From Paris to the SHS Studio: Our Early Impressions of the Phantom Ultimate 98dB & 108dB
Ten years after the original Devialet Phantom shook the audio world, the luxury French brand is back with the all-new Phantom Ultimate – what they’re calling the evolution of the revolution. But can they really level it up again?
We flew out to Paris to get an early listen and now have the 98dB in our studio for hands-on testing. In this first look, we’ll share our impressions of both the Phantom Ultimate 98dB and 108dB, what’s changed, and why this new generation feels like it could be something really special.
Why the Phantom Ultimate Matters
Back in 2015, the original Devialet Phantom wasn’t just another wireless speaker. It was outrageous, divisive, and unlike anything else on the market. Some people loved its bold design and insane bass, while others thought it was too much. But either way, it made a statement and forced the whole industry to pay attention.
Fast forward ten years, and Devialet say they’re ready for the next generation. This time, the lineup has been massively simplified: instead of four models, it’s now just two. The Phantom Ultimate 98dB and the Phantom Ultimate 108dB.
We’ll dig into the key differences later on, but right now the big question is probably the same one we had: have they ramped up the prices?
Devialet Phantom Ultimate: Pricing & Availability
Whenever a new generation drops, the first thing on everyone’s mind is usually the price. With the Phantom Ultimate, we were expecting a noticeable bump. But honestly, that’s not really been the case.
- Phantom Ultimate 98dB → around £100 more in the standard finishes, and about £50 more for the Opera de Paris edition.
- Phantom Ultimate 108dB → the same price as the previous generation in the core finishes. The catch? The remote is no longer bundled in and now sells separately for £189. The Opera de Paris 108dB has had the biggest jump, up by £200.
Given the performance upgrades (which we’ll get into shortly), these increases feel surprisingly restrained. We went in expecting Devialet to push things further, so in the world of luxury wireless speakers, this is a bit of a win.
See the latest Devialet Phantom Ultimate pricing here:
Devialet Phantom Ultimate: Design & Build Quality
If there’s one thing Devialet doesn’t do, it’s subtle. The Phantom Ultimate is designed to stand out, and when we placed the new Phantom Ultimate 98dB next to the older Phantom II 98dB, the differences jumped out straight away.
New Finishes
The lineup now comes in three finishes, all with a new matte coating that instantly feels more premium:
- Light Pearl – the one we’ve been testing in the studio, clean and modern.
- Deep Forest – a bold new shade that shifts between black and green depending on the light.
- Opera de Paris – the most lavish of the lot, with 22-carat gold leaf hand-applied for that true luxury statement.
Side by side, the matte finish makes the old gloss look dated (and we used to think the gloss looked premium!) The new coating feels more contemporary and fits Devialet’s sculptural aesthetic perfectly.
Touch Controls & Redesigned Grille
On top, you’ll find touch controls for volume and playback, a handy addition if you don’t opt for the separate remote.
Up front, the tweeter grille has been reimagined. Devialet says the design is inspired by 18th-century French gardens and Chladni wave patterns. It’s a poetic touch, but it’s not just about looks. The grille is more open than before, which improves high-frequency dispersion and brings extra detail into the mix.
Internals: Serious Upgrades Where It Counts
Of course, the Phantom Ultimate isn’t just about looks. Devialet has reworked the core tech inside both the 98dB and 108dB models, and from our initial time with them, these upgrades feel meaningful.
Shared Improvements (98dB & 108dB)
Both models benefit from:
- New-gen ADH amplification – Devialet’s hybrid of analogue and digital amplification, now more efficient and more precise at the top end.
- Improved power supply – lessons carried over from the Devialet Astra, making the Phantom Ultimate more efficient, able to sustain higher levels for longer, and less power-hungry when idle.
- DOS3 operating system – the same modern platform as the Astra, with better stability and performance.
- Upgraded streaming support – including Google Cast, Tidal Connect, AirPlay, Spotify Connect, Roon Ready, and more.
In other words, these aren’t just lifestyle speakers. They’re built for proper hi-fi performance.
Phantom Ultimate 108dB Specific Changes
The 108dB goes further under the hood:
- Newly engineered drivers – designed and manufactured in France by Devialet.
- Redesigned woofers – the dust cap is gone, creating a cleaner look and a more robust build.
- Slimmer profile – achieved through a completely reworked mechanical architecture.
- Enhanced SAM (Speaker Active Matching) – allowing for brand-new woofer design, tighter driver control, and bass that reaches deeper than ever before.
When we heard the 108dB in Paris, these changes weren’t just technical bullet points, they translated into real impact. The bass went lower, but it stayed tight and controlled, with the kind of refinement you wouldn’t always expect from a speaker capable of this much punch.
Devialet Phantom Ultimate: Connectivity & Streaming
One of the big strengths of the Phantom Ultimate is how simple it is to get connected, no matter how you prefer to listen. During setup in our studio, we found it quick and hassle-free, whether going wireless or wired.
Wireless Options
- Bluetooth 5.3 for fast, stable pairing
- Wi-Fi 6 for stronger connections and reduced dropouts
- AirPlay 2 for Apple users
- Google Cast for seamless Android integration
- Spotify Connect and Tidal Connect for direct high-quality streaming
- Roon Ready for the audiophiles
Wired Options
- Optical input if you want to connect a TV or CD player
- Ethernet for the most stable connection possible
Hi-Res Audio Support
Both the 98dB and 108dB can handle 32-bit/96kHz processing with playback support up to 24-bit/192kHz. That means these aren’t just “lifestyle” speakers, they’re fully capable of true high-resolution audio.
The New Devialet App
Another major upgrade for the Phantom Ultimate comes not from the hardware, but from the software. Devialet has completely rebuilt its companion app and it feels like the polished, premium control hub these speakers deserve.
From our testing, the app is faster, cleaner, and more intuitive than before. It doesn’t just feel like an accessory; it feels like a key part of the experience.
What’s New in the App
- Dedicated modes for music, movies, and podcasts and more
- A 6-band EQ for personalisation and fine-tuning
- Modern, intuitive interface that’s easy to navigate
- Direct integration with all the major streaming options
In practice, we found the app genuinely added to the experience, feeling like an extension of the Phantom Ultimate rather than just acting as a basic remote. It’s a subtle but important part of what makes this new generation feel more complete.
Devialet Phantom Ultimate: Early Sound Impressions
Of course, specs and design only tell half the story. What matters most is how the Phantom Ultimate actually sounds. From our early testing, both models delivered that trademark Devialet punch, but with more refinement than before.
Phantom Ultimate 98dB (Studio Test)
With the 98dB in our studio, it immediately reminded us of why the Phantom has such a reputation. The low-end hit hard, but there was a noticeable layer of extra finesse compared to the old model. Detail and control felt tighter, and it managed to stay clean even when pushed.
One setup we’re especially excited about? Running a stereo pair of 98dBs. For around £2,800, that’s a compact system with serious hi-fi credentials and a performance level that could rival many traditional setups.
Phantom Ultimate 108dB (Paris Demo)
Hearing the 108dB in Devialet’s soundproof demo room in Paris was an experience in itself. The bass was massive, extending well below 40Hz, but still incredibly controlled. High frequencies sparkled, and the soundstage felt impressively wide and immersive.
Phantom Ultimate 98dB vs 108dB: Which Should You Choose?
If you’re torn between the two models, here’s how they stack up:
| Phantom Ultimate 98 dB |
|---|
| • More compact and easier to place around the home • Frequency range of 18Hz – 25kHz, still covering more than most speakers in its class • Same new-gen amplification and streaming support as the 108dB • Best balance of size, performance, and price • Ideal for everyday listening or a stereo pair setup without breaking the bank |
| Phantom Ultimate 108 dB |
|---|
| • The go big or go home option • Frequency range of 14Hz – 35kHz, for deeper lows and improved treble • Better drivers and enhanced SAM technology for tighter control and more authority • Slightly slimmer profile thanks to redesigned internals • Perfect if you want maximum bass, scale, and headroom from a single speaker |
In short: The 98dB is the everyday powerhouse, while the 108dB takes things up a notch for those who want uncompromising scale and depth.
Devialet Phantom Ultimate: Our (Early) Verdict
From our first impressions, the Phantom Ultimate definitely feels like a step forward. The new drivers, refined design and form factor, upgraded technology, and refreshed platform with new streaming options all point firmly in the right direction.
But the big questions still need answering: how much of a difference do these upgrades make compared to the previous Phantom in real-world use? How do the 98dB and 108dB stack up against each other? And most importantly, are these the new pinnacle of wireless speakers, or even bookshelf speakers as a category?
We’ll be tackling those questions in our full review over on our YouTube channel very soon, so keep an eye out for the in-depth verdict. In the meantime, if you’d like to explore our full Devialet range or take a closer look at the Phantom Ultimate, you’ll find the links below.
Explore Phantom Ultimate at Smart Home Sounds
- Discover the full Devialet Phantom Ultimate range at Smart Home Sounds
- Need help choosing between the 98dB and 108dB? Our experts can guide you to the right model
- Want more inspiration? Explore our range of hi-fi for tailored selection of products you love!
- Don’t miss more hands-on impressions. Subscribe to our YouTube channel for reviews, buying guides, and first looks
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