The reason is that the signal strength is very low when entering the pre amplifier, and is therefore very susceptible to high-frequency noise and distortion elements. The most critical phase in the pre amplifier is the volume regulation, and in the P30 this is a masterpiece in itself. The physical volume control knob is only used to describe the desired volume output level to the array of Gigahertz MOS-transistors. These direct the music signal through a network of high-quality resistors that reduce the signal level. After the volume control circuit, the signal is directed through the amplification circuit. For the first time ever we are using the patented SoundEngine technology in the pre amplifier. Combined with Hegel’s use of hand-matched FET transistors, this results in unsurpassed levels of musical distortion and noise. In total, the music signal will only pass through 2 transistors and between 1 to 3 resistors on its way through the P30. The sound you hear from the P30 can only be described as organic and very natural. To quote a journalist: “The Hegel sounds so much more natural than my previous reference. And it does so without flashing itself with gold and diamonds”. The Hegel P30 has 2 pairs of balanced inputs (XLR) and 3 regular unbalanced (RCA). In addition to this, it has a Home Theatre input that allows you to integrate it into a Home Theatre system. The P30 also has a 3,5 mm IR-direct input and a 12V trigger output connector. The Hegel P30 is available in both silver and black finish, so it can be matched with both the H30 and H20 power amplifiers.