Harman/kardon HK 990

Data

General

• Manufacturer: Harman/kardon
• Model: HK 990
• Type: Integrated amplifier
• Years of manufacture: 2009 - 2012
• Color: Black
• Power consumption: 800 W max.
• New price approx.: 1'549 Euro

Technical data

• Data at "Hifi Engine": [1]

Special Features

• Two transformers
• Audio inputs: 8
• Tape monitor function: Yes
• Phono input: MM and MC
• Digital audio inputs: 2x coaxial, 2x optical
• Processor input: 2.2 channel
• Balanced XLR inputs: Yes
• HRS Link: Yes
• Digital Audio Outputs (Coaxial/Optical): Rear 1/0
• Preamplifier Outputs: Yes
• Subwoofer Output: Yes, Dual
• IR Input/Output Connectors: Yes

Notes

• Other models in the same series:
• Integrated amplifier:
• Harman/kardon HK 980
• Harman/kardon HK 990

• Tuners:
• Harman/kardon TU 980

• Receiver:
• Harman/Kardon HK 3390
• Harman/Kardon HK 3490

• A/V receivers:
• Harman/kardon AVR 160
• Harman/kardon AVR 260
• Harman/kardon AVR 360
• Harman/kardon AVR 460
• Harman/kardon AVR 660
• Harman/kardon AVR 760

• CD player:
• Harman/kardon HD 980
• Harman/kardon HD 990

• Blue Ray Disc Player:
• Harman/kardon BDP 10
• Harman/kardon BDT 20

Pictures

• Image: Harman/kardon HK 990

Reviews

• Stereo 4/2009
• Stereoplay 7/2009
• Test excerpt: Audio 10/2009
  • "...the full programme impressed in comparison to the uncorrected version with Bach's "St. John Passion" by an unbelievable increase in precision and transparency. The low bass of Yuri Honing's "Star Tracks", which is not unproblematic in the living room, suddenly played drone-free and clear to the point. However, those who had listened to the system and the room-induced errors for a longer period of time could also find the corrections excessive, exchanging the previously boomy bass for one that tended to be too lean; turning the previously warm, occasionally swampy fundamental into a merciless precision that high-enders would describe as cool and analytical and that didn't quite fit the character of the B&W speakers used. But no problem without a solution: In the "LF+MF' mode, which dispenses with tweeter correction, a perfect balance between listenability and smoothness was achieved - which improved even more in the living room, which was plagued by room modes, when the Harman was also allowed to calibrate two subs. In the AUDIO listening room such corrections were not necessary, as the room is heavily damped. Here, the HK 990 played its trump cards of performance and neutrality and secured a commanding place in the high-end class. This makes it not only one of the best-sounding amps in its class, but also far ahead of the competition in terms of features and flexibility. AUDIO has rarely had a component in the test that is worth every euro twice and three times over..."

• Rating:
  • + powerful, precise amp with good calibration and gigantic equipment.
  • - phono rather thin
  • Overall rating: high-end class
  • Price/Performance: outstanding