McIntosh MA5300 vs Hegel H390

McIntosh MA5300 vs Hegel H390

High-end integrated amplifiers that deliver exceptional performance and a variety of features are the McIntosh MA5300 and Hegel H390. However, before making a purchase, you should take into account some distinctions between the two.

Here are some significant variations:

  • In terms of power output, the Hegel H390 outperforms the McIntosh MA5300. The MA5300 provides 100 watts per channel into an 8 ohm load, compared to the H390’s 250 watts per channel. This indicates that the H390 is better suited for driving larger spaces and more demanding speakers.
  • DAC: The Hegel H390 comes with an integrated, high-performance DAC that enables you to directly connect digital sources to the amplifier. Contrarily, the McIntosh MA5300 lacks a built-in DAC, necessitating the purchase of a separate DAC in order to connect digital sources.
  • Features: The Hegel H390 lacks a number of features, including a built-in phono stage for turntable connectivity, a headphone amplifier, and tone controls. These functions are available on the McIntosh MA5300. However, the H390 offers a network streaming capability that lets you stream music from a number of services, such as Tidal, Spotify, and Qobuz.
  • Design: Both amplifiers are well-built and have a modern appearance, although the McIntosh MA5300 has a more traditional appearance thanks to its vintage-inspired controls and classic VU meters. On the other hand, the Hegel H390 has a more contemporary and simple appearance.

In short, the Hegel H390 might be a better option if you’re searching for an integrated amplifier with a high power output and a built-in DAC. The McIntosh MA5300 may be the better option if you like features like a phono stage and tone controls as well as a more traditional appearance.

 

More about the McIntosh MA5300

The American manufacturer of audio equipment McIntosh Laboratories Inc. created and produced the premium integrated amplifier known as the McIntosh MA5300.

The MA5300’s main attributes and details are shown below:

  • 100 or 160 watts per channel into 8 or 4 ohms, respectively, of output power
  • From 20Hz to 20kHz, total harmonic distortion is less than 0.005% at any setting.
  • >95 dB of signal-to-noise ratio
  • 20Hz to 20kHz frequency response (+0, -0.5dB)
  • 10 inputs, including 2 balanced inputs, 1 moving magnet phono input, and 4 digital and 6 analog.
  • 3 outputs (1 pre-out, 1 fixed output, 1 headphone jack)
  • Two coaxial, two optical, and one USB digital input (up to 32-bit/384kHz and DSD256 playback)
  • 8-channel, 32-bit, 192 kHz DAC (upgradable to DSD512)
  • The item is 17.5″ x 7.625″ x 22″ in size (W x H x D) (44.45cm x 19.37cm x 55.88cm)
  • Weight: 65 lbs (29.5 kg)

On the front panel of the MA5300 are also found McIntosh’s distinctive blue watt meters and their patented Power Guard technology, which works to minimize clipping and distortion.

The McIntosh MA5300 is an excellent integrated amplifier that produces loud and precise sound overall. It is made for audiophiles who expect the highest build and performance, and because of its flexible inputs, it can be used with a variety of audio sources.

 

More about the Hegel H390

Hegel Audio Systems of Norway produces the premium integrated amplifier known as the Hegel H390. Below are some of its main characteristics and details:

  • 250 watts per channel into an 8-ohm load or 420 watts per channel into a 4-ohm load.
  • At all power levels, total harmonic distortion is less than 0.005%.
  • >100dB signal-to-noise ratio
  • 5Hz to 100kHz frequency response (+0, -0.5dB)
  • Two analog balanced XLR, three analog unbalanced RCA, one moving magnet phono, one coaxial digital, three optical digital, and one USB (up to 32-bit/384kHz and DSD256 playback) are the available inputs.
  • Outputs: one headphone jack and one pre-out
  • 32-bit/192 kHz, MQA decoding, DAC
  • Ethernet, Wi-Fi, AirPlay, DLNA, Roon, and other network connectivity Ready
  • Spotify Connect, TIDAL, Qobuz, and Internet radio are examples of streaming services.
  • Measurements are 17.1″ x 5.1″ x 16.9″ (43.5cm x 13cm x 43cm)
  • Weight: 39.7 lbs (18 kg)

Hegel’s unique SoundEngine 2 technology, which reduces distortion and offers precise and dynamic sound reproduction, is also included in the Hegel H390. The H390 is a flexible option for people who want to play music from a number of sources thanks to its network connectivity and streaming features.

Overall, the Hegel H390 is a strong and adaptable integrated amplifier that produces outstanding sound and is compatible with a variety of audio sources. It is made for audiophiles who need top-notch performance and adaptability from their audio gear.

 

Here are what others are asking:

How good is a McIntosh MA5300?

The McIntosh MA5300 is a high-end integrated amplifier that has received many positive reviews from audiophiles and music lovers. It is a solid performer that is known for its excellent sound quality and versatility.

One of the standout features of the MA5300 is its power output. It delivers 100 watts per channel into 8 ohms, which is more than enough power to drive a wide range of speakers, even those with lower sensitivities.

The MA5300 also has a built-in preamplifier section, which allows you to connect a wide variety of sources, including turntables, digital sources, and even portable devices. The preamp section also includes a high-quality phono stage for connecting a turntable directly to the amplifier, which is a great feature for vinyl enthusiasts.

In terms of sound quality, the MA5300 is known for its smooth, natural sound with a great level of detail and clarity. It is a well-balanced amplifier that doesn’t emphasize any specific frequency range, resulting in a natural and engaging sound signature.

Overall, the McIntosh MA5300 is an excellent integrated amplifier that offers high-end features and exceptional sound quality. It is a great choice for anyone looking for a versatile and high-performance amplifier.

 

Where is Hegel H390 made?

The Hegel H390 integrated amplifier is designed and manufactured in Norway. Hegel is a Norwegian company that was founded in 1988, and all of its products are made in Norway. Hegel has gained a reputation for producing high-end audio equipment with excellent build quality, and the H390 is no exception. The company places a strong emphasis on quality control and uses high-quality components in all of its products, resulting in a high level of reliability and customer satisfaction.

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