The Hegel H190 model occupies a niche between the flagship H390 and the more budget “integrated” Hegel H120 in the brand’s line of complete amplifiers. The main difference between the new product and its predecessor H160 was a clear OLED display that replaced the vacuum fluorescent indicator and an increased damping coefficient. Well, plus this, the amplifier is now available not only in conservative black, but also in extravagant white.
The design uses the legendary Sound Engine 2 technology, developed by Hegel founder Bent Holter for Telenor 20 years ago, which allows you to adjust the signal entering the amplifier in real time. In this case, instead of traditional feedback, direct communication is used in the circuits. All this helps to minimize various types of distortion, make the sound cleaner and smoother, increase the damping factor and enhance bass dynamics.
Hegel H190 is perhaps one of the most versatile devices today. The model has a built-in DAC, a USB port, a high-quality headphone amplifier on the JRC4556AD chip and can be used as a terminal in a recreation center. The AirPlay function is supported, but a Wi-Fi module is not provided in this “integrated device”, so to implement it, the H190 must be connected to a local network via a LAN interface (DLNA and UPnP protocols are supported). For AirPlay to function, iOS devices must be connected to the same network. Thanks to the built-in DLNA streaming module, you can play files from NAS servers and computers in resolutions up to 24 bit/192 kHz.
The power supply contains a toroidal transformer and 6 high-capacity capacitors. The H190 delivers up to 150W (8 ohms) per channel and boasts a damping factor of over 4000. This means that the amplifier will subjugate even the most capricious speaker systems. The output stage of the Hegel H190 uses fast Japanese-made transistors.
The device is made in a strict “Hegelian” design. On the slightly convex aluminum front panel there is a display showing the selected input, power indicator and other symbols. There is a volume control and a 6.3 mm headphone jack on the right, and an input selector on the left. The power button is located on the bottom of the case. There is a remote control that can also control playback of software media player tracks when connected to a computer via USB.
Inputs: linear RCA, balanced XLR, RCA for direct access to the final stage (relevant for DC), three optical, coaxial, USB and LAN. Outputs: fixed line and variable (both on RCA connectors). There are two pairs of screw terminals for connection to the speakers.
The Hegel H190 amplifier has a clear, open sound with excellent resolution and tight, dynamic bass. The model also allows you to significantly improve the sound of sources such as smartphones, tablets, etc.
Characteristics of Hegel H190
Output power 2 x 150 W (8 Ohms), 2 x 250 W (4 Ohms)
Headphone amplifier output power 2 x 270 mW (64 Ohms )
Frequency range 5 Hz – 100 kHz
Signal-to-noise ratio more than 100 dB
Crosstalk distortion less than – 100 dB
Harmonic distortion 0.005% (50 W, 8 ohms, 1 kHz)
Intermodulation distortion less than 0.01% (19 kHz + 20 kHz)
Damping factor more than 4000
AirPlay support available (with wired connection via LAN)
Support for DLNA and UPnP protocols available
DAC AKM4396 (24 bit/192 kHz)
Inputs linear RCA, balanced XLR, fixed Home Theater Max Level Input (RCA) for direct access to final stage, 3 optical (24 bit/192 kHz), coaxial (24 bit/192 kHz), USB port (24 bit/96 kHz), LAN (Network)
6.3 mm headphone outputs, line fixed (RCA) and adjustable (RCA)
Speaker output 2 pairs of screw terminals
Power supply toroidal transformer, 6 Nover capacitors of 10000 uF each
Remote control Hegel RC 8, universal
Dimensions (WxHxD) 430x120x410 mm
Weight 19 kg (with packaging)
