28-Oct-2016, 20:56
(28-Oct-2016, 17:40)Damon Wrote: This week I looked into the upgrade costs more carefully. Having a D120, I understand that I get 'a good deal' in terms of total cash outlay for a D220 Pro; the original cost plus the upgrade is less than the price of a D220 P, which here in Canada is a penny or dollar under $14,000.00.I am also not a "hifi junkie". The D120 was part of a new hifi set up after many years of happily listening to my old one. I am happy with the D120 but have decided to upgrade for three reasons. Firstly, I suspect I will get some improved sound quality. The D200 was just outside my budget when I bought my new system - being from the old school - I went for the better quality speakers at the expense of the amp. Secondly, the D220 will be in line for further technical upgrades. While I am "old school" I was an early adopter of digital music both as compact discs and now as digital download/streaming. There could be further improvements to the stability and quality of the whole digital environment. And thirdly, who can resist a bargain! It certainly is for the D120 owners. Fortunately, I can now afford this so have signed up for it as soon as the offer became available.
Paying for the upgrade, done through the Devialet website is 3,450 Euros. It does say it includes all taxes and duties. That will be about $5,200.00 CDN. The dealer price shows a cost close to $6,000.00.
I'm not quibbling with the cost or 'value' of the upgrade, but I wondering why I would make such an investment. By that I mean that I did not buy a D200 18 months ago, so why would I be considering it now? If there was no upgrade path, I certainly would not be considering a new Pro. If there were no new Pro line, I would continue happily with my D120.
I'm certainly interested in the improvements, and I read the posts from others who have the upgrade or who have listened at dealers. I think that I've been caught up in the idea of having the new and current item; an even better version of the amp that I am still crazy about.
I'm not a constant upgrader, and I don't play in the hi-fi hobby by always looking or searching for changes and improvements to my system. If I listened to music and found myself feeling that I wasn't getting what I wanted, then I would go out and snoop around for ways to improve the system. But in truth, I'm very happy with what I have.
I'm really just musing out loud her (in type), and trying to re-balance my own perspective on whether I will do the upgrade. Of course, If I didn't think that others would have some valuable thoughts and comments, I would not write here, so comments are very welcome.
Do any other D120 owners feel themselves in a similar quandary?
I cannot envisage Devialet keeping this offer open for ever.