Hegel H95 Integrated Amplifier

The Hegel H95 is an entry-level high-end integrated amplifier offering 60W per channel, advanced SoundEngine2 technology, high-quality DAC, and versatile streaming capabilities.
Overview
The Hegel H95 is designed as the entry point to Hegel’s integrated amplifier range, delivering the brand’s signature sound quality in a compact and affordable package  hegel.com+1. Despite its modest appearance, it provides 60 watts per channel, sufficient to drive most small to medium-sized speakers with confidence  StereoNET North America. The amplifier is built to handle both digital and analog sources, making it a versatile central component for home audio systems 
Key Features
SoundEngine2 Technology: Hegel’s proprietary system actively monitors and corrects distortion in real time, including harmonic, noise, and crossover distortions, resulting in a clean, natural sound  
High-Quality DAC: The H95 includes an in-house designed DAC capable of handling digital inputs up to 192kHz/24-bit, supporting formats like WAV, FLAC, ALAC, Ogg, and MP3 
Streaming and Connectivity: Supports Apple AirPlay, UPnP, and Spotify Connect, with future AirPlay2 compatibility via firmware updates. Inputs include USB, optical, coaxial, and analog connections, plus a high-quality headphone output and variable pre-out for subwoofers  
Control and Ergonomics: Features a sleek OLED display, TV remote functionality, and configurable input levels. The amplifier allows setting maximum volume limits for safety 
Performance
The H95 is praised for its dynamic, agile bass response and high damping factor, which exceeds 2000, giving exceptional speaker control for an amplifier under 100 watts. Reviews highlight its transparent sound, clean channel separation, and musicality, making it feel like a higher-end model despite its entry-level positioning 

Background
Hegel Music Systems, founded by Bent Holter, developed the H95 based on the same principles as their flagship models. The company’s name comes from a metal band Holter played in, not the philosopher, and the SoundEngine technology originated from Holter’s early experiments to reduce distortion in amplifiers  

Considerations
While the H95 offers extensive features, some high-end functionalities like Roon endpoint support, Bluetooth, turntable input, and built-in internet radio are omitted to maintain its price point  . The included remote is simpler than higher-tier models, but an optional RC10 remote is available for additional control

Conclusion
The Hegel H95 is a highly capable entry-level integrated amplifier that combines advanced distortion-canceling technology, high-quality digital conversion, and versatile streaming options. It is ideal for users seeking a compact, musically engaging amplifier that can serve as the central hub of a modern hi-fi system without compromising on sound quality or connectivity

Technical Specifications
Power output: 2 x 60 W into 8 Ω @ 1kHz 1% THD, 100/120/230V AC
Minimum load: 2 Ω
Analog Inputs:  2 x unbalanced (RCA)
Digital Inputs: 1 x coaxial (RCA), 3 x optical, 1 x USB, 1 x Network
Line level Output: 1 x unbalanced variable (RCA)
Headphone Output: 6.3 mm Jack (front)
Streaming: AirPlay, Spotify Connect (Not Lossless), UPnP, JPLAY Certified
Streaming formats: MP3, WAV, FLAC, ALAC, AAC, PCM, Ogg
Frequency response: 5 Hz - 100 kHz
Signal-to-noise ratio: More than 100 dB
Crosstalk: Less than -100 dB
Distortion: Less than 0.01% @ 25 W/8 Ω/1 kHz
Intermodulation: Less than 0.01% (19 kHz + 20 kHz)
Damping factor: More than 2000 (main power output stage)
Dimensions incl feet: 10 cm x 43 cm x 35 cm (HxWxD), 10,6 kg shipping weight
Dimensions (US): 3.93" x 16.93" x 13,77" (HxWxD), 23.37 lbs shipping weight
Finish: Black