I've often wondered how much of a role "1st impressions" may play into some of our preferences. In my case my 200 came with 7.1.2 and I've experimented with 7.1.3 and 8.1 many times. I don't have easy access to a 7.1.1 card to try and opted out of 8.0 altogether. But surprisingly (or perhaps not) I still find my most frequented & listened to FW is the original. Doesn't hurt that its also the easiest to revert-to with the simple on/off throw of a wall switch where later revisions require slightly more time & effort. I can also appreciate an ''outta-the-box" configuration as experimenting with SAM settings can be all over the map success-wise and tends to remove some of the casual, easy going comfort level in just sitting, listening and enjoying the music. I seldom enjoy being system-critical which I'm discovering is an undesirable symptom that extensive adjustability seems to inflict on me. Now that my 200 is back having its balance issue sorted I find I miss it and long to just sit & listen to it once again. Not the tweaked version mind you but just the way it sounded and worked right outta the box. It was so good and things were so simple and easy. I think that's what I miss most!!
Statements in my posts are opinion only, not to be construed as fact. Any projects I engage in are at my own risk! Their outcome cannot be assured and may result in success, small/no change or catastrophic failure. I encourage no one rely on anything I say or do as gospel and to realize your mileage may vary!