Hegel P20

The Hegel P20 is a stereo preamplifier designed to sit at the heart of a high-end hi-fi system. It draws on some of the technical choices developed for a higher-end model from the brand, in a version intended to make this level of quality more accessible without simplifying the listening experience.

The unit incorporates silicon germanium transistors, an unusual technology in this type of circuit, as well as high-frequency components diverted from their original use and adapted for audio amplification. This approach aims to limit noise and distortion at the preamplifier stage, a particularly sensitive stage as it handles very low amplitude signals, before any power amplification.

In terms of connectivity, the P20 offers a total of five regular inputs, available in balanced and unbalanced form, complemented by a dedicated home cinema input allowing it to be integrated into an audio-video system. On the output side, it has two balanced and unbalanced outputs, as well as a fixed line-level output.

The unit is supplied with a system remote control machined from a solid block of aluminium, whitened and finished with an anodised micro-bead treatment, matching the same surface finish as the preamplifier itself.

This preamplifier is aimed at enthusiasts wishing to build or upgrade a high-end separates system, with a source and one or more associated power amplifiers, while retaining the option of integrating it into a home cinema setup thanks to its dedicated input.