The H150 from the Norwegian manufacturer Hegel is the successor to the H120. Designed as a true all-in-one solution, the H150 offers excellent audio performance and ease of use. For the first time, Hegel has included a USB input, allowing direct connection of a USB storage device to the amplifier. Vinyl enthusiasts will appreciate the built-in phono amplifier. Deliveries will begin at the end of October.
The H150 Streaming Amplifier is, according to the engineers at the Norway-based manufacturer Hegel, their most impressive product yet. Hence the nickname “Prodigy.” While the H150 is the entry-level model in Hegel’s portfolio, its level of performance and versatility is typically reserved for much more expensive models. While inspired by Hegel’s reference products, the H150 also enhances the user experience with its own unique solutions. With a wealth of connectivity options and a powerful, clear amplifier section, the H150 is a true all-in-one music solution. It fits seamlessly into a wide variety of rooms and can confidently drive virtually any speaker.
Hegel H150: technical design and construction
While the H150 is a full-width amplifier designed to complement standard hi-fi components, its depth of just 35 centimeters makes it easy to place on or inside most shelves and hi-fi furniture. Available in both black and white, the H150’s sleek, understated design complements any interior. Its robust construction includes a thick, precision-milled aluminum front panel and control knobs, with a steel top panel featuring ventilation openings, contributing to its compact, modern look. A central OLED display provides clear information from a distance and can be dimmed or turned off completely to suit your environment.
Hegel H150: Integrated amplifier with high damping factor
The H150’s 2x 75 Watts of power may seem modest, but it’s no ordinary amplifier. It features a dedicated Class AB amplifier design with Hegel’s proprietary SoundEngine 2 technology, which delivers a class-leading damping factor of 2,000 and stable operation down to two ohms. SoundEngine 2 preserves musical detail and dynamics with astonishing clarity, delivering an immersive and lifelike listening experience. Powering the H150 are a large, ultra-low-noise toroidal transformer and high-speed capacitors, which deliver instantaneous current. This gives the H150 the grip and punch to easily drive all but the most demanding speakers (which are rare).
The specified frequency range is from 5 Hz to 100 kHz. The S/N ratio and channel separation are both greater than 100 dB.
Hegel H150: efficiency through in-house development
Every aspect of the H150 has been developed in-house by Hegel, ensuring unparalleled quality control and a cohesive design. This streamlined approach eliminates unnecessary steps and complications, allowing engineers to focus on innovation and performance. By keeping development under one roof, the manufacturer ensures that every component and function is perfectly integrated, enhancing overall efficiency and reliability. This in-house development strategy also allows for faster implementation of new features and improvements, keeping the H150 at the forefront of audio technology.
Hegel H150: built-in DA converter
The H150 houses a competent, custom-designed four-layer digital-to-analog converter (DAC). Inspired by the acclaimed Viking CD player, it utilizes Hegel’s latest digital developments to extract rich, detailed sound from both connected digital sources and the internal streaming section.
Hegel H150: Streaming made easy
Speaking of streaming, the H150 supports a wide range of streaming options right out of the box, including Spotify Connect, Tidal Connect, Qobuz Connect, Google Cast, Apple AirPlay, and UPnP, all built-in, providing seamless access to these popular services. The list is constantly growing, and automatic firmware updates ensure users are always up-to-date with new services. The H150 is a modern performer that effortlessly stays ahead of the curve.
Hegel H150: digital connections
The Hegel H150 has four digital inputs for source devices: 2 x optical, 1 x coaxial RCA, and 1 x USB type B. The RJ45 LAN port provides network access for use with a NAS or an internet streaming service.
The new USB-A port for Hegel allows you to connect a USB storage device (and can even charge a phone or laptop if needed), with browsing the library on the USB storage device controlled by the Hegel Control app. A coaxial digital output can route signals from the digital inputs to active speakers, a second system, or an external DAC in a DAC loop mode, enhancing the digital stage without sacrificing the functionality of the H150. This level of flexibility is rare in amplifiers of this caliber.
Hegel H150: analog connections
The H150 isn’t just great with digital sources. It also leaves nothing to chance when it comes to analog. The H150 features an unbalanced analog RCA input and a (balanced) XLR input. The built-in turntable input is compatible with MM cartridges. The amplifier also has a headphone output and a variable line output, making it easy to add subwoofers or external power amplifiers.
Hegel H150: everyday ease of use
The H150 is designed for optimal ease of use. Everyone in the house can enjoy the H150 without reading the manual. Input detection on digital inputs and streaming activates the amplifier and automatically selects the correct source, while the adjustable automatic standby saves energy after listening has stopped.
Popular TV remote control codes are preloaded for seamless volume and power control with a TV remote. Each input can be set to a high output level, allowing the user to control the volume with any connected device, such as an AV receiver or multi-room streamer. Multi-room is also available directly in the amplifier via AirPlay, Google Cast, or Roon, and voice commands via Google Home or Apple Home are just a word away.
Control is also possible via the elegant aluminum remote control or the free Hegel Control app, which offers full input and volume control, plus built-in internet radio and podcasts via Airable. The result is an amplifier that makes advanced performance accessible to all users.
Hegel H150: price and delivery information
The Hegel H150 will be available from the end of October for a price of just under $3,000.
