Hegel H30A Power Amplifier

Hegel H30A power amplifier is Hegel’s reference model for systems built around a separate preamplifier. It is designed primarily for mono operation, although a single chassis can also operate in stereo. Its “Orchestra” nickname reflects its position within Hegel’s amplifier range.

In mono mode, output exceeds 1100 W into 8 ohms at 1 kHz and 1% THD. This measurement applies with a 100, 120, or 230 V AC supply. The stated output must not be applied to other impedances or to stereo operation.

Choosing a mono or stereo system

A monoblock system requires one amplifier for each channel. This arrangement gives every stereo channel its own power-supply and amplification chassis. Alternatively, one H30A can be configured for stereo operation when a single-unit installation is preferred. No stereo-channel power rating is specified.

Power-supply and amplification architecture

The 2000 VA dual-mono power supply uses two separate 1000 VA toroidal transformers. Total capacitor storage is 270,000 µF.

The output stage contains 56 high-speed bipolar transistors with ultra-low distortion. Each transistor is rated at 15 A and 200 W. The input stage uses one carefully hand-matched pair of FET transistors. According to the manufacturer, this pair is selected to reduce higher-order harmonic distortion.

Patented SoundEngine technology monitors signal distortion during amplification. It uses a feed-forward error-correction principle to correct detected changes in the signal.

Analogue and speaker connections

Choose the balanced XLR input when using a preamplifier or processor with a balanced output. Its input impedance is 20 kilohms. The unbalanced RCA input accepts an unbalanced analogue output and has an impedance of 10 kilohms.

A speaker connects to one pair of heavy-duty, gold-plated binding posts. The minimum rated load is 1 ohm. This figure describes the amplifier’s load limit, not a published output rating into 1 ohm.

Operating mode and power control

Select mono or stereo mode according to the intended system layout. Listening volume is controlled by the preamplifier, processor, or another source equipped with a variable analogue output.

A 12 V trigger input allows the amplifier’s power state to follow a controller with a compatible trigger output. This is useful in systems where several audio components need to switch on together.

Placement and ventilation

The 47.4 kg chassis requires a shelf or equipment rack designed to support its weight. Its 57.5 cm depth also calls for additional room behind the amplifier for connectors and cable bends.

The amplifier consumes 120 W with no signal, so adequate space must be left around the chassis for air circulation. Plan both the dimensions and final location before moving the unit into position.

Technical specifications

FAQ

Can the amplifier be connected directly to a DAC or network player?

Yes, provided that the source has a variable analogue output and reliable volume control. A fixed-level output requires a separate preamplifier.

How does input impedance differ from speaker load?

The 20 and 10 kilohm figures describe the load presented to the preamplifier’s output. The 1-ohm figure applies to the speaker connected to the amplifier’s output.

What does a damping factor greater than 500 mean?

This mono-mode figure describes the amplifier’s ability to control the electrical damping of the speaker driver’s movement. The final result also depends on the speaker and cable.

Does 1-ohm stability mean 1100 W into 1 ohm?

No. The output of more than 1100 W is specified only into an 8-ohm load under the stated measurement conditions. One ohm is the minimum rated load figure.

How should I prepare a location for this amplifier?

Use a support rated for the amplifier’s weight and leave sufficient space for air circulation. Allow room behind the chassis for signal, speaker, and power cables.