Upgrade details

[Damon]

What have I missed? Isn't this the only upgrade that's been offered in the last three years?

Nothing missed. I was not clear in my post. I was referring to the 110>120, 17>200 etc updates, and then to the coming hardware upgrade option.

Plus the odd firmware update; think of the hours of fun that have been provided: owners leaping up front their chairs to change firmware versions, then sitting with eyes closed and heads bowed, listening intently for changes in the sound.... Then of course coming here to dissect it with their friends. Just as I do, except for the firmware upgrade part.

For the pending upgrade announcement, I don't see the stunt or the mess. Yes, we all agree that the content and timing of the delivery of information of the upgrade has been erratic, and yes, it is usually in the dramatic, excessive language that Devialet has settled on. But every bit of truth or rumour has been shredded, chewed and regurgitated over and over on this forum and (I assume) other forums.

Some current owners will be in a better upgrade position than others depending on length of ownership or model owned. Life isn't fair, and changes in a product line will inevitably disappoint some owners. Others will be thrilled. One day the D1000 Pro may be discontinued and replaced by a newer model. I have no expectation other than hoping this will be an upgrade that keeps Devialet at the forefront of hi-fi that is innovative, creative and produces sound that is among the best in the world.

To this last point, I think Devialet is all of those things with it's current line-up and I can't understand why anyone would be staking their continued ownership of Devialet on the hardware upgrade. If the product is worth owning now, last week, last year, then it is still worth owning. The option of a major factory-performed hardware transplant is very unusual in this world. It is not a flaw. If constantly buying new boxes is the hobby then this upgrade is an opportunity, not a crisis. 

Personally, I think the D120 is a remarkable product and a remarkable value at it's price. I assume others of more expensive models felt the same way when they settled on Devialet. I think it is interesting to see what a manufacturer can offer at the entry level; it is always easier to do more with more money, but the budget end of a product line is most intriguing (example KEF LS50). I feel the D120 is likely the last amplifier I will ever buy so the upgrade option is a matter of interest more than an automatic purchase plan.

Unless, of course, there is a new limited edition in orange paisley. Devialet, are you listening?