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Hegel H200 and A200 Offer Connected and Analog Amplifier Paths

Hegel has introduced two 150-watt integrated amplifiers built around different system philosophies: the streaming-equipped H200 and the all-analog A200.

Hegel has introduced two 150-watt integrated amplifiers built around different system philosophies: the streaming-equipped H200 and the all-analog A200.

Hegel has unveiled the H200 and A200, two integrated amplifiers that share a 150-watt-per-channel Class A/B platform but address distinctly different hi-fi systems. The H200 brings streaming, digital conversion and analog connectivity into one component, while the A200 removes digital circuitry entirely for listeners committed to separate source equipment.

One amplifier platform, two system strategies

Hegel describes the H200 as “The Connected,” reflecting its role as a comprehensive hub for modern music systems. It combines network playback, a built-in DAC, analog inputs, an MM phono stage and headphone listening with the company’s amplification technology.

The A200, designated “The Classic,” takes the opposite approach. It retains the same rated output power while restricting its signal path and connections to analog sources. It is intended for systems already built around a favored external DAC, streamer, CD player, tuner, turntable or other dedicated component.

The H200 has been developed as a complete integrated amplifier in which all components work together with the amplifier as the central point.
The H200 has been developed as a complete integrated amplifier in which all components work together with the amplifier as the central point.

Both models use Hegel’s SoundEngine2 technology, which is designed to identify and reduce distortion as it occurs. Their amplifier sections are specified as stable into loads down to 2 ohms, with a damping factor greater than 4,000. These figures position both amplifiers to accommodate a broad range of loudspeaker loads while maintaining electrical control over driver movement.

H200 combines streaming, DAC and analog sources

The H200 provides one balanced XLR input and two unbalanced RCA inputs, along with fixed and variable line-level outputs. A headphone output is also included. Its built-in moving-magnet phono input is derived from the MM section of Hegel’s separate V10 phono preamplifier and employs hand-matched FET gain stages with selected operational amplifiers.

In addition to digital functions, the H200 has a strong analog foundation.
In addition to digital functions, the H200 has a strong analog foundation.

Digital sources can connect through coaxial, optical, USB-A, USB-B or the network interface. The USB-A port supports direct playback from storage devices containing libraries of up to 10,000 tracks. Network functions cover music streaming, internet radio, podcasts and playback from locally stored libraries.

Hegel says the H200’s digital design addresses more than the choice of conversion chip. Power delivery, grounding, clocking, signal routing, filtering and digital-noise reduction were considered together, with separate circuit boards and physical shielding used to isolate digital sections from the analog circuitry.

Broad service support and system control

The H200 supports Spotify Connect Lossless, TIDAL Connect, Qobuz Connect, Apple AirPlay, Google Cast and Roon Ready operation. Hegel’s Control app adds source selection, volume adjustment, playback management, internet radio, podcast access and music-library search.

The H200 supports  Spotify Connect Lossless,  TIDAL Connect,  Qobuz Connect,  Apple AirPlay,  Google Cast, and  Roon Ready.
The H200 supports Spotify Connect Lossless, TIDAL Connect, Qobuz Connect, Apple AirPlay, Google Cast, and Roon Ready.

Convenience features include signal-sensing power-on, compatibility with learned television remote commands, fixed volume settings for individual inputs, adjustable startup and maximum volume levels, automatic standby and an automatically dimming display. Integration with Control4, Crestron HOME and Crestron SIMPL is also supported.

Hegel plans to provide firmware, app and feature updates for the connected model. A coaxial digital output and DAC Loop function allow an external converter to be added later, while the H200 continues to handle source selection, network playback, volume control and amplification.

A200 keeps the signal path entirely analog

The A200 omits a DAC, streaming hardware and digital inputs. Its connections consist of two balanced XLR inputs and two unbalanced RCA inputs, giving owners the freedom to select separate source components without duplicating digital functions inside the amplifier.

The A200 is an integrated amplifier for listeners who want an amplifier to simply remain an amplifier.
The A200 is an integrated amplifier for listeners who want an amplifier to simply remain an amplifier.

Output options include a fixed RCA line output for equipment such as a recorder or second system, plus a variable RCA output that follows the A200’s volume control. The latter can feed a subwoofer or external power amplifier. A dedicated headphone output is included as well.

Vinyl playback is handled by an integrated MM phono stage based on the corresponding section of Hegel’s V10. As in the H200, the circuit uses selected FET transistors and operational amplifiers. This gives the analog-only model a direct connection for compatible turntables without requiring a separate phono preamplifier.

By retaining the 150-watt-per-channel Class A/B output stage and SoundEngine2 architecture while excluding digital subsystems, the A200 offers a more focused alternative for listeners who prefer each component in their system to perform a single role.

The A200 does not dictate which source equipment you use. Its task is to provide every connected device with a stable, clean, and powerful analog foundation.
The A200 does not dictate which source equipment you use. Its task is to provide every connected device with a stable, clean, and powerful analog foundation.

Availability

Hegel plans to begin supplying the H200 from late August. Availability timing for the A200 has not been specified in the supplied announcement.

The H200 and A200 give Hegel’s integrated-amplifier lineup two clearly separated directions. Buyers seeking a single control center gain extensive streaming and conversion facilities with the H200, while the A200 concentrates on analog amplification for systems assembled from dedicated sources.

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