Devialet Expert 140 Pro and 210 Dual Pro announced
French audio maestros, Devialet, obviously know a thing-or-two about making attractive hardware. Also, judging by the new Expert Pros, they are equally adept at using the latest technology too.
Continuing their quest to build the best in futuristic audio components they have just released two more models in their Expert Pro range.
The Expert 140 Pro and Expert 210 Pro Dual systems are the newest members of the Expert Pro family. Naturally, they feature all of Devialet’s exclusive technologies to deliver unmatched performance. Additionally, they are also equipped with Core Infinity, Expert Pro’s new intelligent core. They say that “the most awarded audio system in the world just got more affordable and versatile”.
Devialet Expert 140 Pro
The Expert 140 Pro cuts the familiar Devialet silhouette. Hewn from single block of aluminium, the Expert 140 Pro is finished in dark chrome. The 5.65kg amplifier boasts a power output of 2×140 Watts through 6 Ohms. Other notes of interest include distortion at full powered being measured at 0.0005%; signal-to-noise ratio is rated at 130dB.
Connectivity, of course, includes dual band Wi-Fi as well as gigabit Ethernet. Also, there is USB Audio 2.0 Asynchronous as well as up to 4 RCA digital coax inputs and a TOSLINK in. There is also a stereo pair of RCA analogue ins that can be used for the MM/MC phono stage. Output is through speaker posts that will accept 4mm banana plugs, fork connectors or stripped cables. It is also comfortable with all speakers from 8 Ohms to 2 Ohms.
Supported formats include up to 32bits / 192kHz PCM (USB), up to 24bits / 192kHz PCM (AIR, UPnP, Coaxial), Up to 24bits / 96kHz PCM (Optical), and finally, up to 1bit / 3.072000MHz DSD64 (USB, Coaxial).
Devialet Expert 210 Pro Dual
The Expert 210 Pro Dual offers the prowess of dual-mono amplification. However, you can daisy-chain up to 8 of the 5.65kg units.
Devialet even bundles in some cables to enble your swift set-up. The Expert 210 Pro comes with a digital coax link cable for audio and a 3.5mm analogue for commands. They also include 2 SD cards for you.
With this pair you get 2×210 Watts from 6 Ohms and a THD+N at full power of 0.00025%. Signal-to-noise ratio here is 133dB.
The Expert 210 Pro Dual supports the same formats as the 140 but, obviously, throws in a few more inputs.
Both the Expert 140 Pro and Expert 210 Pro Dual features the latest Devialet OS as well as future-proof computing power. Core Infinity opens Expert Pro to the world of music streaming, bringing you a variety of leading streaming protocols.
Devialet Expert Core
From the early days of D-Premier through to the present, Expert systems have been designed for optimal scalability and adaptability. This shows Devialet’s commitment to fighting planned obsolescence.
Core Infinity opens up new possibilities for Expert Pro, bringing you the latest in music streaming as it unfolds. The different streaming protocols embedded in Core Infinity enables you to enjoy all the latest services.
Core Infinity
Featuring the latest Devialet OS and equipped with future-proof computing power, Core Infinity is built for long-lasting performance. The board comes with a Quadcore ARM processor clocked at 1GHz. That is supported by 1GB of RAM-DDR3 memory and 4GB of Flash memory.
Now, the tech bit. The main CPU is supported by an FPGA specifically to provide extra computing power to Devialet OS, optimise audio signal routing and rework clock distribution for minimal digital jitter. Devialet tells us that the gain in audio quality is substantial. There is also a second audio DSP (Digital Signal Processor). This is to prove additional headroom on top of the DSP already included in the mother board so as to support future signal processing features.
Additionally, three ASRC (Asynchronous Sample Rate Converters) are employed in order to leave ample room for future developments, and in particular compatibility with additional sources. Finally, the improved USB interface has also been tailored to accommodate future audio formats.
Expert Pro for streaming audio
When used as an UPnP renderer, your Expert Pro can stream music from any UPnP-compatible app, up to 24bits / 192kHz. Also, AirPlay lets you stream your favourite online music in CD quality from any iOS or Mac OS-enabled device, or via iTunes on Windows-based computers and tablets.
Spotify Connect gives you the freedom to enjoy your Spotify Premium membership on Expert Pro, with bespoke volume control integration and automatic wake-up function.
Finally, the Devialet-patented AIR technology transforms your Expert Pro into a virtual soundcard output for your favourite audiophile player, with up to 24bits / 192kHz streaming in bit-perfect mode.
Upcoming Bluetooth capabilities for Core Infinity will help make Expert Pro even more open and universal in the future.
Bonus for current Expert owners
If you have an Expert 130 Pro with Core Infinity, simply install the latest 13.0.0 firmware available from your Devialet account to bring extra power and Dual-Mono compatibility to your Expert Pro.
However, if you have an Expert Pro without Core Infinity, simply register it on your Devialet account and order your free-of-charge hardware upgrade to Core Infinity.
If you have a non-Pro Expert, then stayed tuned as an upgrade programme to Expert Pro with Core Infinity will re-open soon.
Price and availability
The Expert 140 Pro is priced at £4490, and the Expert 210 Pro Dual £8900.
More information can be had over at their website.