Expert Pro sound quality

[chippyguy]

The chip the Devialet is using is three generations back at least. Modern chips outperform it with regards to S/N ratio, architecture, etc. just look at the new generation of AKM or ESS. Of course, the chip by itself is meaningless unless it is followed by a well engineered analog part and this is where the Devialet has done a truly excellent job.

I will agree that of the Devialet does not upgrade the dac chip, any cost above €1000 will be too expensive and even pointless. The sound improvement will not justify the cost.

Now matter how much I love my D200, truth must be told

I agree but must say it's the total sum of parts that make the Devialet simply work as the upgrade goes  it was well worth it the sound is completely different 
Also worth noting that Devialet use a similar configuration in using a class a and class b amps  
That was the old quad 405 called then current dumping I had one ! 
It's was ok in the day but no way can ŷou compare it to the Devialet just look inside 
That quad had a lot of internal wiring.  That's gone on the Devialet