|
Hegel HD25 DACThe Norwegian manufacturer refers HD25 to High End class, having done everything possible to attract the attention of demanding music lovers. The model harmoniously combines both time proved and innovative technical solutions. Although the device is made in the same case as the previous Hegel DACs, it has very significant circuitry and functional differences. The main one is the possibility to receive a signal up to 24 bits/192 kHz not only via coaxial input, but also via USB. For this purpose, a separate interface board with a modern asynchronous AK4115VQ receiver from AKM Semiconductors was developed in HD25. AK4399EQ chip was selected as the signal converter - a stereo 32-bit DAC with the built-in digital filter and a balanced analog output for each channel. After it, the signal is filtered from HF distortions, amplified by the linear cascades of its own production and goes to the XLR connectors. RCA outputs are auxiliary here; the signal is summarized by the amplifiers. The dynamic range is 123 dB. The digital filter can work in two modes on the choice of the listener - usual and with a minimum time delay. Hegel HD25 also has a digital volume control with 100 steps, the position of which is displayed by large symbols on the indicator. The abbreviation of the selected input is also displayed there for a short time. It's worth to mention the curious ergonomic function: to switch to another source, you should just dab with finger at the front panel. It is isolated from the body and, apparently, serves as a capacitive sensor. Using the card type remote control, you can select the desired input, volume level and digital filter mode, as well as modes for playing audio files from a computer or media server. When you turn off the DAC, it memorizes the settings. A laptop with autonomous power is a very interesting digital source, especially with such a delicate converter as Hegel HD25. And although you never confuse the sound with the analog, it's very musical. The DAC does not seem to be analytical, it perceives music not as an aggregate of separate parts, but presents it as a single whole, with a smooth and measured flow. At the same time, transparency is such that everything in the general picture can be discerned to the smallest detail. The feeling of wholeness is caused by an even, natural tonal balance, when no one part of the working range is extruded or ignored. Regardless of the musical genre, you will hear the lower octave as well as all the richness of the spectrum in the middle. The rhythmic structure of compositions is accurately transmitted, although some, the most complex, fragments are subjectively perceived as slower, more relaxed. But when working with CD-transport via coaxial line, everything turned out to be quite different. Drive was noticeably increased, although the sound, in general, became somewhat rougher. The nuance did not change for worse, but some details were emphasized, and others, on the contrary, were ignored. The kick in the lower register gained strength and a more distinct attack, but slightly simplified in structure. Switching filters from "normal" to "fast" subjectively increased the resolution of the picture. The sound did not become sharper or more contrast - "velvet" appeared in it, a halo of overtones arose in the plates. Having such an ambiguous character Hegel HD25 gives complete freedom in choosing the source - depending on the genre preferences, the nature of sound and other components, and features of the room. ![]() |