Streaming amplifiers continue to make their way into home audio by combining an integrated amplifier with a built-in DAC (Digital Audio Converter) and digital music streaming capabilities that are accessible via network (Ethernet or Wi-Fi) connectivity.
The latest entry into this product category is the Hegel H400 “Streamliner”.
Priced at $6,995 USD, the Hegel H400 replaces the H390.
The H400 is made to drive any speaker, connect any source, and stream anyway, without compromising audio quality. Hegel’s streaming amplifiers provide an all-in-one solution that doesn’t break the bank but still provides high-end audio performance and ease of use.
What’s New
According to Hegel, here is what is new on the H400.
- New DAC (model not specified)
- Control app that, in addition to volume and input control also provides radio and podcast access. Tip: The new control app also works with Hegel Reference H600.
- A new streaming platform for better app support.
- A new audio board that improves the sound from all inputs
- New top cover with a tighter, smoother look including circular, more effective heat vents.
- Rotary controls allow menu navigation without using the remote control.
- New top cover with a tighter smoother look, including circular, more effective, heat vents.
- Solid aluminum front panel and knobs. Milled out from one single aluminum block, then bead blasted and anodized
Feature Spotlight
Streamlined Visual Design Designed with simplicity and intuitive operation in mind, the H400 features a sleek, minimalist front with two multifunctional knobs for source selection and volume control. The knobs can also be pressed to mute, pause, or navigate the device menu. The display panel provides status information that is clear and easy to read from a distance, To maintain a clean and uncluttered appearance, the power button is located underneath the amplifier.
Amplification: The H400 incorporates a Class AB amplifier that delivers up to 250-watts (x2) of power into 8 ohms and is also stable down to 2-ohm loads. With a damping factor of 4000, the H400 supports precise and dynamic sound through connected speakers.
The dual mono amplifier construction and symmetrical layout ensure superior sound quality. The absence of an equalizer preserves signal integrity, while SoundEngine 2 technology provides instant distortion correction during amplification. This results in better sound while maximizing power efficiency.
Streamlined Connectivity: The H400 offers extensive analog and digital input options. You can also connect with any speaker, even those who are very hard to drive. Automatic signal detection recognizes connected digital audio sources and switches to the correct input, eliminating the need for manual selection.
All inputs can be set at a fixed high volume, enabling the use of home theatre preamps and multi-room devices. A TV remote function is also provided that lets you use your TV remote to control the amplifier, making home entertainment setups more intuitive and user-friendly.
Shared Features with Reference Integrated Amplifier: The H400 incorporates many of the advanced features found in Hegel’s H600 reference integrated amplifier such as Dual Mono design, robust streaming platform, and a high-quality bit-perfect DAC based on the one in the H600.
These shared features mean that the H400 delivers similar high standards of sound quality and versatility, making it a remarkable choice for discerning listeners.
Streaming and Control App: The H400 is optimized for simplicity, supporting popular streaming platforms such as AirPlay, Spotify Connect, Roon Ready, Tidal Connect, Google Cast™, and UPnP. Users can control the amplifier through these services directly.
Additionally, the Hegel Control App provides volume and input control, and access to internet radio, podcasts, and media server playback, enhancing the overall user experience. Whether you are streaming your favorite playlist or exploring new podcasts, the H400 makes it easy and enjoyable.
Multi-Room Audio: The H400 supports multi-room audio via Roon, AirPlay, and Google Cast, enabling synchronized music playback in different areas of your home. Imagine having the same high-quality audio in every room, seamlessly integrated with your smart home system.
In-House Development: The H400 has been developed in-house. This ensures consistent quality control and cohesive design. This approach eliminates unnecessary steps and complications, allowing engineers to focus on innovation and performance.
This in-house development strategy also allows for faster implementation of new features and improvements.
Environmentally Friendly: Built from high-quality materials and components, the H400 is designed for durability and reliability, ensuring a long life, and minimizing the need for frequent maintenance.
The SoundEngine 2 technology makes the H400 energy efficient, consuming minimal power while delivering top-tier performance. This technology and the amplifier’s auto standby feature reduce energy waste and environmental impact without compromising sound quality.
Comparison
| H400 Streamliner | H390 | H600 Reference | |
| Price (USD) | $6,995 | $6,500 | $12,500 |
| Component Type | Streaming Amplifier | Streaming Amplifier | Streaming Amplifier |
| Power Output | 2 x 250W in 8 ohms, Dual Mono | 2 x 250 W into 8 ohms, Dual Mono | 2 x 303W in 8 ohms, Dual Mono |
| Minimum Impedance | 2 ohms | 2 ohms | 2 ohms |
| Analog inputs | 1 x Balanced (XLR) 2 x Unbalanced (RCA) | 1 x balanced (XLR) 2 x unbalanced (RCA) | 2 x Balanced (XLR) 2 x Unbalanced (RCA) |
| Analog Outputs | 1 x Unbalanced fixed(RCA) 1 x Unbalanced variable(RCA) | 1 x unbalanced fixed (RCA) 1 x unbalanced variable (RCA) | 1 x Unbalanced fixed (RCA) 1 x Unbalanced variable (RCA) |
| Digital inputs | 1 x Coaxial (BNC) S/PDIF – 24/192, DSD64(DoP), MQA 8x 1 x Coaxial (RCA) S/PDIF – 24/192, DSD64(DoP), MQA 8x 3 x Optical S/PDIF – 24/96, MQA 8x 1 x USB – 32/384, DSD256(DoP), MQA 8x 1 x Network – 24/192, DSD64, MQA 8x | 1 x coaxial (BNC) 1 x coaxial (RCA) 3 x optical 1 x USB, 1 x Network MQA-supported inputs: USB, BNC, Optical, and Coaxial | 1 x Coaxial (BNC) S/PDIF – 24/192, DSD64 (DoP), MQA 8x 1 x Coaxial (RCA) S/PDIF – 24/192, DSD64 (DoP), MQA 8x, 3 x Optical S/PDIF – 24/96, MQA 8x 1 x USB -32/384. DSD256 (DoP), MQA 8x 1 x Network – 24/192, DSD64, MQA 8x |
| Digital Outputs | 1 x Coaxial (BNC) S/PDIF – 24/192 | 1 x coaxial (BNC) | 1 x Coaxial (BNC) S/PDIF – 24/192 |
| Streaming Services | Spotify Connect Roon Ready AirPlay Tidal Connect Google Cast Airable Internet Radio Podcast UPnP Streaming | Spotify Connect Roon Ready Apple AirPlay UPnP Streaming | Spotify Connect Roon Ready AirPlay Tidal Connect Google Cast (pending) UPnP Streaming |
| Streaming Formats | MP3, WAV, FLAC, ALAC, AIFF, DSF, DFF, AAC, PCM, MQA, Ogg | MP3, WAV, FLAC, ALAC, AIFF, DSF, DFF, AAC, PCM, MQA, Ogg | MP3, WAV, FLAC, ALAC, AIFF, DSF, DFF, AAC, PCM, MQA, Ogg |
| Frequency response | 5Hz – 180kHz | 5 Hz – 180 kHz | 5Hz – 100kHz |
| Signal-to-noise ratio | More than 100 dB | More than 100 dB | More than 100 dB |
| Crosstalk | Less than -100 dB | Less than -100 dB | Less than -100 dB |
| Distortion | Less than 0.005% @ 50W 8 Ohms 1kHz | Less than 0.005% @ 50W/8 Ohms/1 kHz | Less than 0.005% @ 50W 8 Ohms 1kHz |
| Intermodulation | Less than 0.01% (19kHz + 20kHz) | Less than 0.01% (19 kHz + 20 kHz) | Less than 0.01% (19kHz + 20kHz) |
| Damping Factor | More than 4000 (main power output stage) | More than 4000 (main power output stage) | More than 4000 (main power output stage) |
| Dimensions (HxWxD) | 15 x 43 x 44 cm 5.9 x 16.9 x 17.3” | 14.5 x 43 x 44 cm 5.71 x 16.93 x 17.32″ | 17.1 x 43 x 44.5cm 6.74 x 16.93 x 17.52″ |
| Weight | 20 kg 44.1 lbs | 20 kg 44.1 lbs | 22 kg 48.51 lbs |
Initial Impressions
In this age of streaming, a streaming amplifier is a great addition (or switchout) for a typical integrated amplifier as in many cases, it offers both built-in streaming and physical connectivity. However, not many offer the extensive power output capability of the Hegel H400.
Based on the information provided by Hegel, the H400 is a highly engineered unit with lots to offer, but there are a couple of things to take into account.
One thing is that for all the connectivity it does offer, there is no direct phono input or HDMI-ARC/eARC connectivity. This means that unless you have a turntable with a built-in phono preamp, you will have to connect an external phono preamp between the turntable and the H400.
In addition, if you want to use the H400 with your TV, you will have to opt for the digital optical connection option, rather than the more versatile HDMI-ARC/eARC option.
In addition, there is the issue of price. The H400 appears to be an excellent offering in the streaming amplifier category, but if you are budget-conscious or just looking for a more modest option, the $369 WiiM AMP Pro disserves a serious look.
Price & Availability
The Hegel H400 “Streamline” Streaming Amplifier is priced at $6,995 (US) and is expected to start shipping September 2024 via authorized distributors and dealers.
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