27.10.2022 20:20
We recently released a review of the Devialet Expert 220 Pro integrated amplifier – and now the model range of the famous French company has been updated. So, Devialet Astra is presented – according to the company, this is a real Rubicon for good sound. “Fifteen years ago, we revolutionized the audiophile world with our first creation, the Devialet Expert amplifier. Today, we’re entering a new dimension of sound with Devialet Astra, our most advanced audiophile system yet.”
Devialet Astra rethinks the concept of High Fidelity, offering 2 x 300 W (4Ω speakers) of output power with zero distortion (Distortion - 0.0006% at 100 Wrms, 4Ω, 1kHz), zero saturation, this is the culmination of the company’s work over the past 15 years.
Devialet Astra integrated amplifier features a built-in digital-to-analog converter and streamer, and has a full set of inputs (coaxial and optical digital inputs, USB-C, MM/MC phonostage, line inputs, Ethernet and Wi-Fi). Devialet Astra is based on the iMX8 processor and a new version of Devialet Operating System, DOS3 with new Configurator system and offers Devialet’s proprietary amplification ADH technology (Class A and Class D combination), offering the widest frequency range possible. A Speaker Active Matching (SAM) module is also on board, as is the company’s new RAM technology, which allows dynamic equalizer adjustments based on the characteristics of your turntable and adapting the phono stage for optimal performance.
If you already own a Devialet Expert, the company will offer you a return and refund of your old amplifier when you buy a Devialet Astra. The price range for Devialet Astra is 16,000 – 20,000 euros depending on finish (silver or Opéra de Paris gold edition).
This product is in the Hi-Fi and High End Electronics and Acoustics database
Model name
Astra
Type
Streaming integrated amplifier with DAC and ADC
Analog inputs (balanced)
2
Analog inputs (single-ended)
1
Input sensitivity (mV)
N/A
Input impedance (balanced) (Ω)
N/A
Input impedance (single-ended) (Ω)
N/A
Output impedance (balanced) (Ω)
N/A
Output impedance (single-ended) (Ω)
N/A
D/A conversion
Yes
Phono MM/MC current-sensing input impedance (Ω)
N/A
Output power (8Ω) (W)
2 x 150
Output power (4Ω) (W)
2 x 300
Gain (dBu)
N/A
Frequency response low +/- 3dB (Hz)
0
Frequency response high +/- 3dB (Hz)
88000
Signal to Noise Ratio (dB)
117
Total Harmonic Distortion + Noise (%)
0.0006
Damping factor
2000
Dimensions (mm)
386 x 386 x 47
Weight (kg)
7.2
Official link
Image source - https://www.devialet.com/en-eu/amplifiers/
The wood-veneered cabinets of the new Wharfedale ASTON bookshelf loudspeakers immediately catch the eye – but “on board” such a strict classic solution is a whole bunch of innovations. The model is equipped with a 6" (150 mm) brand-new Mid/Bass driver with a diffuser made of Carbon Fibre. The driver is mounted in a rigid, cast chassis, which eliminates unwanted resonances as much as possible.
TEAC has introduced the compact TEAC AP-507 two-channel power amplifier, which implements the latest Hypex NCOREx Class D technology. Compared to its predecessor AP-505, the TEAC AP-507 is equipped with an updated amplifier module with higher output power and low distortion. In addition, the TEAC AP-507 amplifier supports bridge mode for use as a powerful monoblock.
Pro-Ject has released the Pro-Ject DAC Box RS Final Edition digital-to-analog converter – the new product features a pair of audiophile Diamond ECC88 tubes. All circuit elements of the Pro-Ject Audio DAC Box RS Final Edition have undergone a special selection, and the internal wiring has also been upgraded. The DAC output stage is implemented in a balanced circuit, while the tube circuit can be either connected or disconnected using a button on the front panel.
The American manufacturer of High-End audio equipment, Boulder, has introduced a new stereo power amplifier, the Boulder 1162. The model offers 2 x 300 watts of power into 8 ohm speakers and a staggering 2 x 900 watts into 4 ohm load.
McIntosh has unveiled the McIntosh DS200 network streamer – a high-end device that combines high-quality digital-to-analog conversion and ergonomic streaming. The model offers Spotify Connect and TIDAL Connect options along with Apple AirPlay, Roon Ready, Bluetooth 5.0 (AAC, and Qualcomm aptX HD), and Google Cast (Google Assistant compatible for voice control is also on board) – so you won’t need any additional apps to control the device.