INTRODUCING THE HEGEL D50 RAVEN DAC

Hegel has unveiled its latest reference DAC, the D50, also known as “The Raven.” Stripped of unnecessary features, the Hegel D50 Raven DAC  is dedicated solely to digital-to-analogue conversion.

The focus is on delivering a pure, high-fidelity listening experience with exceptional clarity and detail. The Hegel D50 Raven DAC was heard at The Bristol HiFi Show 2025 with Auden Distribution…read more in the report here.

MINIMALIST DESIGN, MAXIMUM PERFORMANCE

The Hegel D50 Raven DAC features a sleek, understated black chassis with no extraneous elements. Every design choice serves its function: designed to ensure an uncoloured, precise reproduction of digital audio.

HEGEL D50 RAVEN DAC

Hegel has spent over two decades refining its DAC technology, and the D50 represents the culmination of that expertise. At its core is a high-performance DAC chip, expertly implemented to extract its full potential. Like the intelligent and tool-using raven that inspired its name, the D50 optimises its components for precision and purity.

PURIFIED POWER SUPPLY FOR NOISE-FREE PERFORMANCE

Ensuring a pristine power supply is crucial to the D50’s performance. It employs two low-noise toroidal transformers: one for digital processing and standby functions, and another dedicated to the sensitive digital-to-analogue circuitry. These transformers are shielded in thick steel to eliminate interference, with additional filtration at multiple stages to maintain a clean power signal.

ADVANCED DIGITAL SIGNAL PROCESSING

The D50 takes a meticulous approach to handling digital signals. The AES/EBU input is equipped with a custom-balanced RS422 receiver, allowing it to manage varying signal strengths while minimising jitter. SPDIF inputs are processed on a dedicated card that reclocks data using three high-precision master clocks, ensuring optimal timing and reducing digital noise. The DAC chip itself is isolated on a separate board to further reduce interference.

SOLID BUILD QUALITY AND PRACTICAL DESIGN

Encased in a robust aluminium chassis, the Hegel D50 DAC is built for durability and sonic performance. Premium connectors ensure long-term reliability, while aluminium feet with rubber soles provide stability. A discreet yet clear display offers essential information without distracting from the listening experience.

USER-FRIENDLY AND CONNECTIVITY-RICH

Despite its high-end engineering, the D50 remains simple to use. It features intelligent input sensing, automatic standby, and display dimming for a streamlined experience. Connectivity options include USB, optical, coaxial RCA, coaxial BNC, and AES/EBU inputs, along with balanced XLR and single-ended RCA analogue outputs, making it a versatile fit for a range of HiFi systems.

HEGEL D50 RAVEN DAC AVAILABILITY AND PRICING

The Hegel D50 Raven DAC will begin shipping in May 2025. It is priced at €4,895 in Europe and $4,900 in the US. UK price is £4250 and available through Auden Distribution’s dealer network.

HiFi PiG Says: The Raven is designed to be a DAC, and just that, for purity of digital to analogue conversion.