Hegel D50
Hegel D50 digital-to-analogue converter, featuring comprehensive connectivity and compatible with MQA 8X, DSD256 and high-resolution PCM, for demanding hi-fi systems.
Description
The Hegel D50 is a standalone digital-to-analogue converter, designed to convert a digital audio stream into an analogue signal for an amplifier or preamplified system. It is a source component, placed upstream of the system, whose role is to accurately reproduce files and digital streams sent by a computer, a network player or an external digital source.
The D50 is built around a recent DAC chip capable of processing PCM up to 32-bit/384 kHz, DSD256 via DoP and MQA 8X, allowing it to decode almost all current audio formats without limitation on the digital input side. Its output level of 2.5 V, available in both RCA and XLR, makes it easy to integrate with preamplifiers or integrated amplifiers accepting a standard line signal. The stated total harmonic distortion, below 0.0002%, and a signal-to-noise ratio above 100 dB reflect a design geared towards neutrality and low colouration of the converted signal.
The D50's connectivity is particularly extensive: a USB-B input, two optical Toslink inputs, an S/PDIF RCA input, an S/PDIF BNC input and an AES/EBU XLR input allow several digital sources to be connected simultaneously, whether a computer, a CD player or any other digital device. The outputs, in RCA and XLR, offer compatibility with both unbalanced and balanced equipment.
This DAC is aimed at a user who already owns a preamplifier or integrated amplifier and wishes to improve the conversion quality of their digital sources, or to centralise several digital inputs on a single device. Its aluminium casing, clean fascia concealing the controls and display screen make it a device designed to fit into a well-considered hi-fi setup, where conversion quality takes precedence over an abundance of features.
Technical specifications
| Compatibility | PCM up to 32-bit/384 kHz, DSD256 (DoP), MQA 8X |
| Inputs | 1x USB-B, 2x optical Toslink, 1x S/PDIF RCA, 1x S/PDIF BNC, 1x AES/EBU (XLR) |
| Outputs | 1x stereo RCA, 1x stereo XLR |
| Output level | 2.5 V (RCA and XLR) |
| Frequency response | 0 Hz – 100 kHz |
| Signal to noise ratio | >100 dB |
| Background noise | <150 dB |
| Total harmonic distortion | <0.0002% |
| Power consumption | <20 W in operation, <0.5 W in standby |
| Dimensions (H × W × D) | 99 x 430 x 305 mm |
| Weight | 6.6 kg |
What to check before buying used
As the digital circuitry has no mechanical wear, attention should focus mainly on the USB-B connector and the optical Toslink sockets, which can sometimes be weakened by repeated unplugging. Prolonged use may also dull the fascia or control display: check the display and the recognition of each input before purchase. Also test the headphone output and the internal relays, whose switching should remain crisp and free of any parasitic noise.
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