(01-Jun-2015, 10:11)JMRC Wrote: Hello.
I downloaded the 7.1.3 beta FW yesterday and "upgraded" from de SW 7.1.0, which I was very happy with for the last year or so (Sonus Faber Stradivari + SAM).
I enjoyed the wider Sound Stage and a clearer and more articulated bass, but did not like at all the much more high frequency emphasis (via line input), that was quite harsher (digital glare) and unfriendly analytical...
Unfortunately, I will go back to 7.1.0.
JMRC
Yes, there's lots to like about the sound of 7.1.3 but it can sound a little harsh (as does 8.0 which I've abandoned for now). In my system iTunes or Qobuz/AIR has an 'edge' thats a little too harsh on some recordings for my taste when using 7.1.3. Using my Naim NDX (coax) the harshness is much reduced and using that source I do prefer 7.1.3 to 7.1.1.
The Devialet is very transparent so perhaps the harshness is caused by the 'brighter' sound of 7.1.3/8.0 accentuating issues with the source?
EDIT: @JMRC - I just saw your system profile on another post and I wouldn't expect there to be any issues with your source components (unlike my iMac/iTunes/AIR wi-fi )
IMac macOS 10.15.3 (no link to Devialet ) / MacBook Pro Retina OS X 10.14.4 / Linn LP12 / Devialet 200 / Wilson Benesch Discovery.
Qobuz Desktop Latest Version / Audirvana 3.2.18 / Audirvana Remote / iTunes 12.9 / AIR 3.0.4 / Wi-Fi / FW 8.1.0 / SAM 50%
Cambridge, UK (Updated 27th February, 2020)