In a world where audio excellence is often an elusive pursuit, there are a handful of brands that are ever reliable (and often listed in our Best in Gear annual compendium). Devialet has consistently emerged as a beacon of innovation and luxury; every new drop is a highly anticipated event among technophiles and audiophiles. Now, the French acoustic engineering company has unveiled its latest masterpiece—the Devialet Astra, a high-end amplifier that promises to redefine the auditory experience for discerning listeners.
Launched in Hong Kong this past November, Robb Report Hong Kong went in for a spin (so to speak) as the hype and hoopla dusted down to spend some time with this avant-garde device that seamlessly harmonises cutting-edge technology with minimalist aesthetics, appealing to both audiophiles and design aficionados alike. Unfamiliar with new-age music, we requested a 1960s throwback album, and the Sound of Silence was palpably felt.
At its core, the Devialet Astra embodies the company’s signature Analog Digital Hybrid (ADH) technology, a revolutionary approach that combines the purity of analogue amplification with the compact power of digital systems. It’s this advanced integration that allows the Astra to deliver an impressive 2×300 watts in stereo mode and a staggering 2×600 watts in dual mono configuration, ensuring that every note is rendered with unparalleled clarity and depth. In fact, the amplifier’s frequency response extends to remarkable limits, capturing the nuanced details that make live performances so captivating.
“Our ability to reproduce sound in infinite detail brings true and vibrant emotions to life,” says Devialet CEO Jacques Demont, and this sentiment is echoed throughout the design and engineering of the Astra, which boasts a sleek, brushed-aluminium exterior inspired by the Art Deco movement. The result is an object of beauty that not only enhances auditory experiences but is also stark in its simplicity, serves as a visual statement in any setting.
Significantly, the Astra integrates a suite of proprietary technologies that elevate its performance. Speaker Active Matching (SAM) technology ensures that the audio signal is precisely adapted to the unique specifications of passive speakers, preserving their acoustic signature in real time. This capability is bolstered by Record Active Matching (RAM) technology, which allows for dynamic EQ adjustments tailored to the specific characteristics of any turntable or vinyl record. Such innovations underscore Devialet’s commitment to providing an audio experience that is as personalised as it is powerful.
The Astra is available in two exquisite finishes: the Light Bronze model and the exclusive Opéra de Paris edition, adorned with 23-carat gold leaf applied by master gilders Les Ateliers Gohard. This partnership not only highlights Devialet’s dedication to craftsmanship but also its commitment to cultural heritage, as seen in its long-standing collaboration with the Opéra National de Paris. With a price point starting at HK$149,900 for the Light Bronze stereo configuration and ascending to HK$377,800 for the dual mono Opéra de Paris edition, the Astra positions itself at the pinnacle of luxury audio equipment. Its launch in Hong Kong marks the beginning of a broader rollout across the Asia-Pacific region in March 2025.
All images courtesy of Devialet.
