HEGEL - Is it really made in Norway ?

"09-10-15: Onhwy61
Back on 8/31 I stated:
Hegel should proudly proclaim designed in Norway/made in China.
I'm glad you finally agree with me. Let peace reign.
Onhwy61 (System | Threads | Answers | This Thread)"

I don't think anyone here would disagree with that one. As far as "finally" agreeing with you, I usually do agree with you when you're talking about audio equipment.

Hegel avoids to write made in China for commercial reasons. The majority of high end audio buyers avoid equipment of Chinese origin for two reasons:
a. Lower prestige products compared to those produced in U.S., UK, Germany, France, Switzerland etc.
I'm wondering, if their amps were build in Germany, would they still insist to hide this info?
b. Considerable loss of value in the second hand market.

Their refusal to provide important information, shows lack of respect for their customers.

Hegel is not alone covering origin of manufacturing. Look at the Ayon - the same story.

"09-10-15: Sabai
Aolmrd1241,
Being up front should certainly be company policy when if comes to asking customers to pay $5000 or more for high end audio products."

And certainly any amount less than $5,000 also...

Vez,

You stated, "Hegel avoids to write made in China for commercial reasons." This is clearly what is happening, IMO.

You also stated, "Their refusal to provide important information, shows lack of respect for their customers." I agree. I believe their attitude towards me in the case I cited earlier in this thread reinforces this fact. When problems arise with their products they appear to be selective when it comes to whom they will show respect to -- depending on the perceived commercial risks to their company. IMO, they are very short-sighted -- and foolish -- in this respect. After talking with Hegel a number of times I was astonished by their attitude. Frankly, it was hard to believe I was talking to a high end audio company. I have had contact with dozens of high end audio companies over the years and had never experienced such a self-protective attitude before.

My contact with Hegel left me wondering where their reputation comes from. As long as things go well with their products everything is fine. When things do not go so well you just entered their high end audio casino. You may win or you may lose. This is no way to run a high end audio company. Refusing to disclose where their products are made is also glaring proof -- and reinforces my belief -- that there is something very odd happening in their corporate culture that needs to be seriously reviewed, IMO.

Aolmrd1241,

You're right, of course, when you stated, "less than $5,000 also".