SKU: 18255170607

Hegel Preamplifier P20

Sale price$1890.00 Regular price$2100.00
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Description

Hegel Preamplifier P20Hegel P20 Preamplifier The Hegel P20 is the entry level preamplifier from Hegel Music Systems (Oslo, Norway), available at Vinyl Sound in Toronto, Canada. Sharing the same design philosophy as the reference P30A and achieving a signal to noise ratio exceeding 130 dB in balanced mode, the P20 offers a genuine entry point into Hegel's reference separates line at a significantly more accessible price. Built around innovative Silicon Germanium transistors

Hegel P20 Preamplifier

The Hegel P20 is the entry-level preamplifier from Hegel Music Systems (Oslo, Norway), available at Vinyl Sound in Toronto, Canada. Sharing the same design philosophy as the reference P30A and achieving a signal-to-noise ratio exceeding 130 dB in balanced mode, the P20 offers a genuine entry point into Hegel's reference separates line at a significantly more accessible price. Built around innovative Silicon Germanium transistors and high-frequency components repurposed in ways unique to Hegel, the P20 delivers the enormous soundstage, deep rhythmic bass, and precise timing that define the Hegel sound in a compact, beautifully finished chassis.

Reference Preamplifier Performance at an Accessible Price

Hegel considers the preamplifier the most delicate and most critical component in any audio system. Because signal levels at the preamplifier stage are so low, even the smallest amounts of noise or distortion obscure fine detail and collapse the soundstage. Designing the P20 to match the P30A's 130 dB SNR figure required Hegel to develop entirely new approaches rather than simply scaling down the reference design. The answer was Silicon Germanium transistors, a material with superior noise and linearity characteristics compared to conventional silicon, combined with high-frequency components not originally intended for audio, implemented in circuit topologies that had never previously been applied in preamplifier design. The result is an open, natural, and remarkably detailed sound at a price point that sets a new standard for the category.

Key Features

  • Signal-to-Noise Ratio Greater Than 130 dB (Balanced): Matches the reference P30A's SNR figure, delivering a pitch-black background in any system regardless of price
  • Silicon Germanium Transistors: Superior noise and linearity characteristics versus conventional silicon transistors, enabling reference-grade quiet operation at an entry-level price point
  • Balanced XLR Input and Output: True balanced signal path for minimal noise when used with balanced power amplifiers and source components
  • 5 Total Inputs: 1 x balanced XLR, 4 x unbalanced RCA, plus a dedicated Home Theater bypass input
  • Home Theater Bypass Input: Fixed-level input for seamless integration with a surround processor as part of a home theater system
  • Balanced XLR, Unbalanced RCA, and Fixed Recording Outputs: Simultaneous connectivity to power amplifiers, subwoofers, and recording devices
  • RC8 Solid Aluminium Remote Control: Milled from a single piece of aluminium with bead-blasted and anodised finish matching the preamplifier; controls volume, source selection, and mute; also controls all other Hegel products
  • THD Below 0.005%: Reference-grade distortion figure shared with the P30A
  • Bead-Blasted and Anodised Aluminium Chassis: Premium surface finish with a tactile quality that matches the P30A aesthetic at a more accessible scale

Technical Specifications

Signal-to-Noise Ratio > 130 dB (balanced mode)
Crosstalk < -100 dB
THD < 0.005%
Intermodulation Distortion < 0.01% (19 kHz + 20 kHz)
Analogue Inputs 1 x XLR Balanced, 4 x RCA Unbalanced, 1 x Home Theater (fixed level)
Analogue Outputs 1 x XLR Balanced, 1 x RCA Unbalanced, 1 x RCA Fixed Recording
Remote Control RC8 solid aluminium; volume, source, mute; controls all Hegel products
Finish Black (bead-blasted and anodised aluminium)
Dimensions (H x W x D) 8 x 43 x 30 cm / 3.2" x 17" x 12"
Weight 10 kg / 22 lbs

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Hegel P20?

The Hegel P20 is the entry-level preamplifier in Hegel's reference separates line, delivering a signal-to-noise ratio exceeding 130 dB in balanced mode and THD below 0.005%. It features Silicon Germanium transistors, a balanced XLR input and output, five total inputs including Home Theater bypass, and Hegel's RC8 solid aluminium remote control. It is the most accessible entry point into Hegel's separates preamplifier lineup.

What is the difference between the Hegel P20 and the P30A?

Both the P20 and P30A achieve a signal-to-noise ratio exceeding 130 dB in balanced mode and THD below 0.005%. The P30A adds a fully balanced dual-amplifier architecture per channel with hand-matched FET transistors selected by Hegel's chief engineer, SoundEngine feed-forward distortion correction, a second balanced XLR input, and additional output flexibility including a configurable fixed-level output. The P20 uses Silicon Germanium transistors and a more streamlined circuit to achieve the same headline figures at a lower price point. For most listeners the P20 represents exceptional value; the P30A is the choice for those building an uncompromising reference system.

What power amplifier pairs best with the Hegel P20?

The P20 works with any Hegel power amplifier via its balanced XLR or unbalanced RCA outputs. The Hegel H20 stereo power amplifier is a natural and well-matched partner at a comparable price level. The P20 is also fully compatible with third-party power amplifiers. Contact Vinyl Sound Toronto for a personalised system recommendation based on your speakers and budget.

Does the Hegel P20 have a phono input?

No. The P20 is a pure line-level preamplifier with no built-in phono stage. Vinyl listeners should add a dedicated phono preamplifier such as the Hegel V10, connected to one of the P20's four unbalanced RCA inputs or its balanced XLR input.

Can the Hegel P20 be used in a home theater system?

Yes. The P20 includes a dedicated Home Theater bypass input that accepts a fixed-level signal from a surround processor, allowing the P20 and a partnering stereo power amplifier to serve as the front-channel stage in a home theater setup without interfering with the P20's volume control in two-channel mode.

What is the RC8 remote control and what does it do?

The RC8 is Hegel's solid aluminium remote control, milled from a single piece of metal with the same bead-blasted and anodised finish as the P20 chassis. It controls volume, source selection, and mute on the P20, and also operates all other Hegel products in the system including integrated amplifiers and CD players, eliminating the need for multiple remotes.

Where can I buy the Hegel P20 in Toronto or Canada?

The Hegel P20 is available at Vinyl Sound in Toronto, Canada, an authorised Hegel dealer. Contact us to arrange an in-store audition or to discuss pairing the P20 with a Hegel power amplifier and speakers suited to your room and listening preferences.

Shipping Notes
  • Free Standard Shipping on $100+ Orders to the USA.
  • Except Preorder products are shipped in 48 hours.
  • Delivery to the USA:
  1. Standard Shipping : 3-10 business days
  • If time is of the essence, please consider selecting expedited delivery for faster service.
Exchange/Return Notes
  • We offer a 30-day return/exchange service after receiving.
  • Final sale items are not eligible for returns or exchanges.
  • To process your return/exchange, please contact us at [email protected]
  • Please click here for more details>>> Return & Exchange Policy
SKU: 18255170607

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Julie Lopp
Carnegie, US
★★★★★ 5
Great product! I love the feel of these.
Size: Queen, Color: White
“I recently purchased the Serta Power Chill Cooling Pillow Protectors, and they have been a game-changer for my sleep comfort. These pillow protectors have exceeded my expectations in several ways. First and foremost, the cooling technology is fantastic. I tend to sleep hot, especially during the summer months, and these pillow protectors have made a noticeable difference. They keep my pillows cool and comfortable throughout the night, which has led to more restful and uninterrupted sleep. The fit is also excellent. They easily slip over my standard-sized pillows and stay securely in place without any annoying bunching, wrinkles or slipping during the night. And the zipper is amazing. Having no wrinkles in my cover is easier on my hair. What’s great about these protectors is that they not only keep my pillows cool but also protect them from spills, stains, and allergens. It gives me peace of mind knowing that my pillows are safeguarded while I enjoy a cool and refreshing sleep environment. There is no noise when sleeping on this cover, it’s soft. Cleaning is a breeze. They are machine-washable and maintain their cooling properties even after multiple washes. The quality of the materials used is evident. These protectors feel durable and well-made, promising long-lasting use. While they are slightly more expensive than basic pillow protectors, the added cooling benefits and protection they offer are well worth the investment. They’ve made a significant difference in my sleep quality, and I highly recommend the Serta Power Chill Cooling Pillow Protectors to anyone seeking a cooler and more comfortable night’s sleep.”
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Reviewed in the United States on October 6, 2023
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Birdie
San Leandro, US
★★★★★ 4
Loose on standard pillow.
Size: Queen, Color: White
Too large for standard pillow. It would fit a queen size pillow much better. It does stay cool.
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Reviewed in the United States on November 20, 2025
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AmazonSmile
Alexandria, US
★★★★★ 5
Soft and cool. Very cool. 🧊
Size: Queen, Color: White
I bought these for my memory foam pillow and they’re excellent for cooling it. I use 2 of these on the pillow for maximum chill factor and it works. They’re very soft, the zippers are high quality. Easy to put on with a bit of stretch- generously sized. They’re stain resistant. I’m glad they’re NOT waterproof because they’d be too hot then. They’re very durable. Wash on delicate setting in a mesh bag and air dry and they last long. They’re very quiet- smooth and silky. Definitely recommend!
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Reviewed in the United States on January 15, 2026
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Jamie Cowan
Alexandria, US
★★★★★ 3
Cool enough
Size: Queen, Color: White, Size: Queen, Color: White
I thought I had purchased pillows so when I received these I was a little disappointed. However that was 100% on me for not reading the listing and just trusting my search. I decided to give them a try and so far they seem ok. They don’t stay cool even though I have them on cooling pillows. They are super thin but very soft. They fit on my pillows perfectly. I don’t think it has improved my sleep quality but it hasn’t made it any worse either. I don’t think they are waterproof but I don’t really want to test that. I like that the zipper is small and seems to be decent quality. Smelled heavily of chemicals when I first took it out of the package but that disappeared after a few minutes.
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Reviewed in the United States on March 21, 2026
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Amazon Customer
Bozeman, US
★★★★★ 5
Sleep like a baby
Size: Queen, Color: White
These pillow covers are cool. They keep you cool at night. very, very comfortable.
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Reviewed in the United States on May 13, 2026

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