upgrade is back

[Flashman]

I have also struggled with the decision of what to do. Here is my (current) take on the upgrade program:

1. It’s expensive and the difference in sound quality or overall performance is not exactly big. I sometimes regard it as a way for Devialet to sell you the same amplifier twice. Yes, that’s me being a cynic. Sorry...

2. Devialet will probably launch a new Expert line in a few years time. They have done it before and it’s in their nature. The chassi design is so central to the brand so they will probably not change it. If they do and an upgrade is no longer possible for that reason, it’s still possible to sell or trade in your old Devialet to purchase the latest. If they stick to the chassi design an upgrade will likely be available again and the changes in sound will likely be greater. 

3. Devialet have always struggled to maintain both the stability of software upgrades (AIR) and customer services and this will likely continue for some time. That combination will likely prove extremely frustrating for a lot of people when experiencing problems with the Core Infinity Board, ROON compatibility, etc. 

4. The big thing with Devialet is the ADH technology with incredibly low distortion in a small chassi (this goes for both Expert and Phantom). Period. They will probably never be as successful in any other way with any other hardware or software. Don’t upgrade because you feel a need to have streaming capabilities, but because you experience a big change in sound quality. If it’s not here, then don’t upgrade!

Instead, make sure your living/music room is as suitable as possible for audio and your setup placed correctly. This is often the cheapest way of improving the quality of sound. Too many tend to forget this and instead fuss around with expensive cables and tweaks.

Then give your Devialet optimum electrical/digital conditions to perform and you will be surprised what the amp is capable of! Start with a) improving the quality of the electricity using a really good power conditioner (I use the RM15 from Torus and it makes a huge difference in sound), b) a really good digital source (I use the dCS Network Bridge and it’s simply amazing). 

Yes, a good conditioner and a good source costs all lot of money BUT you can use the units for many years to come in a setup with or without Devialet.

@MightyMart Good observations.  I probably will stick with my Devialet 200, most importantly because Roon's innovative integration with Devialet finally realized the promise of Devialet AIR.  Plus, the SQ is really good.  I really can't justify the added coin for the upgrade and believe there are other ways to optimize my set up.  Anyway, I've enjoyed the discussion and will continue to read comments on Devialet Chat.