Hegel H 590

[Flashman]

In fact, it struck me as sounding rather Devialet like!  OK - this was in a converted hotel room at a show, so I cannot comment in detail, but when I read these comparative reviews of Devialet versus Hegel and positive stuff about the H590, I can now see why, to my ears it sounded like a really good product.  It is now very clear to me why people are making the comparison to Devialet, they are both up there as excellent integrated amps for the money.

I have also been favorably impressed with Hegel and cross-shopped the brand before buying my first Devialet (180, which became a 200 through a firmware update).  There is lots of innovation in the H590, including the company writing its own proprietary operating system, special attention to Ethernet implementation, upgraded USB port, and, probably most important, a new DAC design.  For those interested in MQA, Hegel has developed a technology that permits separate signal paths for MQA and non-MQA music (clever, I must admit, even if you don't like MQA).  As for a comparison with Devialet, Hegel's packaging is certainly pedestrian.  Plus, one reviewer observed that the H590 approaches the Devialet’s performance envelope but never quite matches it.  Some cold comfort there!  I say cold comfort only because I am disappointed in Devialet's lack of attention to Expert series development. 

We all know that our firmware is more than a year old and there were promised developments that have not happened.  Plus, competitors are not standing still.  Witness the upcoming NAD Masters M33 that will feature the new Purifi amplification module and Dirac LIVE room correction.

Whilst I still like my Devialet and its sound, I really hope the company pays some needed attention to the Expert line before we are outdated.