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Streaming with the Hegel H390

I recently acquired an H390; pairing it with Wilson Sabrinas. I stream directly with the H390. It works seamlessly with all the working parts in one unit. Frankly, I can't imagine getting more for what I spent. 

While the digital setup in the H390 is top notch, I have noticed that many of the reviews of the H390 pairs it with a separate streamer/DAC. So my question is, at what level of upgrade would it be worth the squeeze to just let the H390 be an amp and invest in a separate streamer/DAC?

Thank you for your input.

Gary

gpixels

Showing 2 responses by verdantaudio

verdantaudio's avatar
verdantaudio
1,463 posts
 

The DAC in the H390 is good.  I had a 390 briefly and have a 590 I use frequently.  I have had issues with Airplay and it constantly dropping.  I assume you aren't using Airplay.  How are you getting a signal to it currently?

There are much better external DACs that will deliver better staging and will be more detailed.  They are not inexpensive though.  I would put the on-board DAC in the same league as the Chord Qutest or Questyle CMA 12.  Good DACs but you can do better in terms of staging and/or detail. 

A big part is budget and then what do you think might be missing with what you are hearing now?

verdantaudio's avatar
verdantaudio
1,463 posts
 

@jjss49 That would be great.  I know the 190 was Roon ready earlier in the year but couldn't find an update on 390 and 590.  I hope you are right. I am experimenting with two DACs right now (Jadis JS1 MKV and the Playback MPS-6) and am curious how the Hegel will handle these elite DACs vs. the other amps I have around.  Will probably get my 590 out tomorrow for testing.   

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