The testimony from your wife really validated the review. When someone who isn’t into audio is so emphatic about the difference you know it’s real and not just audiophiles exaggerating small nuances..lol.
Yea, no exaggerating this time. It really was a huge difference. Going to try an convince Mrs. Chibs to join me for my next review. Thanks for watching! 🍻
Great video and very thorough. I enjoy watching peoples journeys through the world of hifi. I own the H390, when testing them against other amps it was the one that grabbed me musically. I listen to my system almost everyday and I find myself struggling to stop listening, that to me is the mark of the right system for me. I’m sure with the Hegel sound you will be happy for a long long time, and that in itself is value for money!
Thank you!! I feel the same way, I’ll tell myself once this tracks over, I’m out. The next track comes and it sounds so good I have to stick around for one more. Okay, last one….. 🤣 Would love to check out that 390 one day.
I really liked the format of this video. Talking about your whole experience rather than just a quick review makes this so much more compelling. Excellent work!
Thank you Neil! I had to edit out some of the normal review stuff like specs, inputs, and unboxing because it was too damn long haha. I may put still put out a small video with that footage of there’s interest. I actually have more to say experience wise too. Such a great amp!! Cheers 🍻
@@MisterChibs I hope you continue to make HiFi videos, your style is a breathe of fresh air. I too like Hegel products I am currently using their p20 preamp.
My wife would get along so well with your wife. Same attitude towards audio (she listens to her music through her Bose headphones ... not judging here, but...). When I got my new speakers, I practically had to drag/kidnap her into my music room to get her to listen to "my new sound". Well, after an hour she was still riveted to my chain and just couldn't stop listening to music. I loled when I saw your wife pretty much act the same. Great channel btw. Keep it up!
1) The best review approach ever with wife and friend. 2) LS50's (original or Meta's) are wonderful speakers. I own them. I knew something was very wrong with you having speaker issues. 3) I really respect Vilip's input and he does not even sell KEF's. 4). Yep, some brick & mortar dealers are worth their weight in gold and some are just thieves / will say or sell anything for money. 6) Glad your happy!
Just got back from Audio Excellence where Vilip was kind enough to demo the Hegel (lower) product line for me. I agree there is no replacement for going to an actual store, demoing a product and talking to knowledgeable friendly folks. (Thx Vilip!) I agonize and over analyze about spending $20.00…. But regardless of my issue(s), I love music and see a future Hegel in my life! (BTW Roon is amazing eh?) Thx for posting!
Me. Chibs, you and your wife got me. LOL! This was exactly like my wife when she went to the audio store and listened to the Hegel H190. She used the word “amazing” as well. I look forward to watching your videos.
Lots of talk these days in the audiophile YT community about proper pairing of amp to speakers, which I find fascinating. Though an audiophile from way back, I’ve spent the majority of my audiophile brain power by applying it to a career in the Live Concert industry as a PA system and FOH engineer. At the highest level of the concert industry, proper enclosure-amplifier pairing is simply how it’s done, even to the point where some speaker companies won’t even sell you their product unless you agree to use X amplifier with them, while a few select others went the 100% self powered route. The difference can be huge, on a scale hard to fathom for home stereo folk. A great case in point is Adamson, a speaker company originating out of Toronto but one of the top 3 or 4 concert speaker products ever made. As one of my personal faves I’ve typically requested to tour with them when I can. Unlike other companies, Adamson don’t insist you use x amp but HIGHLY RECOMMEND you use it instead. Your call but worth listening to their opinion. Pair an Adamson line array with Lab Grupen amps and you are mixing a show on one of the best sound systems in the world, swap out for another brand of amp, and even if on paper it’s the same power rating etc it drops off 30% at least. Anyway, fascinating that this concept is gaining traction in audiophile circles, all the more so for me because I’ve been living this on a large scale for 20+ years. Good work on the video, you’ve almost convinced me to upgrade from my H95 to an H190.
Very interesting perspective Sean, thanks for sharing! I don't think a lot of people fully appreciate how important proper amplification can be. Had no clue myself (at first). The H190 could be a nice upgrade depending on which speakers you intend on hooking it up with. Let me know what you end up doing and what you think (if you do the upgrade). I didn't try the H95 but still believe it would be a substantial improvement over the Powennode.👍🍻
Best part of the video was the talk with the wife, it so reminded me of myself, HiFi and my wife. The passion of the husband in regard to HiFi components and music and the wife who just wants to listen to music and could not care a toss about any HiFi equipment. Yeah its definitely a hobby dominated by males....
Funny! They just got me as well. Great video. It’s identical to me and my wife however my wife will sit in the room with me and chat with the children on facebook. lol! We should start a club. Audiophile men talk about our music and listen to some tunes and the wives can talk and drink a wine in the other room.
Nice video. I watch Audio Excellence vids and your use of Vilip was perfect. Well down. A very impressive real world review. And I don’t mean to seem creepy but you need to have Mrs Chibs on your videos. She is very photogenic and engaging. Again we’ll done.
I made dinner while listening! That’s a big one for me as shit has to get done. So… from a listening perspective? Perfect! From the content perspective? Entirely accurate on all levels of components discussed. Stand out moments… The way you take people through the discovery of amplification and what it really does or does not by the varying components inside “The Box”! Toroidal transformer through the capacitance in microfarads. Lastly, the big one! Dampening factor! These are essentials in a robust amp. Great video and thanks for a very well thought out composition.
I just waiting for Hegel H120, because I have a small room and I will get KEF R3. I'm glad that you've confirmed my thoughts, if it's good match with KEF. Can't wait to hear that combo. Thank you for nice review.
I have a Hegel H300 powering a pair of Sonus Faber Venere 3.0s, a REL T5i sub and fed by a Cambridge Audio CXN streamer. And the sound is enough to leave my friends’ jaws agape! 😊
Nice to see your hifi journey. It is like mine. Now I have arrived at my sound destination. After the LS50 I have found my dream combination with the Hegel H190. Let your Hegel try the Dynaudio Heritage Special. You will probably also fall for this dream duo. Have fun on your way.
I currently have the bluesound powernode paired with Klipsch heresy IV. They have a 99db sensitivity. It sounds divine. 80 watts is more than enough for high efficiency speakers.
@@MisterChibs Good! I have my eye on the Cornwall IV's . As you are finding out in this hobby, you are only satisfied for a very short time before wanting to upgrade.
Thanks for sharing the experience. I have a Powernode and was about to buy LS50 Metas. Guess I'll buy the Focal Aria Evo X. Will you make a video when you find a new all in one amp/streamer?
You are kind of a weird guy....but by the end of this video, your growing on me. 😜 Great video! I had LS50s(who hasn't) and almost went the Hegel route. They are great little speaker....and the brightness some people complain about is their other associated equipment for sure.
As I was saving up for either a Hegel or a Macintosh to pair with the LS50s.... I saw Steve Guttenberg's video on a tiny Decware tube amp and COMPLETELY went a different direction. The idea of changing the sound of the amplifier with just a tube, really appealed to me. Obviously though, I had to get much larger and more sensitive speakers too. But I'll always have a soft spot for the ls50s. Going back to your video.... It would have been super cool if you could have filmed the first reaction of some of the people who listened to your stereo... And then spliced in some clips. People really like that. Maybe an idea for the future.... Anyway, your passion is enjoyable to watch. Keep on going.
@@mikehuntington4440 thanks Mike! Would love to do some live reactions! Way more interesting than photos with narration behind them. Only issue is finding willing subjects. Andy is a huge help but not so comfortable being filmed. I’ll ask some other friends and see what they say. Mrs Chibs actually enjoyed the interview so that’s definitely an option going forward. Oh and Steve Gutenberg is awesome! 👍🏻
My H390 has a Dac Loop function that allows you to use an external DAC with the built in streamer. I'm not sure if the H190 has the same function but it might be worth looking in to.
The Hegel and Power Node? I hope it sounds better! Two different animals, and I know you know that. It is not only the power, but the difference in Class A and Class B amplification. And of course the DAC. The DAC is key, the amplification is the icing on the cake with the right speakers. DACs, R2R, pick your flavor, I like Denafrips, but there are others. Speakers, I have never heard the KEFs, no interest in them, I just sold an entire suite of SVS Ultras, no more book shelf speakers, other than in the garage and bedroom. KLH Model 5's with two SVS SB3000 subs doing the heavy lifting. BIG ENGAGING SOUND! I'm Rocking Denafrips!
@@MisterChibs You really need to check out the 5's, I think your wife would even be onboard with a pair of those, the SB3000's are again, another "icing on the cake" component.
Very helpful and entertaining, thanks. You've convinced me to slow my roll in going the Powernode/NAD all-in-one route with my relatively insensitive speakers. (I had already started to suspect that NAD has a budget set aside for reviewers...). Still, one big question I'm left with is how much of a difference between the Powernode and H190 is simply wattage, as I think the KEFs have a reputation for being power hungry. So Powernode vs NAD C399 and/or C399 vs H190 might be quite revealing. And you're quite right -- that's wear the old brick and mortars are super helpful, even if not as convenient as another click on RUclips.
Thanks man. Let me know what you decide and especially let me know if you a/b C399 and H190. My guess would be H190 wins with its class ab amp. Haven’t demoed the Nad so not sure though. 🍻
I worked at Best Buy a few years ago, and a customer came in to pick up his LS50 Metas that he ordered online. I asked him what amplifier he was going to be using and he tells me, a Sonos Amp. I just about cried right there knowing how screwed he was 😢. I listed off several class AB amps for him to check out, but he told me he just bought the Sonos and was going to just run with that. 😢
Thank you for the comparison. But one might not forget that the hegel is 3x more expensive. If you consider the bluesound feature of the n330 compared to the rather dull looking options of the hegel, the price difference is even greater. The hegel would need pairing with a N130 which adds another 700 to the tally. So, in essence you compare the amplifier section of a N330 (400,-) with a H190 (3.000,-), which is 8x the price. A better comparison might be the ma10 v2 or the nad m33. But still an interesting comparison. I do own the H360 and have it paired with a N130 and a pair of C4 Dynaudio´s. Also I do have the N330, albeit paired with a monster of a woofer (1.000Watt) and the 705 signatures. Since the N330 does not need to drive the basement any more, it is astonishing what can be acomplished with 2x80 Watt. The law of diminishing returns definitly applies, though. Even when compared to sublime products like the hegel H360 and the C4`s.
Thanks for watching. Soon I'll be comparing the H190 to something quite a bit more expensive. It'll be interesting to see if it has the same effect or diminishing returns sets in. 🍻
Good review. I have LS50 METAs too. I think I heard you say something about your LS50 META being updated. What exactly does the update consist of, if you don't mind me asking.
@@MisterChibs At 7:30 you say that at this point my LS50 Metas had been upgraded. After a second listen, I now realize you meant they were upgraded in sound, by switching to the Hegel amp. Whoops, my bad.
Great review! Exactly the kind of video I'm always looking for. About to upgrade from the powernode. Want Mcintosh but being below my TV and being unable to turn the front panel lights off... looking at alternatives.
Thanks man! Yea, I demoed an MA352 and your reasoning was why I didn't end up taking one home. The Hegel amps aren't small but they get out of your way nicely. The display turns off too. H190 is a big step up from Powernode.🍻
Thank you, very informative review. However, I think it is not fare to compare a 1k lifestyle streaming + dac + amplifier with a 3.5K hifi separate amplifier with dac. Recently, I bought a NAD C700, which actually is a PowerNode with screen and few other enhancements, for driving KEF LS50 Meta combined with SVS SB2000Pro. I am quite sissified with the sound, especially taking into account the ease of use and versatility. In addition I think the high pass filter option offered by BlueOS is very important since it relieves the amplifier from the demanding low frequencies. It would be interesting to clarify if the big difference between PowenNode and Hegel was noticeable in high volumes or if even in moderate and low volumes the difference was still apparent. Thank you in advance
Thanks Nikolaos, You're right, the comparison is not fair, nor was it meant to be. The Powernode is a great bit of kit but didn't impress with the Metas. I'm spoiled by a really high end headphone setup and that combo in contrast was lacking. That was my experience though, and others may hear /feel differently. If you're happy with the C700, thats the most important thing! Now getting to your other question, the Bulk of my testing was done around 72 DB. Having said that, I noticed audio quality was much better at all volumes. This difference was also noticeable going through H190's Dac and not using the Pontus 2. (Pontus was better still) I do have something coming up that may be a closer match in price to your c700 but no clue how that's going to do, so stay tuned!
@@MisterChibs Dear Mr Chibs great hearing from you. Actually, this is the magic that the technology and the Internet in particular provides for sharing experiences and knowledge across the globe with similarly minded enthusiasts and not only pros. Looking forward for your next videos.
Fundamentally, they’re both integrated amps with streaming capabilities. I had high expectations for the Powernode. In use, it was a night and day difference! Thanks for watching. 👍🏻
I’m sorry you had high expectations with Node, but frankly speaking, Hegel is 4 times pricier than PowerNode, it’s in a different class.. good synergy between H190 and the KEF’S👍
Great video! I have a question.. Is Hegel’s H190 DAC better than iFI Audio ZEN ONE Signature DAC? I want to buy the H190 and I already have ifi ZEN ONE. Should I keep it or sell it?
Thanks. It's a tough call and you may want to do an AB comparison before deciding to sell your ZEN. I haven't had the Zen but do own an ifi iDSD Signature with a Burr-Brown chip. The H190's chip is made by AKM and well implemented so this may be more of a sidegrade. Having said that if you want a noticeably better DAC, I would personally look at Denafrips R2R or something from Chord. I have reviews on my channel of both. So if it were me, I would sell the Zen and put the $ towards one of those since you already have a dac in the H190. Hope this helps! 🍻
I love Hegel. I bought the 190 and thought the internal DAC was ok but a bit vague. I ended up returning it for the 390 because the price difference between the 190 and 390 would cost me the same as an external DAC and the 390 DAC is vastly upgraded from the 190. Plus the 390 supports high resolution on all digital inputs. Now I am curious how external DACs like the Pontus and Chord Qutest compare to the 390 but can’t justify another 2 grand to satisfy the curiosity. I have the LS50 metas wireless 2s so I couldn’t hookup my Hegel to them. Kind of regret not getting the passive because of that but the built in amps made it easy to move them to our dining room as a secondary system. My Hegel powers a pair of Q Acoustics Concept 500s and man. The attack and soundstage you get pairing a Hegel to floor standers is something to behold.
Thanks for sharing your thoughts! For what it’s worth I think you made the right decision going to H390. I haven’t demo’d one (Thankfully haha) but Vilip was gushing about how amazing it is. Maybe an upgrade down the road though. As far as DAC upgrades go, The Hegel uses an AKM chip based dac and they’re good. I can’t compare with a PGA dac (Qutest) yet but can tell you that R2R is much better to my ears. I’m getting into this in my next video. The beauty of your 390 and my 190 having XLR inputs is it’s no sweat to upgrade DAC once your curiosity gets the better of you (and it will haha) The most important thing is having enough power to drive your speakers and you’ve got that covered. I’m drooling over floor standing speakers now myself. So much out there, such a fun hobby!👍🏻
@@MisterChibs it really is. I got into this at the start of the pandemic. So much better to sit down at the end of a work day and listen to tunes than to put on the TV and hear about all the insanity in the world. BTW. Once you go floor standers it’s hard to go back. The scale of the performance is so much more
@@pmizz7959 similar experience here too except I started with Headphones. Once we moved and I had the space to be loud, speakers we’re a natural progression. Demoed Sonus Faber Sonetto 8 and left the room with my eyes bulging 🤣. Want to Demo KLH mode 5’s too, I hear their pretty good for the $.
@@MisterChibs I was talking to a local KEF dealer and he said KEF has some more new launches coming this year. Seemed like the R series could be getting the Meta treatment soon. That could be a floor stander to look out for. Our wives seem very similar. She has the exact same attitude towards this hobby. My system is in our master bedroom. She will be getting ready to go out and will be playing music through her phone. I’m like you know you have that right behind you right… She goes yea it’s fine though. I like my phone…. It’s like watching a movie in your iPad when you have a complete home theatre. Makes no sense to me
@@pmizz7959 hahaha totally, right?!? They have different priorities I guess. We have a big TV in our bedroom and she’ll opt to be on her little laptop watching something on RUclips. It won’t even be be maximized to be full screen so all those other videos, adds, and info taking up most of the screen’s real estate I’m like, “at least make it full screen and she’s like “No, don’t touch it” hahahaha.
Hi Mr Chibbs, I am thinking of pairing KEF LS50 Meta with a Hegel H190 Integrated amplifier in a room that measures 19.5ft long x 11.5 ft wide x 10-14 ft high and opens up into another space that is 11.5ft x 11.5ft.. Would this be a good pairing between speaker and amplifier and also for this room? Do these LS50 Meta have enough bass response or should I add one or a pair of REL T7x or T9x subwoofer? Thanks in advance.
Do you already own the LS50 Metas? I can definitely recommend the H190 for them. As far as filling your room with sound, you shouldn't have a problem. Keep in mind Metas do much better away from the back wall (6 feet in my case). Definitely get a sub, 2 is even better. I'm using 2 SVS SB2000 pro's. I can adjust volume / low pass filter settings from my listening position which helps a ton. 👍🍻
Hey, did you try the Hegel 190 with the LS50's in the near field setup? Like you did with the powernode and did it make a big difference? Great video! Im going through the same things.
Loved the video's am looking at creating my first Hi fi loudspeaker system for a new to us house we have just moved into. so far its music out of a BTR5 into my 770 pro's that i love, that hooick on "wish you were here" is clearly audible on them Would hooking a decent amp on the node 2021 get past the lack of upgrade path on the POWERNODE, i do like the versatility of the Bluesound software?
Great video! Any thoughts on how the Hegel does with badly recorded music? And by chance, have you heard the H95s? Wondering if it's worth the step up to the 120's...
Thanks. Badly recorded music will still sound that way on H190. Its DAC is on the polite side in regard to sibilance though. I have not tried out the H95, just H120 H190 and H390. It may depend on how efficient your speakers are but there will still be noticeable improvements each step up. 🍻
@@MisterChibs Planning to run the KEF LS50 Metas too actually, which is why I stumbled across your review. Glad I saw it before I got the Bluesound Powernode! I'll be running it in a small-medium sized-ish apartment, so I was hoping to get the 95's rather than the 120's because I know for a fact that I can't play it too loudly. :) Subscribed!
@@MisterChibs Yeah, I got them at a price I couldn't refuse. 😅I'm still doing research on a proper amplifier for them. I just want to give them the best chance of succeeding because like you, I'm spoiled with higher end headphone gear (HD800s (eq'd to be a bit less sibilant) + a Marantz HD-DAC1). Right now, I'm just running Dali Concept 1's with a class D SMSL A100 amp. It'll probably be enough to power the LS50's, but I'm highly doubtful that they'll sound good on it.🤔 It seems like a lot of people have gotten away with amplifiers cheaper than Hegels, but I've extended my budget to the 95s because there's so much feedback around that Hegels are really /something else/ with the KEFs. I'll definitely demo the H120's too, but for roughly $1000 more (at least here in Europe), I'm not yet sure if it'll be worth it. Still exploring whether I'll get a Bluesound node or similar because the connectivity of the Hegels are simply not that good 🤷♂
The LS50’s are great speakers but their low cost is misleading because of what it takes to drive them properly. If you go the budget rout you may end up spending more in the long run trying to get them sounding good and fixing decisions based on said budget. This is a trap I fell in to. Had I known then what I know now, I would have just bought the R3 Metas or other more efficient speakers. If you’re going to check out Bluesound node, consider Peachtree GAN1 as well. That said, you’re going to probably end up wanting a subwoofer too. Welcome down the rabbit hole. 😉
Guessing you should be okay but have not tried that combo. It’s best to demo at a dealer or better yet take a demo unit home and see how it sounds to you.
Hello M. Chibs, I found the same till I bought my Peachtree Nova300 pairing it with my KEF LS50s. Hey, BTW how did my digital usb cable recommendation work out for you after getting my suggestion? The Supra USB, or did you go down the $$$ rabbit hole? Also use your Pontus II, the Hegel dac not even close. Oh yeah, a suggestion, on camera shoots keep the dog skip the wife(no offense intended). 😉
I have a separate home theatre system so haven’t tried this out myself. According to the manual: Home Theater or Standard Analog Input All inputs can be changed into a Home Theater input. This will set the Volume at a fixed high volume level. Use the RC8 remote to change the settings. Hold computer play until the setup menu appears. Use computer prev/next to navigate to "HT" and press computer play to select this submenu. Now use computer next/prev to maneuver to the input you want to change into a fixed level input. Press computer Play to toggle between a fixed level input or normal variable input. Now don't press anything for 15sec, and the H190 will return to normal mode.
Not sure what's worng with my system. I have Kef LS50 Meta and KC62 sub. First I had a Nad C268 and used a Bluesound Node 2I as a streamer, DAC and pre. Completey dissapointing results. Exactly everything as you said when pairing them to the Powernode. Thin, solulless, no mid-bass, no soundstage. Then I trusted you and order a Hegel H190 and while it has improved just a bit, it still sounds very mediocre, thin, with no mid-bass, average detail and still no chance to get even closer in detal and fullness to my cheap Meze 99 Classics plugged directly to my mobile. Even my Harman Kardon bluetooth portable speaker sounds more balancednwith a rounder mid-bass and a bit warmer and more enjoyable. Really I cannot belive how much money I have thrown to the trash in something that I will never be able to enjoy.
LS50 meta owner w/ Powernode. I find it’s okay and loud enough for my small office but things do get a little muddy easily. Can I pull at the ‘streaming sound quality is better with the node’. Streaming is my source so I wouldn’t want to spend 4x on a H190 to be disappointed by the sound quality! Thanks.
@@MisterChibs sorry maybe I misunderstood but I thought in this video you claimed for streaming sound quality is better on the node? (Along with easier etc).
Or wait, am I getting your comment and Powernode & Node (streamer only) muddled up! My ideal state would be to go from the Powernode to H190 and atleast in the short term use Airplay / Upnp apps and maybe one day Roon!
@@deanpickering7355 I understand what you mean now. Streaming ability is better and easier on the node verses the Hegel. Yes, but sound quality is much better on the Hegel to begin with. Because I value sound quality above all else, I would trade Powernode for H190 / H120 and lose functionality. Now that I have the node and H190, I have the best of both worlds. Keep in mind If you’re using Roon on the Hegel, it should sound better than apple airplay. To sum up - BS Node + H190 > H190 > Powernode. Hope that helps!
@@deanpickering7355 you can’t stream from Powernode to H190. You’ll need to get a Bluesound node or other streamer to use in conjunction unfortunately. I go into much more detail in my previous video about Powernode if you’d like to learn more.
I just bought an H190 last week and I'm unfortunately returning it. There is a persistent buzz going to my speakers and some other inconsistent oddities. Hagel support was responsive for half a day then just stopped responding altogether. I spent a tremendous amount of time researching and troubleshooting on my own but nothing fixes it. I'm really disappointed. I really expected more based on the price and Hagel's reputation. I thought this would be the core of my system for years to come but I'll be starting over.
Oh damn, sorry to hear that. Did you rule out ground loops? I would try and replace and see if the new one has the same problem. Mine’s been amazing. Always a chance of getting a lemon but it totally sucks when it happens to you. At least you were withIn your return window!
@@MisterChibs Thank you for the reply. It seems like some sort of ground loop issue. Last I heard from Hagel a few days ago they said I should test my outlets to make sure they're wired correctly. I and they are correct. Doing additional research I found a lot of people that spent thousands of dollars rewiring their homes and adding expensive line conditions to eliminate similar problems with H390s and H590s. I tried swapping old gear in and out of the system, including an old power amp with a huge toroidal transformer, and the sound is perfectly clean as long as the H190 isn't in the system. I may have gotten a lemon but after their poor customer service I'm ready to move on. The seller (Safe & Sound in US) is giving me a full refund and paying for return shipping.
@@jayce1315 I don’t know much about ground Loops so this is just a guess. Maybe because of the Hegel’s high power output, it was taking a small ground loop issue that you had and is magnifying the problem. If you end up getting an amp with similar output and have the same problem then that’s probably going to be the case. I have an older house and my H190’s plugged directly into the wall outlet. Guess I got lucky. Shame Hegel didn’t reply to you in a timely manner. Maybe the time difference has something to do with this. I’m lucky in that I have a dealer here that knows everything to do with these beasts. Really haven’t needed any help though. Best of luck in your next integrated. Let me know what you end up with!👍🏻
I own a h390 and love it. But there was a slight internal buzz coming from the toroidal which Hegal know about and explain why. I cured mine using a DC blocker.
@@oohtob6685 Glad you were able to fix it. The buzz I experienced was going through the speakers. The dealer disagreed with Hegel and said something must be wrong with the unit and gave me a full refund. I finally got a response from Hegel when I told them that I returned it. They weren't rude but they refused to even consider a defect in their product and were a little condescending. Hegel told me I would have the same problem with any amp w/ a ground plug but I had no problem with 2 other amps w/ ground plugs. I was going to buy a different amp but I reset my AV receiver while troubleshooting the Hegel and forgot to reset the speaker impedance setting to 4 ohms which caused it to go poof so I had to spend that money on a new AV receiver instead.
Does the Node DAC override or interfere with the Hegel’s solution? I’m looking at a H190 and Node combo to achieve Tidal Connect and Chromecast to a Hegel sound.
@@QQQ80804No, just connect the Node to H190 via Coax or optical and then you use the H190’s DAC, not the Nodes. Down the road I would suggest getting a separate DAC as the H190 can be improved upon. 🍻
@@MisterChibs Boy, we’ve just reduced the Hegel integrated to only an amp. :) Wonder if a different integrated with a better DAC would be a better solution. H390 or M33 perhaps. Appreciate your comments. Great video. Your wife would be a ruthless professional reviewer and cold stoned honest.
I've been into hifi for more than 40 years, I've had loads of amplifiers, non of them have made anything like the difference you and your wife have described. Most of the differences have been quite subtle, especially at low volumes. Something not right somewhere,
Thanks for watching Ron. No shenanigans here but you're entitled to your opinion. Perhaps in your 40 years, you've never bought an amp underpowered for the speakers you had. That's either good luck, proper research, or good salesmen guiding your purchase decisions. 🍻
I like your videos, they are very entertaining. I do think there must have been something wrong with the Powernode though. Amps just don't make that sort of difference. At normal levels, say for acoustic music, power doesn't matter that much. I've had 200 watt amps and 40 watt amps and power has never been a problem. Have you still got the Powernode?
@@ronlysons6750 Thanks Ron. I was able to sell the Powernode thankfully. I followed up with the guy who bought it and he said he was very happy. If I had my klipsch speakers at the time I think the Powernode may have been a better match, but those Keff speakers scale very well with power. It's going to be interesting to test them with the H390.🍻
I haven’t demoed the Gan400 but if it’s anything like the Peachtree Gan1, the sound will be more analytical than the H190. The Hegel will still give you detail but come across a bit warmer. You can check out the Gan1 review I did on my channel. 🍻
I think I did but we didn’t switch very quickly and didn’t play the same song back to back so it’s hard to tell. The main reason I picked the 190 over the 120 was the extra power for speakers I may choose down the road. Since there wasn’t a huge difference in price I went with the 190. I would have been equally as happy with the H120 with those Keffs.
@@MisterChibs I had the ls50 Meta's with a Hegel H120 its a great combo, I have since bought the new dynaudio emit 30's that also sound excellent with the H120 but im curious if moving up to a H190 would give me a noticeable jump in performance?
@@hclandscapes Tough to tell unless you can Demo with your 30's and A/B them back to back. If you're enjoying the sound and nothing's specifically bugging you I would stay with the H120. Definitely don't buy without Demoing imo. From what I hear the jump from 190 - 390 is bigger than the jump from 120-190. I didn't demo the 390 out of fear that I would want to buy that haha.
@@MisterChibs yes i have read that also but the H390 is 5k, I dont think i could justify spending that much on an amplifier, but i have thought about it! The H120 and H190 have the same dac so both should sound similar i guess but i like the idea of having the extra power and i think in terms of spending the H190 is as far as i could probably go to. Really enjoyed your review by the way, just subscribed to your channel 🙂
@@hclandscapes Thanks man! Hey, speaking of DAC's, Putting that extra cash into an external DAC may make a more noticeable difference for you. Something to consider presuming you're using the internal H120's DAC. People with 390's and 590's upgrade their Dac's and notice big improvement. I definitely notice it in my case with the 190 as well.
Even without driving my system to concert volumes, I think my moon amp is sweet. Wouldn’t pair it with your KEF’s though. By the way, I’m also in the GTA.
Going to look into measuring and treating any sound problems I may have in the future. I think my media room is decent actually. Wall to wall padded carpet helps. Weed or edibles is a whole other video 😂
If I’m not mistaken, REL like you to use their spades to connect to an amp (high level connection). They get pinched in behind the binding posts while your speaker cables go in the front using banana plugs. I’ve done this with my Kef sub but never tried REL’s. 🍻
Actually there is a way that I was using up until recently. I was using an Asus router as a hub extender. It connected wirelessly to my main Asus router and I connected an ethernet cable from that hub directly to the H190. You can also get a wifi extender with an ethernet port and use it in the same way. Something like this amzn.to/3yKcYZK A wired connection is always going to be better but for me It actually worked perfectly. 🍻
@@arielstereo5484 off the top of my head, more power, upgraded bit perfect DAC, dual mono design. It’s really nice if the difference in price isn’t a big deal for you.
@Mr Chibs ahh, gotcha, thanks. The H390 has mono amp. Does this mean it plays each channel separately vs a regular amp both channels are driven at same time?
@@arielstereo5484 it’s dual mono so yea. It’s left and right amplifier channels are completely separated from each other, each with its own power supply. According to Hegel this provides better stereo separation, completely free of crosstalk between channels. I haven’t demoed the H390 but it’s on my short list. 🍻
@@MAVrikrrr There were some technical problems I was having with their software. Tidal’s support gave me the runaround and nothing was fixed. Then I found out about MQA not being lossless. Now there’s rumours that Tidal is making a clear shift from "being music-centric to product-centric-pushing tech initiatives instead of anything related to music, labels, distributors or artists." Qobuz on the other hand has just been hassle-free. Apple Music too.
I was not impressed with Audio Excellence. I was in Toronto for a few days and went by to hear the LRS speakers. Salesman politely told me they needed an appointment. I said I was leaving the next day but alas no help was offered. So I wandered around and stepped inside an audition room. What did I find. A Hegel amp with a CD player connected and a pair of speakers. I thought if they really wanted my business they could have at least quickly inserted the LRS in that system and let me listen. But they did not seem to care. So I called Uber and waited by the front door (it was snowing). In walked to us some guy looking to sell his equipment. They spent good time with him. Anyway Uber arrived and I left feeling let down. I wouldn’t buy anything from them. Sorry.
That's a shame. Perhaps they had someone coming in for a demo or that guy you mentioned called first to make an appointment. They're not a huge operation like some other Toronto audio stores that I've been to. I've been back a number of times but always call first to make sure I can demo what I want. One of those times was the LRS and they were not for me. Retail isn't easy but I'm glad this place exists. Hope you have better luck next time!
On a more positive note - I enjoyed your videos. It’s a unique and interesting approach. Denafrips is also a really interesting company. I was torn between a Schiit Bifrost and an Ares 2 and in the end decided to buy the Bifrost. But the Ares still intrigues me. But If I do eventually get Denafrips I will get the Pontus. That said I wish Alvin made an integrated amp equivalent of the Ares- affordable yet well made and great sounding. Maybe one day. All the best on your Hi Fi Trip. Keep up the good work.
Same experience with my lone local Hi-Fi shop. I have spent money there, but quite honestly, I shop elsewhere unless they have it "in stock". Not impressed with them in the least... They are OK when you come in looking to spend money... Kicking tires, trying to make up your mind? You may as well be an unshowered bum with no teeth or shoes. I will stick to online sales and internet direct sales.
I might be wrong but those guys seem like they might be a bit weird about who they decide to be helpful to on any given day. That can be a problem in a business where there’s not a good management structure, where the staff get to think they run the place.
The testimony from your wife really validated the review. When someone who isn’t into audio is so emphatic about the difference you know it’s real and not just audiophiles exaggerating small nuances..lol.
Yea, no exaggerating this time. It really was a huge difference. Going to try an convince Mrs. Chibs to join me for my next review. Thanks for watching! 🍻
Great video and very thorough. I enjoy watching peoples journeys through the world of hifi. I own the H390, when testing them against other amps it was the one that grabbed me musically. I listen to my system almost everyday and I find myself struggling to stop listening, that to me is the mark of the right system for me. I’m sure with the Hegel sound you will be happy for a long long time, and that in itself is value for money!
Thank you!! I feel the same way, I’ll tell myself once this tracks over, I’m out. The next track comes and it sounds so good I have to stick around for one more. Okay, last one….. 🤣 Would love to check out that 390 one day.
I really liked the format of this video. Talking about your whole experience rather than just a quick review makes this so much more compelling. Excellent work!
Thank you Neil! I had to edit out some of the normal review stuff like specs, inputs, and unboxing because it was too damn long haha. I may put still put out a small video with that footage of there’s interest. I actually have more to say experience wise too. Such a great amp!! Cheers 🍻
@@MisterChibs I hope you continue to make HiFi videos, your style is a breathe of fresh air. I too like Hegel products I am currently using their p20 preamp.
@@dajikbatarang1 Thanks again Neil!
My wife would get along so well with your wife. Same attitude towards audio (she listens to her music through her Bose headphones ... not judging here, but...). When I got my new speakers, I practically had to drag/kidnap her into my music room to get her to listen to "my new sound". Well, after an hour she was still riveted to my chain and just couldn't stop listening to music. I loled when I saw your wife pretty much act the same.
Great channel btw. Keep it up!
Thanks man! It’s still super tough to get her to listen 🤣
1) The best review approach ever with wife and friend. 2) LS50's (original or Meta's) are wonderful speakers. I own them. I knew something was very wrong with you having speaker issues. 3) I really respect Vilip's input and he does not even sell KEF's. 4). Yep, some brick & mortar dealers are worth their weight in gold and some are just thieves / will say or sell anything for money. 6) Glad your happy!
Thanks Michael!!!! 🍻
Just got back from Audio Excellence where Vilip was kind enough to demo the Hegel (lower) product line for me. I agree there is no replacement for going to an actual store, demoing a product and talking to knowledgeable friendly folks. (Thx Vilip!) I agonize and over analyze about spending $20.00…. But regardless of my issue(s), I love music and see a future Hegel in my life! (BTW Roon is amazing eh?) Thx for posting!
Thanks for sharing your experience! Coincidentally I just spoke with Vilip today. Good luck with the future Hegel purchase!! 🍻
Me. Chibs, you and your wife got me. LOL! This was exactly like my wife when she went to the audio store and listened to the Hegel H190. She used the word “amazing” as well. I look forward to watching your videos.
Thanks Kenneth! 🍻
Lots of talk these days in the audiophile YT community about proper pairing of amp to speakers, which I find fascinating. Though an audiophile from way back, I’ve spent the majority of my audiophile brain power by applying it to a career in the Live Concert industry as a PA system and FOH engineer. At the highest level of the concert industry, proper enclosure-amplifier pairing is simply how it’s done, even to the point where some speaker companies won’t even sell you their product unless you agree to use X amplifier with them, while a few select others went the 100% self powered route.
The difference can be huge, on a scale hard to fathom for home stereo folk. A great case in point is Adamson, a speaker company originating out of Toronto but one of the top 3 or 4 concert speaker products ever made. As one of my personal faves I’ve typically requested to tour with them when I can. Unlike other companies, Adamson don’t insist you use x amp but HIGHLY RECOMMEND you use it instead. Your call but worth listening to their opinion. Pair an Adamson line array with Lab Grupen amps and you are mixing a show on one of the best sound systems in the world, swap out for another brand of amp, and even if on paper it’s the same power rating etc it drops off 30% at least.
Anyway, fascinating that this concept is gaining traction in audiophile circles, all the more so for me because I’ve been living this on a large scale for 20+ years. Good work on the video, you’ve almost convinced me to upgrade from my H95 to an H190.
Very interesting perspective Sean, thanks for sharing! I don't think a lot of people fully appreciate how important proper amplification can be. Had no clue myself (at first). The H190 could be a nice upgrade depending on which speakers you intend on hooking it up with. Let me know what you end up doing and what you think (if you do the upgrade). I didn't try the H95 but still believe it would be a substantial improvement over the Powennode.👍🍻
Best part of the video was the talk with the wife, it so reminded me of myself, HiFi and my wife. The passion of the husband in regard to HiFi components and music and the wife who just wants to listen to music and could not care a toss about any HiFi equipment. Yeah its definitely a hobby dominated by males....
Haha!! Agreed, it's a total sausage fest! 🤣🍻
Great video, saved me from nearly falling into same meta+powernode trap
Thanks man! It definitely ruffled some feathers in the process but I’m glad it helped. 👍🏻🍻
'Let's listen to one song', 'I've got my phone' lmao. My girl friend have the same conversation all the time. I just subscribed.
Thanks man 👍🏻🍻
Funny! They just got me as well. Great video. It’s identical to me and my wife however my wife will sit in the room with me and chat with the children on facebook. lol! We should start a club. Audiophile men talk about our music and listen to some tunes and the wives can talk and drink a wine in the other room.
Nice video. I watch Audio Excellence vids and your use of Vilip was perfect. Well down. A very impressive real world review. And I don’t mean to seem creepy but you need to have Mrs Chibs on your videos. She is very photogenic and engaging. Again we’ll done.
Thanks Scott! She liked being interviewed so this could totally become a thing :)
I made dinner while listening! That’s a big one for me as shit has to get done.
So… from a listening perspective? Perfect!
From the content perspective?
Entirely accurate on all levels of components discussed. Stand out moments…
The way you take people through the discovery of amplification and what it really does or does not by the varying components inside “The Box”! Toroidal transformer through the capacitance in microfarads.
Lastly, the big one! Dampening factor!
These are essentials in a robust amp.
Great video and thanks for a very well thought out composition.
Glad you liked it! This was a big video for me in many respects. Working hard on my H390 video so stay tuned and thanks for watching! 🍻
I just waiting for Hegel H120, because I have a small room and I will get KEF R3. I'm glad that you've confirmed my thoughts, if it's good match with KEF. Can't wait to hear that combo. Thank you for nice review.
Thanks Milan. Keff usually demos their speakers with Hegel amps at trade shows. Enjoy your H120! 🍻
I have both although the R3 Meta. Put Rega integrated on you list. less features no dac but the sound quality is superior
@@jasonme3557 i have the new Elex and think it sounds better than the Hegel
Good job man, you have successfully turned your lady to an audiophile! Kudos! LOL
Thanks Cabron, I have to do it all over again for my Chord Mojo II review 🤣
I have a Hegel H300 powering a pair of Sonus Faber Venere 3.0s, a REL T5i sub and fed by a Cambridge Audio CXN streamer. And the sound is enough to leave my friends’ jaws agape! 😊
That’s awesome! Big fan of Hegel house sound myself. I have a new bit of Hegel kit that I’m currently demoing. Review incoming (eventually). 🍻
Nice to see your hifi journey. It is like mine. Now I have arrived at my sound destination. After the LS50 I have found my dream combination with the Hegel H190. Let your Hegel try the Dynaudio Heritage Special. You will probably also fall for this dream duo. Have fun on your way.
Those Dynaudio look nice! Thanks for shairing & watching Dida. 👍🏻🍻
Hegel is a great product. I own their preamp and I have heard their integrated amps and they are all good in their own right!
Absolutely! Thanks for chiming in! 👍
I currently have the bluesound powernode paired with Klipsch heresy IV. They have a 99db sensitivity. It sounds divine. 80 watts is more than enough for high efficiency speakers.
Thanks for sharing your experience. I'm falling in love with a certain set Klipsch speakers. Soooo good and yes, not as demanding as the Metas.
@@MisterChibs Good! I have my eye on the Cornwall IV's . As you are finding out in this hobby, you are only satisfied for a very short time before wanting to upgrade.
@@reganferguson4823 CORNWALL!!!!!!! We have the same eye Regan. I went and demoed them and I'm going to be doing a Covrnwall IV video. 👍🏻
But cleaner warmer power and amplifier would still open those up much more!
Thanks for sharing the experience. I have a Powernode and was about to buy LS50 Metas. Guess I'll buy the Focal Aria Evo X. Will you make a video when you find a new all in one amp/streamer?
Thank you, I have a review out for the H390 and if you’re interested the Peachtree GaN1 which drives the LS50 Metas very well. 🍻
Really good amp, have owned it for 2 years great match with b&w 702 s2, i will try to get Hegel h390 soon
Thanks for sharing! Eventually I’ll try out h390 too. 👍🏻🍻
You are kind of a weird guy....but by the end of this video, your growing on me. 😜
Great video!
I had LS50s(who hasn't) and almost went the Hegel route. They are great little speaker....and the brightness some people complain about is their other associated equipment for sure.
Haha thanks Mike! 🍻 What amp did you end up with? This vid was a lot of fun to make, glad you enjoyed it!
As I was saving up for either a Hegel or a Macintosh to pair with the LS50s.... I saw Steve Guttenberg's video on a tiny Decware tube amp and COMPLETELY went a different direction. The idea of changing the sound of the amplifier with just a tube, really appealed to me. Obviously though, I had to get much larger and more sensitive speakers too. But I'll always have a soft spot for the ls50s.
Going back to your video.... It would have been super cool if you could have filmed the first reaction of some of the people who listened to your stereo... And then spliced in some clips. People really like that. Maybe an idea for the future....
Anyway, your passion is enjoyable to watch. Keep on going.
@@mikehuntington4440 thanks Mike! Would love to do some live reactions! Way more interesting than photos with narration behind them. Only issue is finding willing subjects. Andy is a huge help but not so comfortable being filmed. I’ll ask some other friends and see what they say. Mrs Chibs actually enjoyed the interview so that’s definitely an option going forward. Oh and Steve Gutenberg is awesome! 👍🏻
My H390 has a Dac Loop function that allows you to use an external DAC with the built in streamer. I'm not sure if the H190 has the same function but it might be worth looking in to.
Currently have a Bluesound Node, streaming to a Denafrips Venus II, connected to my H190 through XLR. 👍🏻👍🏻 made a vid about it if your interested. 🍻
The Hegel and Power Node? I hope it sounds better! Two different animals, and I know you know that. It is not only the power, but the difference in Class A and Class B amplification. And of course the DAC. The DAC is key, the amplification is the icing on the cake with the right speakers. DACs, R2R, pick your flavor, I like Denafrips, but there are others. Speakers, I have never heard the KEFs, no interest in them, I just sold an entire suite of SVS Ultras, no more book shelf speakers, other than in the garage and bedroom. KLH Model 5's with two SVS SB3000 subs doing the heavy lifting. BIG ENGAGING SOUND! I'm Rocking Denafrips!
Nice! I was seriously looking at the model 5's Would still like to demo them at some point. Big fan of SVS subs too 👍🍻
@@MisterChibs You really need to check out the 5's, I think your wife would even be onboard with a pair of those, the SB3000's are again, another "icing on the cake" component.
Neil Young is alive! Celebrity news with my audio reviews, love it.
Thanks Dave! Yea, that was a funny exchange. Definitely one of my favourites. 🍻
Very helpful and entertaining, thanks. You've convinced me to slow my roll in going the Powernode/NAD all-in-one route with my relatively insensitive speakers. (I had already started to suspect that NAD has a budget set aside for reviewers...). Still, one big question I'm left with is how much of a difference between the Powernode and H190 is simply wattage, as I think the KEFs have a reputation for being power hungry. So Powernode vs NAD C399 and/or C399 vs H190 might be quite revealing. And you're quite right -- that's wear the old brick and mortars are super helpful, even if not as convenient as another click on RUclips.
Thanks man. Let me know what you decide and especially let me know if you a/b C399 and H190. My guess would be H190 wins with its class ab amp. Haven’t demoed the Nad so not sure though. 🍻
I worked at Best Buy a few years ago, and a customer came in to pick up his LS50 Metas that he ordered online. I asked him what amplifier he was going to be using and he tells me, a Sonos Amp. I just about cried right there knowing how screwed he was 😢. I listed off several class AB amps for him to check out, but he told me he just bought the Sonos and was going to just run with that. 😢
Ignorance is bliss. If I didn't know better, I could have saved a lot of $ 😆
Welcome to the audiophile world ❤
Thanks for watching 🍻
Thank you for the comparison. But one might not forget that the hegel is 3x more expensive. If you consider the bluesound feature of the n330 compared to the rather dull looking options of the hegel, the price difference is even greater. The hegel would need pairing with a N130 which adds another 700 to the tally. So, in essence you compare the amplifier section of a N330 (400,-) with a H190 (3.000,-), which is 8x the price.
A better comparison might be the ma10 v2 or the nad m33.
But still an interesting comparison. I do own the H360 and have it paired with a N130 and a pair of C4 Dynaudio´s. Also I do have the N330, albeit paired with a monster of a woofer (1.000Watt) and the 705 signatures. Since the N330 does not need to drive the basement any more, it is astonishing what can be acomplished with 2x80 Watt. The law of diminishing returns definitly applies, though. Even when compared to sublime products like the hegel H360 and the C4`s.
Thanks for watching. Soon I'll be comparing the H190 to something quite a bit more expensive. It'll be interesting to see if it has the same effect or diminishing returns sets in. 🍻
Good review. I have LS50 METAs too. I think I heard you say something about your LS50 META being updated. What exactly does the update consist of, if you don't mind me asking.
Thanks, not sure about any LS50 update. May have been taken out of context?
@@MisterChibs At 7:30 you say that at this point my LS50 Metas had been upgraded. After a second listen, I now realize you meant they were upgraded in sound, by switching to the Hegel amp. Whoops, my bad.
Great review! Exactly the kind of video I'm always looking for. About to upgrade from the powernode. Want Mcintosh but being below my TV and being unable to turn the front panel lights off... looking at alternatives.
Thanks man! Yea, I demoed an MA352 and your reasoning was why I didn't end up taking one home. The Hegel amps aren't small but they get out of your way nicely. The display turns off too. H190 is a big step up from Powernode.🍻
Great review, love it,
and you guys...
Regards Antony Warrington England..
Thanks Antony! More of us is on the way 👍🏻🍻
Thank you, very informative review.
However, I think it is not fare to compare a 1k lifestyle streaming + dac + amplifier with a 3.5K hifi separate amplifier with dac.
Recently, I bought a NAD C700, which actually is a PowerNode with screen and few other enhancements, for driving KEF LS50 Meta combined with SVS SB2000Pro. I am quite sissified with the sound, especially taking into account the ease of use and versatility. In addition I think the high pass filter option offered by BlueOS is very important since it relieves the amplifier from the demanding low frequencies.
It would be interesting to clarify if the big difference between PowenNode and Hegel was noticeable in high volumes or if even in moderate and low volumes the difference was still apparent.
Thank you in advance
Thanks Nikolaos,
You're right, the comparison is not fair, nor was it meant to be. The Powernode is a great bit of kit but didn't impress with the Metas. I'm spoiled by a really high end headphone setup and that combo in contrast was lacking. That was my experience though, and others may hear /feel differently.
If you're happy with the C700, thats the most important thing!
Now getting to your other question, the Bulk of my testing was done around 72 DB. Having said that, I noticed audio quality was much better at all volumes. This difference was also noticeable going through H190's Dac and not using the Pontus 2. (Pontus was better still)
I do have something coming up that may be a closer match in price to your c700 but no clue how that's going to do, so stay tuned!
@@MisterChibs Dear Mr Chibs great hearing from you.
Actually, this is the magic that the technology and the Internet in particular provides for sharing experiences and knowledge across the globe with similarly minded enthusiasts and not only pros.
Looking forward for your next videos.
@@nikolaosnikolaou2348 thanks Nikolaos! 👍🏻
Hi Mr Chibs,i don't think you can't really expect PowerNode to performe close to H190,they're very different in every aspect..
Fundamentally, they’re both integrated amps with streaming capabilities. I had high expectations for the Powernode. In use, it was a night and day difference! Thanks for watching. 👍🏻
I’m sorry you had high expectations with Node, but frankly speaking, Hegel is 4 times pricier than PowerNode, it’s in a different class.. good synergy between H190 and the KEF’S👍
@@catalincojocaru4170 not disagreeing with you. It’s an awesome integrated amp!
Neil Young did pass away years ago. Nobody has told him yet.
Lol!!
Great video! I have a question.. Is Hegel’s H190 DAC better than iFI Audio ZEN ONE Signature DAC? I want to buy the H190 and I already have ifi ZEN ONE. Should I keep it or sell it?
Thanks. It's a tough call and you may want to do an AB comparison before deciding to sell your ZEN. I haven't had the Zen but do own an ifi iDSD Signature with a Burr-Brown chip. The H190's chip is made by AKM and well implemented so this may be more of a sidegrade. Having said that if you want a noticeably better DAC, I would personally look at Denafrips R2R or something from Chord. I have reviews on my channel of both. So if it were me, I would sell the Zen and put the $ towards one of those since you already have a dac in the H190. Hope this helps! 🍻
@@MisterChibs Thank you so much 🙏
I love Hegel. I bought the 190 and thought the internal DAC was ok but a bit vague. I ended up returning it for the 390 because the price difference between the 190 and 390 would cost me the same as an external DAC and the 390 DAC is vastly upgraded from the 190. Plus the 390 supports high resolution on all digital inputs. Now I am curious how external DACs like the Pontus and Chord Qutest compare to the 390 but can’t justify another 2 grand to satisfy the curiosity. I have the LS50 metas wireless 2s so I couldn’t hookup my Hegel to them. Kind of regret not getting the passive because of that but the built in amps made it easy to move them to our dining room as a secondary system. My Hegel powers a pair of Q Acoustics Concept 500s and man. The attack and soundstage you get pairing a Hegel to floor standers is something to behold.
Thanks for sharing your thoughts! For what it’s worth I think you made the right decision going to H390. I haven’t demo’d one (Thankfully haha) but Vilip was gushing about how amazing it is. Maybe an upgrade down the road though. As far as DAC upgrades go, The Hegel uses an AKM chip based dac and they’re good. I can’t compare with a PGA dac (Qutest) yet but can tell you that R2R is much better to my ears. I’m getting into this in my next video. The beauty of your 390 and my 190 having XLR inputs is it’s no sweat to upgrade DAC once your curiosity gets the better of you (and it will haha) The most important thing is having enough power to drive your speakers and you’ve got that covered. I’m drooling over floor standing speakers now myself. So much out there, such a fun hobby!👍🏻
@@MisterChibs it really is. I got into this at the start of the pandemic. So much better to sit down at the end of a work day and listen to tunes than to put on the TV and hear about all the insanity in the world.
BTW. Once you go floor standers it’s hard to go back. The scale of the performance is so much more
@@pmizz7959 similar experience here too except I started with Headphones. Once we moved and I had the space to be loud, speakers we’re a natural progression. Demoed Sonus Faber Sonetto 8 and left the room with my eyes bulging 🤣. Want to Demo KLH mode 5’s too, I hear their pretty good for the $.
@@MisterChibs I was talking to a local KEF dealer and he said KEF has some more new launches coming this year. Seemed like the R series could be getting the Meta treatment soon. That could be a floor stander to look out for.
Our wives seem very similar. She has the exact same attitude towards this hobby. My system is in our master bedroom. She will be getting ready to go out and will be playing music through her phone. I’m like you know you have that right behind you right… She goes yea it’s fine though. I like my phone…. It’s like watching a movie in your iPad when you have a complete home theatre. Makes no sense to me
@@pmizz7959 hahaha totally, right?!? They have different priorities I guess. We have a big TV in our bedroom and she’ll opt to be on her little laptop watching something on RUclips. It won’t even be be maximized to be full screen so all those other videos, adds, and info taking up most of the screen’s real estate I’m like, “at least make it full screen and she’s like “No, don’t touch it” hahahaha.
Hi Mr Chibbs, I am thinking of pairing KEF LS50 Meta with a Hegel H190 Integrated amplifier in a room that measures 19.5ft long x 11.5 ft wide x 10-14 ft high and opens up into another space that is 11.5ft x 11.5ft.. Would this be a good pairing between speaker and amplifier and also for this room? Do these LS50 Meta have enough bass response or should I add one or a pair of REL T7x or T9x subwoofer? Thanks in advance.
Do you already own the LS50 Metas? I can definitely recommend the H190 for them. As far as filling your room with sound, you shouldn't have a problem. Keep in mind Metas do much better away from the back wall (6 feet in my case).
Definitely get a sub, 2 is even better. I'm using 2 SVS SB2000 pro's. I can adjust volume / low pass filter settings from my listening position which helps a ton. 👍🍻
@@MisterChibs Thanks for reaching out. Much appreciated.
Hey, did you try the Hegel 190 with the LS50's in the near field setup? Like you did with the powernode and did it make a big difference? Great video! Im going through the same things.
Yes, Mrs Chibs and I A/B’d both systems in my small office first. Difference was noticeable.
Loved the video's am looking at creating my first Hi fi loudspeaker system for a new to us house we have just moved into. so far its music out of a BTR5 into my 770 pro's that i love, that hooick on "wish you were here" is clearly audible on them
Would hooking a decent amp on the node 2021 get past the lack of upgrade path on the POWERNODE, i do like the versatility of the Bluesound software?
Thank you Craig. A good amp and the Bluesound Node is a great start!
Great video! Any thoughts on how the Hegel does with badly recorded music? And by chance, have you heard the H95s? Wondering if it's worth the step up to the 120's...
Thanks. Badly recorded music will still sound that way on H190. Its DAC is on the polite side in regard to sibilance though. I have not tried out the H95, just H120 H190 and H390. It may depend on how efficient your speakers are but there will still be noticeable improvements each step up. 🍻
@@MisterChibs Planning to run the KEF LS50 Metas too actually, which is why I stumbled across your review. Glad I saw it before I got the Bluesound Powernode!
I'll be running it in a small-medium sized-ish apartment, so I was hoping to get the 95's rather than the 120's because I know for a fact that I can't play it too loudly. :)
Subscribed!
Did you get the LS50 metas yet? They love power. I would personally start with the H120 on those. It will run them better regardless of volume level.
@@MisterChibs Yeah, I got them at a price I couldn't refuse. 😅I'm still doing research on a proper amplifier for them.
I just want to give them the best chance of succeeding because like you, I'm spoiled with higher end headphone gear (HD800s (eq'd to be a bit less sibilant) + a Marantz HD-DAC1). Right now, I'm just running Dali Concept 1's with a class D SMSL A100 amp. It'll probably be enough to power the LS50's, but I'm highly doubtful that they'll sound good on it.🤔
It seems like a lot of people have gotten away with amplifiers cheaper than Hegels, but I've extended my budget to the 95s because there's so much feedback around that Hegels are really /something else/ with the KEFs. I'll definitely demo the H120's too, but for roughly $1000 more (at least here in Europe), I'm not yet sure if it'll be worth it. Still exploring whether I'll get a Bluesound node or similar because the connectivity of the Hegels are simply not that good 🤷♂
The LS50’s are great speakers but their low cost is misleading because of what it takes to drive them properly. If you go the budget rout you may end up spending more in the long run trying to get them sounding good and fixing decisions based on said budget. This is a trap I fell in to. Had I known then what I know now, I would have just bought the R3 Metas or other more efficient speakers. If you’re going to check out Bluesound node, consider Peachtree GAN1 as well. That said, you’re going to probably end up wanting a subwoofer too. Welcome down the rabbit hole. 😉
Would this drive 4 Ohm speakers with a sensitivity of 86db like the ELAC Vela BS 403?
Guessing you should be okay but have not tried that combo. It’s best to demo at a dealer or better yet take a demo unit home and see how it sounds to you.
Hello M. Chibs, I found the same till I bought my Peachtree Nova300 pairing it with my KEF LS50s. Hey, BTW how did my digital usb cable recommendation work out for you after getting my suggestion? The Supra USB, or did you go down the $$$ rabbit hole? Also use your Pontus II, the Hegel dac not even close. Oh yeah, a suggestion, on camera shoots keep the dog skip the wife(no offense intended). 😉
Yes! I got Supra USB cable and liked it so much ordered their COAX and optical too. Great cables!
Try tubes with efficient speakers and be prepared for a pleasant shock:) got my first one last year
Nice, if I try tubes it would probably be with my headphone rig first. That Mackintosh HP amp is tempting.
I just purchased the Hegel H190 to push my B&W 705s ,hoping I’m going to enjoy the sounds.?
Nice! Let me know how you like it with 705s. 👍🏻🍻
Hegel is running a sale for $3200 this month I couldn’t turn it down. $1100 off the amplifier.
@@jlappin6277 nice deal!!
Will do my brother. It should be here on Friday the 705 are sitting in a box waiting lol.
The Hegel is not Home theater friendly I take it? If I were to use as my left and right from my AVR??
I have a separate home theatre system so haven’t tried this out myself. According to the manual:
Home Theater or Standard Analog Input
All inputs can be changed into a Home Theater input. This will set the Volume at a fixed high volume level. Use the RC8 remote to change the settings. Hold computer play until the setup menu appears. Use computer prev/next to navigate to "HT" and press computer play to select this submenu. Now use computer next/prev to maneuver to the input you want to change into a fixed level input. Press computer Play to toggle between a fixed level input or normal variable input. Now don't press anything for 15sec, and the H190 will return to normal mode.
@@MisterChibs sweet thank you for looking into that for me, there’s one locally for 50% off I’m considering 🤔
@@leonsam12lucky!!
Not sure what's worng with my system. I have Kef LS50 Meta and KC62 sub.
First I had a Nad C268 and used a Bluesound Node 2I as a streamer, DAC and pre. Completey dissapointing results. Exactly everything as you said when pairing them to the Powernode. Thin, solulless, no mid-bass, no soundstage.
Then I trusted you and order a Hegel H190 and while it has improved just a bit, it still sounds very mediocre, thin, with no mid-bass, average detail and still no chance to get even closer in detal and fullness to my cheap Meze 99 Classics plugged directly to my mobile.
Even my Harman Kardon bluetooth portable speaker sounds more balancednwith a rounder mid-bass and a bit warmer and more enjoyable. Really I cannot belive how much money I have thrown to the trash in something that I will never be able to enjoy.
Should be a large difference from the Powernode. How far are your speakers from the wall? How big is the room? Have you tried moving the sub around?
LS50 meta owner w/ Powernode. I find it’s okay and loud enough for my small office but things do get a little muddy easily. Can I pull at the ‘streaming sound quality is better with the node’. Streaming is my source so I wouldn’t want to spend 4x on a H190 to be disappointed by the sound quality! Thanks.
Hi Dean, not 100% sure what you’re asking. Do you mean to ask if streaming from bs node to Hegel H190 is worth the extra $?
@@MisterChibs sorry maybe I misunderstood but I thought in this video you claimed for streaming sound quality is better on the node? (Along with easier etc).
Or wait, am I getting your comment and Powernode & Node (streamer only) muddled up! My ideal state would be to go from the Powernode to H190 and atleast in the short term use Airplay / Upnp apps and maybe one day Roon!
@@deanpickering7355 I understand what you mean now. Streaming ability is better and easier on the node verses the Hegel. Yes, but sound quality is much better on the Hegel to begin with. Because I value sound quality above all else, I would trade Powernode for H190 / H120 and lose functionality. Now that I have the node and H190, I have the best of both worlds. Keep in mind If you’re using Roon on the Hegel, it should sound better than apple airplay. To sum up - BS Node + H190 > H190 > Powernode. Hope that helps!
@@deanpickering7355 you can’t stream from Powernode to H190. You’ll need to get a Bluesound node or other streamer to use in conjunction unfortunately. I go into much more detail in my previous video about Powernode if you’d like to learn more.
I just bought an H190 last week and I'm unfortunately returning it. There is a persistent buzz going to my speakers and some other inconsistent oddities. Hagel support was responsive for half a day then just stopped responding altogether. I spent a tremendous amount of time researching and troubleshooting on my own but nothing fixes it. I'm really disappointed. I really expected more based on the price and Hagel's reputation. I thought this would be the core of my system for years to come but I'll be starting over.
Oh damn, sorry to hear that. Did you rule out ground loops? I would try and replace and see if the new one has the same problem. Mine’s been amazing. Always a chance of getting a lemon but it totally sucks when it happens to you. At least you were withIn your return window!
@@MisterChibs Thank you for the reply. It seems like some sort of ground loop issue. Last I heard from Hagel a few days ago they said I should test my outlets to make sure they're wired correctly. I and they are correct. Doing additional research I found a lot of people that spent thousands of dollars rewiring their homes and adding expensive line conditions to eliminate similar problems with H390s and H590s. I tried swapping old gear in and out of the system, including an old power amp with a huge toroidal transformer, and the sound is perfectly clean as long as the H190 isn't in the system. I may have gotten a lemon but after their poor customer service I'm ready to move on. The seller (Safe & Sound in US) is giving me a full refund and paying for return shipping.
@@jayce1315 I don’t know much about ground Loops so this is just a guess. Maybe because of the Hegel’s high power output, it was taking a small ground loop issue that you had and is magnifying the problem. If you end up getting an amp with similar output and have the same problem then that’s probably going to be the case. I have an older house and my H190’s plugged directly into the wall outlet. Guess I got lucky. Shame Hegel didn’t reply to you in a timely manner. Maybe the time difference has something to do with this. I’m lucky in that I have a dealer here that knows everything to do with these beasts. Really haven’t needed any help though. Best of luck in your next integrated. Let me know what you end up with!👍🏻
I own a h390 and love it. But there was a slight internal buzz coming from the toroidal which Hegal know about and explain why. I cured mine using a DC blocker.
@@oohtob6685 Glad you were able to fix it. The buzz I experienced was going through the speakers. The dealer disagreed with Hegel and said something must be wrong with the unit and gave me a full refund. I finally got a response from Hegel when I told them that I returned it. They weren't rude but they refused to even consider a defect in their product and were a little condescending. Hegel told me I would have the same problem with any amp w/ a ground plug but I had no problem with 2 other amps w/ ground plugs. I was going to buy a different amp but I reset my AV receiver while troubleshooting the Hegel and forgot to reset the speaker impedance setting to 4 ohms which caused it to go poof so I had to spend that money on a new AV receiver instead.
Did you ever try hooking up your Node to the Hegel to add those streaming capabilities? Curious if that would be an effective solution.
Yes, the node is a better, more feature rich streamer than what the H190 has.
Does the Node DAC override or interfere with the Hegel’s solution? I’m looking at a H190 and Node combo to achieve Tidal Connect and Chromecast to a Hegel sound.
@@QQQ80804No, just connect the Node to H190 via Coax or optical and then you use the H190’s DAC, not the Nodes. Down the road I would suggest getting a separate DAC as the H190 can be improved upon. 🍻
@@MisterChibs Boy, we’ve just reduced the Hegel integrated to only an amp. :) Wonder if a different integrated with a better DAC would be a better solution. H390 or M33 perhaps. Appreciate your comments. Great video. Your wife would be a ruthless professional reviewer and cold stoned honest.
@@QQQ80804 Hegel's strength is amp / preamp. Their DAC's are okay, I think of them as a bonus. My next vid is on the H390 so stay tuned.
I've been into hifi for more than 40 years, I've had loads of amplifiers, non of them have made anything like the difference you and your wife have described. Most of the differences have been quite subtle, especially at low volumes. Something not right somewhere,
Thanks for watching Ron. No shenanigans here but you're entitled to your opinion. Perhaps in your 40 years, you've never bought an amp underpowered for the speakers you had. That's either good luck, proper research, or good salesmen guiding your purchase decisions. 🍻
I like your videos, they are very entertaining. I do think there must have been something wrong with the Powernode though. Amps just don't make that sort of difference. At normal levels, say for acoustic music, power doesn't matter that much. I've had 200 watt amps and 40 watt amps and power has never been a problem. Have you still got the Powernode?
@@ronlysons6750 Thanks Ron. I was able to sell the Powernode thankfully. I followed up with the guy who bought it and he said he was very happy. If I had my klipsch speakers at the time I think the Powernode may have been a better match, but those Keff speakers scale very well with power. It's going to be interesting to test them with the H390.🍻
How does this sound comparing to the peachtree gan400? Thanks.
I haven’t demoed the Gan400 but if it’s anything like the Peachtree Gan1, the sound will be more analytical than the H190. The Hegel will still give you detail but come across a bit warmer. You can check out the Gan1 review I did on my channel. 🍻
Did you hear much difference between the H120 and the H190?
I think I did but we didn’t switch very quickly and didn’t play the same song back to back so it’s hard to tell. The main reason I picked the 190 over the 120 was the extra power for speakers I may choose down the road. Since there wasn’t a huge difference in price I went with the 190. I would have been equally as happy with the H120 with those Keffs.
@@MisterChibs I had the ls50 Meta's with a Hegel H120 its a great combo,
I have since bought the new dynaudio emit 30's that also sound excellent with the H120 but im curious if moving up to a H190 would give me a noticeable jump in performance?
@@hclandscapes Tough to tell unless you can Demo with your 30's and A/B them back to back. If you're enjoying the sound and nothing's specifically bugging you I would stay with the H120. Definitely don't buy without Demoing imo. From what I hear the jump from 190 - 390 is bigger than the jump from 120-190. I didn't demo the 390 out of fear that I would want to buy that haha.
@@MisterChibs yes i have read that also but the H390 is 5k,
I dont think i could justify spending that much on an amplifier, but i have thought about it!
The H120 and H190 have the same dac so both should sound similar i guess but i like the idea of having the extra power and i think in terms of spending the H190 is as far as i could probably go to.
Really enjoyed your review by the way, just subscribed to your channel 🙂
@@hclandscapes Thanks man! Hey, speaking of DAC's, Putting that extra cash into an external DAC may make a more noticeable difference for you. Something to consider presuming you're using the internal H120's DAC. People with 390's and 590's upgrade their Dac's and notice big improvement. I definitely notice it in my case with the 190 as well.
So lots of Canadian dealers told you the powernode wasn’t a good match but you didn’t want to proceed on their advice?
Nah, you got your Mr. Chibs timeline wrong 🤔
Even without driving my system to concert volumes, I think my moon amp is sweet. Wouldn’t pair it with your KEF’s though. By the way, I’m also in the GTA.
@@Greenapul nice, thanks for sharing Paul 🍻
Most of it is the room. Add good weed with a good room and your done
Going to look into measuring and treating any sound problems I may have in the future. I think my media room is decent actually. Wall to wall padded carpet helps. Weed or edibles is a whole other video 😂
How do you properly connect a REL to this amp?
If I’m not mistaken, REL like you to use their spades to connect to an amp (high level connection). They get pinched in behind the binding posts while your speaker cables go in the front using banana plugs. I’ve done this with my Kef sub but never tried REL’s. 🍻
Do you know if there is a way to use it wirelessly? I have no router in the room I plan on using.
Actually there is a way that I was using up until recently. I was using an Asus router as a hub extender. It connected wirelessly to my main Asus router and I connected an ethernet cable from that hub directly to the H190. You can also get a wifi extender with an ethernet port and use it in the same way. Something like this
amzn.to/3yKcYZK
A wired connection is always going to be better but for me It actually worked perfectly. 🍻
@Mr Chibs
Thank you. Great info.
Also for Magnepan LRS is an H190 good or is the H390 overkill?
@@arielstereo5484 for Maggie’s, more power is always better!
@Mr Chibs
The 390 uses mono blocks correct? What's the difference?
@@arielstereo5484 off the top of my head, more power, upgraded bit perfect DAC, dual mono design. It’s really nice if the difference in price isn’t a big deal for you.
I hear a lot of talk over the H models but what's the difference from the H and H30a?
The H30A is just a Power amp, all be it a very good one. The H190 is an integrated streaming one box solution (Pre-Amp, Amp, DAC, and Streamer).
@Mr Chibs ahh, gotcha, thanks. The H390 has mono amp. Does this mean it plays each channel separately vs a regular amp both channels are driven at same time?
@@arielstereo5484 it’s dual mono so yea. It’s left and right amplifier channels are completely separated from each other, each with its own power supply. According to Hegel this provides better stereo separation, completely free of crosstalk between channels. I haven’t demoed the H390 but it’s on my short list. 🍻
@Mr Chibs
The h190 lacks the dual mono correct?
@@arielstereo5484 that’s right
Which extender hub do you use?
For wifi? It’s an Asus 5300.
Primare i15mk2 try this one instead of powernode or Hegel.
Thanks for the recommendation.
What's wrong with Tidal?
Tried Tidal and it wasn’t for me. I prefer Qobuz.
@@MisterChibs I'm trying to understand why, is it about sound quality, or is it just about features/ui?
@@MAVrikrrr There were some technical problems I was having with their software. Tidal’s support gave me the runaround and nothing was fixed. Then I found out about MQA not being lossless. Now there’s rumours that Tidal is making a clear shift from "being music-centric to product-centric-pushing tech initiatives instead of anything related to music, labels, distributors or artists." Qobuz on the other hand has just been hassle-free. Apple Music too.
@@MisterChibsThanks for the detailed answer!
@@MAVrikrrrNo worries, hope it helps! 🍻
How well does it sound with Magnepan lrs?
The H190 drives LRS no problem. I demoed that combo and it sounded great. 🍻
@@MisterChibs
Would it be better than Parasound hca 1500a amp that has more power and current?
@@arielstereo5484 I haven’t tried that amp. It’s best to take a demo H190 home if you can.
@Mr Chibs
When auditioning amps with vinyl, is it better to do so with older recordings to hear the difference?
@@arielstereo5484 Just audition with music you’re familiar with. 🍻
I was not impressed with Audio Excellence. I was in Toronto for a few days and went by to hear the LRS speakers. Salesman politely told me they needed an appointment. I said I was leaving the next day but alas no help was offered. So I wandered around and stepped inside an audition room. What did I find. A Hegel amp with a CD player connected and a pair of speakers. I thought if they really wanted my business they could have at least quickly inserted the LRS in that system and let me listen. But they did not seem to care. So I called Uber and waited by the front door (it was snowing). In walked to us some guy looking to sell his equipment. They spent good time with him. Anyway Uber arrived and I left feeling let down. I wouldn’t buy anything from them. Sorry.
That's a shame. Perhaps they had someone coming in for a demo or that guy you mentioned called first to make an appointment. They're not a huge operation like some other Toronto audio stores that I've been to. I've been back a number of times but always call first to make sure I can demo what I want. One of those times was the LRS and they were not for me. Retail isn't easy but I'm glad this place exists. Hope you have better luck next time!
On a more positive note - I enjoyed your videos. It’s a unique and interesting approach. Denafrips is also a really interesting company. I was torn between a Schiit Bifrost and an Ares 2 and in the end decided to buy the Bifrost. But the Ares still intrigues me. But If I do eventually get Denafrips I will get the Pontus. That said I wish Alvin made an integrated amp equivalent of the Ares- affordable yet well made and great sounding. Maybe one day. All the best on your Hi Fi Trip. Keep up the good work.
Same experience with my lone local Hi-Fi shop. I have spent money there, but quite honestly, I shop elsewhere unless they have it "in stock". Not impressed with them in the least... They are OK when you come in looking to spend money... Kicking tires, trying to make up your mind? You may as well be an unshowered bum with no teeth or shoes. I will stick to online sales and internet direct sales.
@@michaelwright1602 That's really unfortunate. Brick and mortar shops need to drop that attitude now more than ever.
I might be wrong but those guys seem like they might be a bit weird about who they decide to be helpful to on any given day. That can be a problem in a business where there’s not a good management structure, where the staff get to think they run the place.
Big price difference
Indeed, but hold that thought for my video getting released later today 😉
DAC in the new Rega is far superior.
Thanks for watching!
Cute wife... every minute you spend with hifi instead of her is a total waste 😉
Best wife!
most woman are not into hifi, my girlfriend would rather go shopping for shoes.
I wonder why that is. Ask her for me. Let's get to the bottom of this!!🍻
Sorry but I don’t like photos of people in masks
This was the law at the time and couldn't be helped. Glad that's behind us now.