The Hegel H20 power amplifier is a logical continuation of the Hegel H10 model, which was released on the occasion of the company’s anniversary in a limited edition of 30 copies. Those who were unable to purchase it now have a chance to get a more advanced model at a lower price. Compared to the H10, SoundEngine modules were added, subject to special computer configuration. What’s also new is that the top and side panels of the Hegel H20 are made of anodized metal, which gives the device additional solidity and allows you to expect a reduction in the possibility of vibrations. The front panel with a single on/off button is made of aluminum, its weight is 1.5 kg. The top cover and sides of the power box are also made of anodized aluminum. All external surfaces of the device, except for the tray and the rear wall, were treated with glass powder.
On the back of the Hegel H20 there are four pairs of high-quality gold-plated speaker terminals, as well as one RCA line input and one balanced XLR input. There are two input switches (for left and right channels separately).
The Hegel H20 power amplifier borrows a lot from the older H30 model. Its design uses new field-effect transistors. Branded patented SoundEngine modules are used, the purpose of which is to eliminate any kind of distortion and ensure the cleanest and most dynamic sound possible. The input signal is constantly monitored using special circuits installed in the amplifier stages. If a deviation from the norm is noticed, then this information goes to a common processing unit – a threshold detector, which determines whether correction is needed or not. This technology can significantly reduce intermodulation distortion.
The damping coefficient of this model is simply huge – more than 1000 units. This removes any restrictions in terms of selection of speaker systems. In addition, the device has a solid 1000 VA transformer, and the total capacitance of the power supply capacitors is 90,000 uF. The amplifier is built on the “dual mono” principle and develops a power of 200 W per channel (with a load of 8 ohms) and as much as 350 W at 4 ohms. The output stage uses 20 bipolar transistors. The developers have minimized the number of components along the signal path in order to obtain the most reliable sound.
The company recommends using the Hegel H20 in conjunction with the P20 preamplifier, but emphasizes that it can work well in other combinations. The amplifier’s sound is dynamic, rhythmic, natural and has a strong, well-articulated bass foundation. The Hegel H20 creates an excellent soundstage that allows you to determine the position of the musicians in space.
Hegel H20 Specifications
Output power: over 200W + 200W into 8 ohms, Dual mono
Inputs: RCA unbalanced and balanced XLR
Speaker outputs: two pairs of high-strength gold-plated terminals
Input impedance: balanced 10 kohms, unbalanced 50 kohms
Frequency response: Less than +/- 0.2 dB deviation 20 Hz – 20 kHz
Phase response: less than 2 degrees deviation 20 Hz – 20 kHz
Signal to noise ratio: more than 100 dB
Crosstalk: less than -100 dB
Distortion: Less than 0.006% at 100 W and 8 ohms
Intermodulation: less than 0.01% (19 kHz + 20 kHz)
Damping factor: more than 1000
Power supply: 1000 VA dual mono capacitors, 90,000 uF
Output stage: 20 pcs. 15A 200W high speed, ultra-low distortion bipolar transistors
Power consumption: 60W standby on
Dimensions 12cm x 43cm x 37cm (HxWxD),
Weight 25kg
