Hegel H95 Integrated Amplifier

1 700,00 €

The Hegel H95 is an integrated amplifier for a stereo system with analog, digital and network music sources. Its built-in digital-to-analog converter lets you connect digital sources directly to the amplifier. Analog RCA, optical, coaxial and USB inputs let you choose a connection that suits your equipment. Fixed-level input configuration also allows the H95 to join a system in which another component controls the volume.

Description

The Hegel H95 integrated amplifier is designed for a stereo system that uses both analog and digital music sources. It combines amplification with a built-in digital-to-analog converter, network playback functions and a headphone output. Its two-channel power rating is specified with an 8 Ω load. Keep that condition in mind when considering speakers for the system: the stated power and the minimum specified load describe different aspects of the amplifier.

Bringing sources into one stereo system

The analog inputs are for sources that already provide an analog signal. For a digital source, you can choose a coaxial RCA, optical or USB connection according to the output available on that source. With these connections, the converter inside the H95 turns the incoming digital signal into analog audio. The selection of optical inputs is useful if more than one of your sources has an optical output, so you can leave them connected and select the one you want to hear.

The H95 also has a network input and includes AirPlay, UPnP and Spotify Connect playback functions. These provide ways to play music over a network. The operation of a particular service depends on its current support, so check that before choosing a service for your system. The product information also lists remote software updates; it does not specify an update schedule or promise support for any particular future service.

Volume control and connections to other equipment

Every input can be configured as a fixed-level input. This is useful when another component, such as a home cinema system, needs to control the volume. Before selecting fixed level, make sure volume is set and controlled appropriately on that other component. For ordinary stereo listening with the H95 controlling the volume, leave the input in its variable-volume mode. Choosing the setting to match the way your system is controlled makes day-to-day use more straightforward.

A variable-level RCA preamplifier output is provided for a subwoofer or other equipment that accepts a line-level signal. Its output level changes with the amplifier’s volume setting, allowing the connected equipment to follow the main volume control. The headphone socket is on the front panel, where it can be reached without connecting headphones around the back of the unit.

Cabinet and shelf space

The black cabinet has an OLED display on its front panel. When choosing a shelf, allow for the stated dimensions, which include the feet, and leave additional room behind the amplifier for input and output cable plugs. If you expect to use headphones often, position the front panel where the socket is easy to reach. The shipping weight in the specifications refers to the packed shipment; it is not stated as the weight of the amplifier itself.

Before connecting speakers, check the load information supplied by their manufacturer. The H95 specification gives a minimum load of 2 Ω, while its 2 × 60 W power rating is stated at 8 Ω. The minimum load figure is therefore not another condition for the quoted power rating. The duration used for the power measurement is not given, so the published figure should be read with that limitation in mind.

Technical specifications

Type Integrated stereo amplifier with digital-to-analog converter and network playback functions
Technology SoundEngine2
Power 2 × 60 W at 8 Ω; power measurement duration not specified
Minimum specified load 2 Ω
Analog inputs 2 × unbalanced RCA
Digital inputs 1 × coaxial RCA, 3 × optical, 1 × USB
Network input 1
Network playback functions AirPlay, UPnP, built-in Spotify Connect
Input configuration All inputs can be configured as fixed-level inputs
Preamplifier output 1 × variable-level unbalanced RCA
Headphone output Front panel, 6.3 mm socket
Display OLED
Software Remote updates listed
Frequency range 5 Hz-100 kHz; tolerance not specified
Signal-to-noise ratio More than 100 dB
Channel crosstalk Less than -100 dB
Distortion Less than 0.01%, measured at 25 W, 8 Ω and 1 kHz
Intermodulation Less than 0.01%, using 19 kHz and 20 kHz signals
Damping factor More than 2000 in the main power output stage
Dimensions with feet 10 × 43 × 31 cm (height × width × depth); also stated as 3.93 × 16.93 × 12.20 in
Shipping weight 10.6 kg (23.37 lb); not the weight of the amplifier itself
Color Black

FAQ

Is this model suitable for a system with analog and digital sources?

Yes. Two RCA inputs are provided for analog sources, while digital sources can use an optical, coaxial or USB input. Choose the connection that matches the output on your source equipment. The H95’s built-in converter handles signals received through its digital inputs.

Which input should I use for a device with both optical and analog outputs?

An optical connection sends a digital signal to the H95’s converter. An analog RCA connection uses the conversion performed by the source device instead. These are two different ways to connect the same source, and you can compare them in your own system.

How can I use the amplifier in a home cinema system?

You can set the chosen input to fixed-level mode so that the home cinema component controls the volume. The same setting can be used in a system with centralized volume control. Check the volume arrangement on the controlling component before using that mode.

Can I connect a subwoofer to the preamplifier output?

Yes. The RCA preamplifier output is intended for this use, provided the subwoofer accepts a line-level signal. Adjust the subwoofer’s settings while listening to it together with the main speakers, so the combined sound suits your system.

How much space does the amplifier need?

Choose a shelf that accommodates the cabinet’s 43 cm width. The stated 31 cm depth covers the unit itself, so allow extra space behind it for cable plugs. Consider access to the front panel as well if you plan to connect headphones regularly.

Can I use the network functions without an additional music player?

The H95 has a network input and built-in network playback functions. Before relying on a particular service, check how it currently works with the software version you use. The available functions are listed above, but that list is not a promise of ongoing service support.