I in-store demoed the Simaudio Moon Neo 340i and then the Hegel H80 back to back. Speakers were the same-Golden Ear 7's. Source was the same CD player. I had not heard the speakers before and was very impressed with the imaging and bass output for the size. The ribbon tweeter was commanding and only sounded harsh when we turned up to high volume. I was rooting for the Hegel, but the Moon was superior. Really made the speakers sing and sound holographic. Both seem like fine products, but my final impression and opinion: my money would go for the Moon.
The Hegel H80 seemed to have a limited usable range on the volume control- or in other terms a lack of upward adjustment in the lower range of control. Had to considerably increase the volume setting on the Hegel to match the Sim sound output. Possibly this is what you are experiencing as well as you report a lack of headroom? Sim gave the impression of more gas in the tank. Possibly the Hegel 200, 300 would be a better match. My 2 cents on adding the Moon to your audition list. I had not heard any of the 3 options you mention.
The Hegel H80 seemed to have a limited usable range on the volume control- or in other terms a lack of upward adjustment in the lower range of control. Had to considerably increase the volume setting on the Hegel to match the Sim sound output. Possibly this is what you are experiencing as well as you report a lack of headroom? Sim gave the impression of more gas in the tank. Possibly the Hegel 200, 300 would be a better match. My 2 cents on adding the Moon to your audition list. I had not heard any of the 3 options you mention.