Hegel H400: Uncompromising analog high-end stereo amplifier with digital qualities

The H400 is a robust 2 x 250 watt analog Dual Mono stereo amplifier that offers exceptional power to drive high-end speakers with precision. It embodies the signature Hegel qualities of strength and musicality, delivering a vast soundscape rich in dynamics and details.

In comparison to its award-winning predecessor, the H390, the H400 boasts upgrades such as an advanced streaming module and new D/A converter for a more open and musical sound. These enhancements, inspired by the flagship H600 model, along with a sturdier mechanical design, promise an elevated listening experience.

A notable addition is the Hegel Control app, providing convenient control over music playback and amplifier functions. With continuous updates planned, users can expect even more features at their fingertips in the future.

Perfect match for demanding speakers

The H400 offers exceptional performance at a more affordable price point compared to the top model H600, making it a great choice for those willing to sacrifice a few connections and some power. It is a stable amplifier that can handle loads down to 2 ohms, making it a perfect match for high-end floor speakers like the 800 series from Bowers & Wilkins and top series from DALI. With its ability to bring out the best in both recordings and speakers, every music listening session with the H400 will be a truly immersive experience. Whether you prefer vinyl, CD, or streaming, the H400 has you covered with its versatile features, including digital inputs and built-in network streaming. Simply add a quality RIAA amplifier like Hegel’s V10 to enjoy your vinyl collection through the H400. The sleek aluminum front panel with minimalistic design elements reflects the amplifier’s confident and understated performance, much like an iceberg with hidden depths beneath the surface.

Smart TV sound via your existing TV remote control

The engineers at Hegel have implemented a clever feature in the H400 that enhances its functionality for TV sound, despite the absence of an HDMI input. By connecting the TV sound through the optical input and specifying your TV brand to the amplifier, it will automatically switch to the TV input when you adjust the volume using the TV remote. This convenient setup allows for seamless control of the sound output. Additionally, through the amplifier’s menu, you can customize settings such as the start-up volume and maximum volume limit for added features like child protection. The TV sound feature is compatible with a wide range of newer TV models from brands like Samsung, Sony, LG, Philips, Apple TV, and more.

Superb sound from all your digital sound sources and PC

The H400 features digital audio inputs through coaxial, optical, and USB connections, enabling it to serve as an exceptional D/A converter (DAC) for various digital audio devices, such as CD players and wireless music streamers like Bluesound, Denon, and Sonos. With the USB-B input, the H400 allows for pristine digital playback of your music library from PC or Mac, supporting DSD and high-resolution audio files up to 32-bit/384kHz. Additionally, it includes built-in network capabilities with Spotify Connect, TIDAL Connect, AirPlay, Roon Ready, and Google Cast, granting you access to a continually expanding library of music tracks in genuine 24-bit quality. The HD sound delivered through a Hegel amplifier provides a truly distinctive musical experience, merging the finest elements of both modern and traditional hi-fi systems. The H400’s new streaming module supports ongoing online updates, allowing for the addition of new features and streaming services in the future.

The H400 offers a variety of connection options, allowing you to create a customized setup tailored to your preferences. With both fixed and variable analog Pre-Outs, you can easily connect a high-quality headphone amplifier, a subwoofer, or a separate power amplifier. Additionally, the digital Pre-Out via BNC enables you to integrate an external DAC or room correction unit into the signal chain, allowing for signal feedback to the amplifier. For those seeking the highest quality in both stereo and surround sound, you can configure one of the H400’s inputs to a “Fixed” sound level and connect it to the Pre-Out of your surround receiver. This setup allows the H400 to function as a premium power amplifier for your front speakers during surround sound use. When switching back to sources like a CD player or music streamer, you can enjoy a luxurious stereo experience. This configuration allows you to maintain a surround system for multi-channel audio when enjoying films, while still prioritizing high-quality two-channel music playback. It presents a straightforward and elegant solution. By utilizing the Fixed setting, you can also connect a music streamer from brands like Bluesound or Sonos, enabling complete control over music selection and volume through the streaming app.

Roon ready

Roon is a music player designed for PC, gaining popularity among audiophiles globally. It allows users to play downloaded 24-bit audio files from sources like American HDtracks and offers integration with TIDAL Max, enabling streaming of an expanding library of albums in 24-bit quality. While Roon may present a steeper learning curve compared to more familiar applications like Spotify, TIDAL, and Deezer, it does allow for music control via a mobile device as long as the PC remains powered on. This feature marks a significant improvement over earlier PC-based music players, which required users to interact directly with the keyboard for music selection. The effort is rewarded with the exceptional clarity of high-resolution 24-bit sound emanating from your speakers.

Hegel – uncompromising quality and authentic sound

Norwegian Hegel has its origins dating back to the late 1980s, and over the years has evolved into one of the most esteemed brands in the hi-fi industry, earning recognition from both critics and music enthusiasts. Today, Hegel’s award-winning products are available worldwide and consistently excel in tests, captivating the hearts of listeners with their exceptional musical qualities. Hegel has distinguished itself as a proponent of analog sound excellence at its finest. Their amplifiers seamlessly blend precise clarity with analog warmth and musicality, offering an unparalleled listening experience for those who appreciate this combination, regardless of the cost. The ultimate objective is to provide music lovers with a natural and immersive listening experience. To achieve this, Hegel uses the authentic sound of acoustic instruments and the voices of renowned artists as their primary benchmark. Anything less than perfection is unacceptable when striving for the ideal sound.

See also

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