Hegel H30 - Preamp help!

**Jack** · September 27, 2015, 09:00 PM

I think Mike and Mark both tried that combo and didn't care for it. I have always preferred a tube preamp ahead of a SS amp, but that is just me. When I bring out the tube amps in cooler weather many times I will switch the preamp to the W4S STP-SE, which is neutral and fully balanced. The Classe SS preamps though are warmer and seem to be a good fit. Are you looking for fully balanced like the OP or does it not matter?

**junglern** · September 27, 2015, 09:03 PM

Originally Posted by joeinid

If you love the P20, enjoy it for a while and don't make a quick change. Only you can really decide what you like.

The P20 put no coloration in the music at all. It feels as I mentioned the music get trough flawlessly.
The H30 it is an amazing amplifier.
My first day and can't say enough good things!
What finish is your H30?
Regards

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**junglern** · September 27, 2015, 09:09 PM

Originally Posted by joeinid

If you love the P20, enjoy it for a while and don't make a quick change. Only you can really decide what you like.

Joe, I would like to see if I get to know anyone in the NYC area with a,different pre-amp I can try with the H30.
Maybe a dealer.
I can't buy anymore without trying first.
Thank you for your,advice.

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**joeinid** · September 27, 2015, 09:28 PM

Originally Posted by junglern

The P20 put no coloration in the music at all. It feels as I mentioned the music get through flawlessly.
The H30 it is an amazing amplifier.
My first day and can't say enough good things!
What finish is your H30?
Regards

Sent from my HTC One M9 using Tapatalk

I unfortunately don't have my H30 anymore, but it was silver. And, YES!, it is an amazing amplifier. My friend Bruce uses it with a McIntosh C500T and I absolutely love that combo.

Do you prefer a neutral sound or a warmer sound?

**MDP** · September 28, 2015, 10:53 AM

i recently tried a very good VAC preamp with my H30, it was pretty damn good. But the Classe is still a better match IMHO. And I've decided to stop trying to find something better, I'm totally satisfied!

I totally understand that the Classe has no snob appeal, all it does is make beautiful music when combined with the H30.

**junglern** · September 28, 2015, 11:01 AM

Originally Posted by MDP

i recently tried a very good VAC preamp with my H30, it was pretty damn good. But the Classe is still a better match IMHO. And I've decided to stop trying to find something better, I'm totally satisfied!

I totally understand that the Classe has no snob appeal, all it does is make beautiful music when combined with the H30.

Mark, I like your point of stop trying Pres's. Yesterday was my first,day with the H30/P20.
I am very happy. If I try another pre-amp might be the classe based on your experience. But I want just enjoy the music now.
This amp pit my setup at a,different reference level I only knew from audio shows.

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**MarinJim** · September 28, 2015, 01:24 PM

I know the US distributor of Hegel swears by the H30 & Concert Fidelity CF-80 combo. And I have to agree with him, so I bought a Concert Fidelity CF-080LSX. It is the best preamp I have heard in my system and at Precision A/V in Moorpark, Ca. Last year I bought a mint used H30, but the seller did not come thru, so I got another amp, which for the time being I am very happy with. If possible, please try out a Concert Fidelity pre. You will be very pleasantly surprised.

**Mike** · September 28, 2015, 02:05 PM

Originally Posted by MarinJim

I know the US distributor of Hegel swears by the H30 & Concert Fidelity CF-80 combo. And I have to agree with him, so I bought a Concert Fidelity CF-080LSX. It is the best preamp I have heard in my system and at Precision A/V in Moorpark, Ca. Last year I bought a mint used H30, but the seller did not come thru, so I got another amp, which for the time being I am very happy with. If possible, please try out a Concert Fidelity pre. You will be very pleasantly surprised.

Looks good!

**Justin** · September 29, 2015, 09:53 AM

Originally Posted by joeinid

Oh my yes! McIntosh preamps are great with the H30. I'd get a tube C2300, C2500, or C500T. Amazing synergy.

A C500T would be my first choice for the H30 based on experience.

Sounds like I need to try this match.

The dealer who I demo'd a few preamps with thought I would not like the McIntosh sound based on my reaction to Luxman and others. But I am now convinced I need to find a way to try McIntosh with H30. I haven't heard a bad thing yet about the match.

Could someone who has heard this combo describe the qualities McIntosh imparts with the Hegel?

Much more open to 2 boxes than to a unit that runs very hot, or has tons of tubes with potential maintenance issues.

I will admit that as a relatively new audiophile, on some level I am still discovering the sound that I want. I think I am searching for some of that tube magic - and ease of listening - but without blurry images and mushy bass. I want a sound that takes me to the live venue - and has some of the presence of the Ref5SE - but with a complete non-fatiguing ease. The stability and power of the H30, with a pre that brings out a tone... the word "musical" seems overused, but I want the end product to be as musical as possible, not worried about bass slam, or perfect transparency. At the same time, want a sound that is totally alive and gets me off my ass. But without hard edges.

I have to say, based on how much I liked the little Rogue RP-5, I am very much looking forward to seeing how the Hera II matches.

I won't let this project continue forever, because I must say my system is severely missing out on it's potential right now with the P20 in it. Want my new pre in the system by year end at the latest!

**Justin** · September 29, 2015, 09:57 AM

Hi there - from many listening sessions that I have had with these at my dealer, I think the P30 is a big step up from the P20. Just my .02. But I've owned P20 for a few years and I have heard the P30 many, many times with the H30. I would say that if you like the P20 sound, the P30 is a very clear step up.

Originally Posted by junglern

Jack. I am using the Hegel P20 that no-one seems to care for and it bested my Luxman 590 AX integrated.
It seems to let the music get trough effortless.
Wondering how much better the P30 could be.?
I want to go with a pre-amp I see myself happy for a,few years.

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**MDP** · September 29, 2015, 10:15 AM

Originally Posted by junglern

Mark, I like your point of stop trying Pres's. Yesterday was my first,day with the H30/P20.
I am very happy. If I try another pre-amp might be the classe based on your experience. But I want just enjoy the music now.
This amp pit my setup at a,different reference level I only knew from audio shows.

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I'm glad you're happy with what you have!

**Jack** · September 29, 2015, 10:34 AM

Justin

Not sure your going to find to much similarity between a 12AU7 based preamp and one based on the 6H30 tube like the ARC used and is also used in the Hera.

**junglern** · September 29, 2015, 04:41 PM

Originally Posted by joeinid

The Cary will run HOT and has a LOT of tubes. It's something you might need to experience for yourself. My Conrad Johnson GAT only has 2 little tubes and sounds glorious with the H30. I know the Cary will require more care and maintenance. A less expensive Conrad Johnson tube preamp or even passive might be an easier pairing.

Joe. How much do you think that the P30 worth in the used market to have an idea.
Thanks

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**joeinid** · September 29, 2015, 05:16 PM

Originally Posted by junglern

Joe. How much do you think that the P30 worth in the used market to have an idea.
Thanks

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I think retail is only $7500? I am not sure. Maybe 4-5K used.

**junglern** · September 29, 2015, 06:08 PM

Originally Posted by joeinid

I think retail is only $7500? I am not sure. Maybe 4-5K used.

But 4-5 used maybe I could do better than P30. The P20 it is enjoyable. Very neutral.

Regards

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**joeinid** · September 29, 2015, 06:16 PM

Originally Posted by junglern

But 4-5 used maybe I could do better than P30. The P20 it is enjoyable. Very neutral.

Regards

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MY personal taste leans toward the warmer side of neutral. Everyone seems to like something different.

**junglern** · October 8, 2015, 11:25 AM

Any experience with plinius Koru phono preamp?

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**Dpod4** · October 8, 2015, 05:18 PM

Originally Posted by junglern

Any experience with plinius Koru phono preamp?

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I demoed it. My Herron vtph-2 beat it (soundstage, harmonic accuracy, lows, highs, etc).

**junglern** · October 8, 2015, 05:24 PM

Originally Posted by Dpod4

I demoed it. My Herron vtph-2 beat it (soundstage, harmonic accuracy, lows, highs, etc).

The herron is a good match with H30?
Thanks

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**MarinJim** · October 8, 2015, 06:48 PM

In all honesty, this thread is most self indulgent. We all post what we like best as Joe has so keenly posted.

**junglern** · October 9, 2015, 09:26 AM

Anyone familiar with http://www.musicdirect.com/p-7109-gr...no-preamp.aspx
I purchased one used. I am impressed.
Regards

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**junglern** · October 10, 2015, 07:42 PM

Originally Posted by joeinid

I think retail is only $7500? I am not sure. Maybe 4-5K used.

Anyone had experienced with Mark levinson 326 S and the H30?
Thanks

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**junglern** · October 11, 2015, 01:13 AM

Originally Posted by MDP

i recently tried a very good VAC preamp with my H30, it was pretty damn good. But the Classe is still a better match IMHO. And I've decided to stop trying to find something better, I'm totally satisfied!

I totally understand that the Classe has no snob appeal, all it does is make beautiful music when combined with the H30.

I just saw the CP 800 used for $3,700 do you think is a,good price?
Did you try the P30 before the classe?
Regards

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**junglern** · October 11, 2015, 01:16 AM

Originally Posted by MDP

i recently tried a very good VAC preamp with my H30, it was pretty damn good. But the Classe is still a better match IMHO. And I've decided to stop trying to find something better, I'm totally satisfied!

I totally understand that the Classe has no snob appeal, all it does is make beautiful music when combined with the H30.

Mark I am deciding between classe CP 800. Hegel P30 or Mark levinson 326 S.
The only able to audition the P30.
Your advice highly appreciated.
Regards

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**MDP** · October 11, 2015, 05:58 AM

In my system I preferred the CP800 over the P30. The only Mark Levinson preamp that I tried with the H30 was the No.52, which is a very expensive pre, it paired beautifully with the H30.

**junglern** · October 11, 2015, 07:59 AM

Originally Posted by MDP

In my system I preferred the CP800 over the P30. The only Mark Levinson preamp that I tried with the H30 was the No.52, which is a very expensive pre, it paired beautifully with the H30.

I am just a little reluctant to buy CP800 for the features I don't need in that piece of gear. But I am always impressed about the # of preamps you had been able to audition and you always talk highly about the classe. There is one in audio gone for $3,700. I think I will buy it.
The levinson 326S been asked $5K. But I don't know anyone that tried that specific model with the H30.
The P30 certainly it is a big improvement over the P20 I think much more than the 10% I heard on some forums.
I do appreciate your help on my decision making process.
Kind regards and thank you.

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**MDP** · October 11, 2015, 08:20 AM

I hope it works out well for you, but I do get a little nervous when someone buys because of my opinion. I would offer less and see what happens, that way if you don't care for the sound you can re-sell it at no loss to you.

But I will be surprised if you don't like the combination.

**junglern** · October 11, 2015, 08:26 AM

Originally Posted by MDP

I hope it works out well for you, but I do get a little nervous when someone buys because of my opinion. I would offer less and see what happens, that way if you don't care for the sound you can re-sell it at no loss to you.

But I will be surprised if you don't like the combination.

I will do.
You mentioned you compared against the P30 as,well right ?
I only been able to try P20 and P30. With the P30 been a significant difference to the point I had never go back to my P20 but my 10 days auditioning period is expiring lol. I am waiting for response from the owner let's see.
I'll keep you posted.
Thanks

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**junglern** · October 11, 2015, 08:33 AM

Originally Posted by MDP

I hope it works out well for you, but I do get a little nervous when someone buys because of my opinion. I would offer less and see what happens, that way if you don't care for the sound you can re-sell it at no loss to you.

But I will be surprised if you don't like the combination.

Mark could you take a look at the unit for sale on audiogone for me please. Let me know what could be a decent offer.
I would like to make sure I am buying an updated unit he mentioned 2013 production.
https://app.audiogon.com/listings/so...baton-rouge-la

I do appreciate your time and help .
Thanks

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**junglern** · October 11, 2015, 08:59 AM

Originally Posted by MDP

I hope it works out well for you, but I do get a little nervous when someone buys because of my opinion. I would offer less and see what happens, that way if you don't care for the sound you can re-sell it at no loss to you.

But I will be surprised if you don't like the combination.

Hegel H30
Auditioning P30
Own P20
PS audio DS DAC
Harbeth M 30.1
VPI prime TT
AZ double barrel speakers cables
Nordost RD lief series XLR
AZ absolute copper RCA
Sony 5400es CDP
Graham slee reflex M phono
Denon 103 R cartridge

Taking slow steps to upgrade weak links on the chain but budget limitations is driving me cautiously.
Thanks Mark

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**MDP** · October 11, 2015, 09:00 AM

Originally Posted by junglern

Mark could you take a look at the unit for sale on audiogone for me please. Let me know what could be a decent offer.
I would like to make sure I am buying an updated unit he mentioned 2013 production.
https://app.audiogon.com/listings/so...baton-rouge-la

I do appreciate your time and help .
Thanks

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PM sent

**junglern** · October 11, 2015, 09:02 AM

Originally Posted by MDP

PM sent

Thanks

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**Dpod4** · October 11, 2015, 12:07 PM

Originally Posted by junglern

The herron is a good match with H30?
Thanks

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I did not use the VTPH-2 with the H30 or P30. I ran it into vac, CJ and arc preamps and other amps. And in full disclosure, I sold the Herron since my Air Tight ATE2001 preamp has four phono inputs and my arc ref2se has 2. No longer needed the Herron. But it was bomb proof and beat other phono preamps I demoed (eg Fosgate, Plinius, VAC).

**MarinJim** · October 13, 2015, 10:48 AM

http://www.theabsolutesound.com/arti...-preamplifier/

Happy Tunes!

**joeinid** · October 13, 2015, 11:03 AM

Thanks for the link Jim!

Originally Posted by MarinJim

http://www.theabsolutesound.com/arti...-preamplifier/

Happy Tunes!

**MarinJim** · October 13, 2015, 11:50 AM

Originally Posted by joeinid

Thanks for the link Jim!

My pleasure.

**Justin** · October 19, 2015, 10:58 AM

Quick update: currently demo'ing a couple of preamps from Paul Manos at High Fidelity Services. He has been an absolute pleasure to deal with.

The first one, Audia Flight Strumento n1, wasn't the right match for the sound I'm going after.

The second one, Zanden 3100 tube line stage, is a really serious candidate for purchase. I'm still playing around with it, but so far so good. The music is just pouring out, effortlessly... it has tremendous and natural bass, for a tube pre. The timing, rhythm, timbre... I'm quite smitten at the moment. Absolutely my favorite of the tube preamps I have tried so far. The synergy with rest of system is fantastic... the Rockports have lost a little of that hard edge I was getting before, and I'm finding myself just getting lost in the music.

Any Zanden fans out there? I actually really like the aesthetics of this piece too. A bit different, with the frosted/acrylic front plate... but I listen to much of my music in the dark, and seeing this baby glowing is very pleasing. Really smooth volume control, and sounds fantastic at both soft and really loud levels. I'm liking this one.

**joeinid** · October 19, 2015, 12:17 PM

Zanden is supposed to be fantastic. Awesome to read. I always love a tube preamp in front of the H30 amp. The synergy is off the charts great.

**SQ13Z** · October 20, 2015, 08:02 AM

Actually i am surprise you brought up zanden as i though it fell off the radar in the last 5 years or so and also a lesser known japanese brand. I don't have the zanden pre, only the power amp that comes with a passive attenuator. I can't comment on the pre but the amp is a good looking and sounding too. Sometimes I pair it with modifed airtight pre (internal silver wiring, switch and some black gate caps). You can consider airtight with the h30 besides the zanden.

**Jazzhead** · October 20, 2015, 08:53 AM

Originally Posted by Justin

Quick update: currently demo'ing a couple of preamps from Paul Manos at High Fidelity Services. He has been an absolute pleasure to deal with.

The first one, Audia Flight Strumento n1, wasn't the right match for the sound I'm going after.

The second one, Zanden 3100 tube line stage, is a really serious candidate for purchase. I'm still playing around with it, but so far so good. The music is just pouring out, effortlessly... it has tremendous and natural bass, for a tube pre. The timing, rhythm, timbre... I'm quite smitten at the moment. Absolutely my favorite of the tube preamps I have tried so far. The synergy with rest of system is fantastic... the Rockports have lost a little of that hard edge I was getting before, and I'm finding myself just getting lost in the music.

Any Zanden fans out there? I actually really like the aesthetics of this piece too. A bit different, with the frosted/acrylic front plate... but I listen to much of my music in the dark, and seeing this baby glowing is very pleasing. Really smooth volume control, and sounds fantastic at both soft and really loud levels. I'm liking this one.

Justin , timely feedback on the Zanden and a shot in the arm . Awaiting delivery of the 3000 & 9600 combo . The anticipation builds.

**MarinJim** · October 20, 2015, 12:40 PM

Originally Posted by joeinid

Zanden is supposed to be fantastic. Awesome to read. I always love a tube preamp in front of ANY amp. The synergy is off the charts great.

fixed Joe.

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