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Integrated amplifiers — Hegel H590
Description, images, technical data and specifications
Hegel H590
Image source — © Hegel
The H590 is an integrated amplifier with a built-in DAC from Hegel, built with an exceptionally high damping factor. Hegel is a Norwegian manufacturer with a serious reputation for measurement-focused amplifier engineering, and the H590 sits at the very top of the brand's integrated amplifier catalogue.
Position in line
It sits above the H390 and H200 in Hegel's integrated amplifier range, as the brand's current flagship model. This flagship positioning confirms the H590 represents Hegel's fullest engineering ambition for a single-chassis integrated amplifier, incorporating the brand's most refined circuit design and highest rated output.
Key specs that matter
Two balanced and three single-ended inputs are provided. Rated output is 301 W into 8 ohms. Rated bandwidth is 5 Hz to 180 kHz. Signal-to-noise exceeds 100 dB with distortion at 0.005%. Damping factor exceeds 4000, an exceptionally high figure. At 171 x 430 x 445 mm and 22 kg it is a substantial chassis, consistent with the serious power supply this flagship model carries.
Sound and use context
Expect an extremely controlled presentation with the exceptionally high damping factor pointing to very firm grip on loudspeaker cone motion - a reference-level performer within the integrated amplifier category, reflecting Hegel's characteristic engineering-led approach.
Pairing
Two balanced and three single-ended inputs cover an extensive source lineup without needing external switching, comprehensive for most typical two-channel systems.
Alternatives
The H390 and H200 sit below this model in Hegel's integrated amplifier range at more accessible output levels, worth considering if this flagship's exceptional 301 W output and price exceed what a specific system requires. Hegel extensive dealer network across major markets makes arranging a direct comparison against the H390 practical, helping clarify whether the flagship price difference translates into a meaningful audible improvement for a specific system. Given the considerable 22 kg weight, a solid, well-supported equipment shelf is worth confirming before installation of this reference-tier integrated amplifier. Overall this remains an uncompromising flagship choice reflecting Hegel absolute best integrated amplifier engineering. A dealer visit remains the simplest way to compare current pricing across Hegel integrated amplifier range.
Position in line
It sits above the H390 and H200 in Hegel's integrated amplifier range, as the brand's current flagship model. This flagship positioning confirms the H590 represents Hegel's fullest engineering ambition for a single-chassis integrated amplifier, incorporating the brand's most refined circuit design and highest rated output.
Key specs that matter
Two balanced and three single-ended inputs are provided. Rated output is 301 W into 8 ohms. Rated bandwidth is 5 Hz to 180 kHz. Signal-to-noise exceeds 100 dB with distortion at 0.005%. Damping factor exceeds 4000, an exceptionally high figure. At 171 x 430 x 445 mm and 22 kg it is a substantial chassis, consistent with the serious power supply this flagship model carries.
Sound and use context
Expect an extremely controlled presentation with the exceptionally high damping factor pointing to very firm grip on loudspeaker cone motion - a reference-level performer within the integrated amplifier category, reflecting Hegel's characteristic engineering-led approach.
Pairing
Two balanced and three single-ended inputs cover an extensive source lineup without needing external switching, comprehensive for most typical two-channel systems.
Alternatives
The H390 and H200 sit below this model in Hegel's integrated amplifier range at more accessible output levels, worth considering if this flagship's exceptional 301 W output and price exceed what a specific system requires. Hegel extensive dealer network across major markets makes arranging a direct comparison against the H390 practical, helping clarify whether the flagship price difference translates into a meaningful audible improvement for a specific system. Given the considerable 22 kg weight, a solid, well-supported equipment shelf is worth confirming before installation of this reference-tier integrated amplifier. Overall this remains an uncompromising flagship choice reflecting Hegel absolute best integrated amplifier engineering. A dealer visit remains the simplest way to compare current pricing across Hegel integrated amplifier range.
Specifications
Model name
H590
Type
Integrated Amplifier with DAC
Analog inputs (balanced)
2
Analog inputs (single-ended)
3
Input sensitivity (mV)
N/A
Input impedance (balanced) (Ω)
10 000
Input impedance (single-ended) (Ω)
10 000
Output impedance (balanced) (Ω)
N/A
Output impedance (single-ended) (Ω)
N/A
D/A conversion
Yes
Phono MM/MC current-sensing input impedance (Ω)
N/A
Output power (8Ω) (W)
301
Output power (4Ω) (W)
N/A
Gain (dBu)
N/A
Frequency response low +/- 3dB (Hz)
5
Frequency response high +/- 3dB (Hz)
180 000
Signal to Noise Ratio (dB)
>100
Total Harmonic Distortion + Noise (%)
0.005
Damping factor
>4000
Dimensions (mm)
171 x 430 x 445
Weight (kg)
22
Official link
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