Astra vs Expert Pro on paper

[audio_engr]

It should be remembered that the Expert Pro configurator has bugs that have never been resolved.  This is particularly true for dual mono setups such as my 440 Pro.  To be honest, I avoid attempting to use the configurator as much as possible because to do so means starting from scratch each time.  Editing an existing configuration often (but not always) creates a configuration problem. 

So from my perspective, the biggest benefit of the Astra is the way it's configurator is designed.  But then, I doubt enough are in use yet such that issues there have cropped up.

To be honest, I still thoroughly enjoy my 440 Pro and, other than the configurator, it works great (I use it primarily with Roon but also to spin vinyl on occasion (excellent phono section).  But when it's time to replace it, I highly doubt it will be with another Devialet product.

You have nailed my opinions 100%. 

- I too have a 440-Pro setup and refrain as much as possible from any configure changes due to the issues that you perfectly detailed.
- My 440-Pro presently is serving my purpose well since 2018 (7 yrs) and I will keep it going as I've worked hard with it to arrive at a sonic / aesthetic setup that satisfies me. But over time, I will move on and it's 100% that it won't be Devialet anymore.