Hegel introduced their new flagship integrated amplifier, the H590.
The H590 delivers 301W into 8Ω. Via its digital inputs it accepts PCM up to 24/384, DSD up to DSD256, UPnP, Apple AirPlay, Spotify Connect and it does the second unfold of MQA.
Its analog connectivity comprises 2 balanced XLR inputs and 3 single-ended RCA inputs, and a fixed and a variable RCA output. On the digital side it provides one BNC, one RCA coaxial, one USB and 3 optical digital inputs, and one BNC digital output. There is also has an ethernet network input which provides the H590 with streaming capabilities.
The H590 brings not only a massive power output, but an advances in its DAC, streaming, preamp and power amp sections which yield Hegel's best sounding integrated amp, second only to its award-winning P30 and H30 separates.
The H590 was on demo driving a pair of KEF Blade speakers. The system sounded very fine indeed, with the deep, controlled bass, seamless, full-range sound, realism and dynamics, and fine resolution, all with wonderful imaging an a great soundstage. An excellent sound.
© Wayne Butcher
