Hegel Viking
High-end CD player from Hegel, dedicated to the Redbook 16-bit/44.1 kHz format without oversampling, for playback faithful to the original disc.
Description
The Viking is a native CD player designed by Hegel specifically for the Redbook 16-bit / 44.1 kHz format. It does not seek to convert or oversample the signal: the disc is read as it is, allowing the onboard digital-to-analogue converter to operate under the conditions for which it was optimised.
The Viking's DAC delivers distortion of 0.0015 % at an output level of 2.5 V RMS, with a frequency response from 0 Hz to 22 kHz. Playback relies on a quartz clock and a bit-perfect 16-bit / 44.1 kHz mechanism, ensuring signal reproduction faithful to the original recording without any parasitic digital processing. The metal chassis and front-panel OLED display complete a design conceived for mechanical stability and legibility of playback information.
In terms of connectivity, the Viking offers a balanced XLR output, an unbalanced RCA output and a 75-ohm BNC digital output, making it easy to integrate into an existing hi-fi system, whether it favours balanced or conventional connections. An automatic standby function and the solid aluminium RC8 remote control, compatible with the entire Hegel range, complete the unit.
This player is aimed at music lovers who still have a CD collection and wish to enjoy playback as close as possible to the original medium, within a high-end hi-fi system where the source plays a central role.
Technical specifications
| Frequency response | 0 Hz à 22 kHz |
| Distortion | 0,0015 % |
| Output level | 2,5 V RMS |
| Dimensions (W × H × D) | 430 x 99 x 305 mm |
| Weight | 7,3 kg |
| Connections | 1x balanced XLR output, 1x unbalanced RCA output, 1x BNC digital output |
What to check before buying used
The transport mechanism and optical block are the points to check first on a CD player of this age: verify that the tray opens and closes smoothly and that playback starts quickly, without repeated errors or skipping on discs. Testing with several CDs, including slightly worn ones, helps assess the laser's tracking quality. The front-panel OLED display may also show signs of ageing (reduced brightness, marked pixels), which is worth checking before purchase.
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