not a touchscreen
- Some might prefer a more analytical sound presentation
- The HDMI ARC connection is absent
- The Naim app lacks polish compared to dedicated music apps
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs Cambridge Audio Evo 150 and NAD M10—the Uniti Atom Headphone Edition is specifically focused on headphone use
- As a headphone amp, it is every bit as good as the Chord Hugo TT2
- Naim puts less of itself into the performance as opposed to McIntosh MHA200
Takeaway: The Uniti Atom Headphone Edition is a great self-contained system for headphone listening, with an easy-to-use interface and a beautiful design. It is a quality product that can be a centerpiece for your home audio.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Sonic clarity, detail resolution, and control
- Sturdy build and fine finish with solid casework and nicely damped
- Flexible product offering integrated, pre-amp, or pre-power combo options
- Balanced nature means that no particular genre of music is favored above any other
- Impressively equipped with a wide range of inputs including RCA, XLR, Coax, Optical, USB B, and Bluetooth 5.0 with aptX HD and LDAC
Product Considerations
- Dynamic contrasts could be stronger
- Rhythmic drive could be stronger
- Phono stage a little flat-footed
- The display graphics on the screen can be on the small side to read from across a room
- Treble could be more exciting and dynamic
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs Audiolab 6000A: Offers better instrumental separation, clarity of guitar strings, and a fuller bass response
- Vs Naim Nait XS3 or Rega Elicit Mk5: Delivers less entertainment and rhythmic drive
Takeaway: The Audiolab 9000A is a capable and flexible amplifier offering sonic clarity and a range of features to slot easily into most systems. It charms and delights, never forcing music onto your ears but always upgrading the sound for great speaker performance.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Ground-breakingly different than its predecessor (Elicit-R) and the Elex R, integrating the Athos sound and signature
- Combines musicality with a real sense of propulsion
- Taut, punchy, clear sound with impressive clarity and detail
- Excellent built-in moving magnet phono stage, delivering enjoyable results across various music genres
- Internal DAC is of good quality, sitting comfortably beside the analogue line stages in quality, with lively and punchy character, strong detail levels, and dynamic contrasts
- Lacks USB input or Bluetooth connectivity
Product Considerations
- May run hotter than usual
- Can sound a little bright tonally, requiring careful speaker choice
- Volume control steps on the remote may be too large for precise adjustments
- Functional looking rather than stylish
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs. Roksan K2: The Elicit MK5 is a brawny amplifier with a full package for the audiophile journey
- Vs. Exposure 3510: The Elicit has a decent headphone option and the MM input, while the Exposure would suit if one already has a decent phono stage and a DAC in place
- Vs. Cambridge Audio Edge NQ / 2 x PA-10: While the Edge / PA-10 setup justifies its higher sticker, the Rega Elicit MK5 has a ballsier take on music
Takeaway: The Rega Elicit MK5 is a well-built amplifier that delivers a detailed, clear, and punchy sound, making music sound great and alive. With its integrated DAC and phono stage, it is ready to be the heart of any great listening setup.
Video review
Our take on the brand
How to buy
Amplifiers
Search all hifi products
Explore our database of 10,000+ new and 25,000+ used hifi products.
