Want a svelte streaming amp that looks for all the world like it was hewn by the Greek God Chrysus – the one most associated with precious metal? Devialet can help, with its all-new Astra (which is essentially the name of the Titan God of the stars, planets and so on).
The Astra Opéra de Paris edition is finished in 23-carat gold leaf by artisans from Ateliers Gohard. But under its stunning exterior, it is of course built on past greatness. In this case, Devialet wouldn't necessarily point you towards its spherical Devialet Mania (also available in a 'sunset rose' hue) or the company's fabulous high-end Dione soundbar which boasts the same drivers as those premium in-flight seats. No, Astra is the evolution of Devialet's first creation, the Devialet Expert amplifier, unveiled 15 years ago – yes, now I also feel as old as the Gods.
Connectivity? Ethernet, USB-C 2.0 (data port), digital coaxial inputs (up to 4x RCA 75Ω) digital optical ins (2x Toslink) analog inputs (up to 2x RCA stereo, plus that MM/MC phono stage with 13 equalization curves) are all here – and should you want to stack two of them for double the power, Devialet says that'll be seamless too, with the Devialet control app at the wheel.
Devialet's hi-fi lineup in undeniably stylish – and premium…
I've loved Devialet products since the company announced its luxury in-seat airplane sound systems – the subsequently news that they were arriving in business class on Japan Airlines last year.
For me, the Devialet Astra looks not dissimilar to the also-aspirational Beosound Level wireless speaker made my Bang & Olufsen – but machined from a single aluminum block then anodized, laser-engraved, brushed, and covered with 23-carat gold leaf, rather than the Hygge wood-texture look of the B&O product.
You also get a redesigned, battery-powered USB-C remote in the box. The large knob central to its design reminds me of the even-more-expensive Moon North 761 and 791 amplification system I spent a joyous evening enjoying last year, which can only be a Very Good Thing.
Each Devialet Astra Opéra de Paris in individually numbered – so you know it's not going to come cheap. Ready? The Devialet Astra Opéra de Paris is available now, priced £18,000, which is around $23, 340 or AU$35,070, before any associated duties.
Bit rich for the blood? That's OK, Devialet is also offering the Astra in 'Light Bronze' for just £14,000, or around $18,150. I'll take two…
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