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Sound is one of the most powerful forces in our lives. It can evoke memories, shift moods, and even change the way we experience the world around us. Yet, for all its influence, the way we interact with sound heavily relies on the confinements of technology. Enter Devialet, a brand that has made it its mission to break these barriers. Combining visionary engineering with a deep understanding of emotion, Devialet has redefined what is possible in the world of audio. With a product lineup that stretches from the innovative Phantom speaker to advancements in artificial intelligence, the French company’s work has always been about creating an entire visceral experience that moves the listener in ways that resonate long after the music ends.
In the world of audio technology, few brands command the same level of awe and admiration as Devialet. With its relentless pursuit of perfection, the French audio company has redefined the limits of sound, combining cutting-edge engineering with an emotional touch that transcends mere technicality. Under the leadership of CEO Jacques Demont and Chief Design Officer Emmanuel Nardin, Devialet continues to set the standard for luxury audio experiences. Their strategic vision, coupled with a unique aesthetic approach, has positioned the brand at the forefront of the global audio industry.
For Jacques Demont, who brings a wealth of experience from his leadership roles at Nespresso, Tissot, Tesla, and Taïga Motors, Devialet is more than just an audio brand—it’s a symbol of transcendent design and relentless innovation. From scaling Nespresso into a global giant to steering Tesla’s successful entry into the French market, Demont’s career has been defined by his ability to drive brands beyond their industries and into the hearts of consumers.
At Devialet, he continues this legacy by ensuring that the brand not only thrives in the competitive audio space but continues to create emotional connections with its audience. “Tesla and Taïga exemplify the power of relentless innovation,” Demont explains. “At Devialet, this same pioneering spirit drives our commitment to R&D, enabling us to create breakthrough technologies that redefine the listening experience.”
Devialet’s commitment to revolutionizing the audio experience is evident in its flagship product, the Phantom speaker. But as Demont emphasises, the brand’s success isn’t just about technical prowess. It’s about creating a sensory experience that goes beyond sound. “Devialet is one of those rare brands, singular in everything it represents: boldness, technological excellence, and, above all, the ability to create an emotional connection with everyone who discovers it.”
Emmanuel Nardin, Co-founder and Chief Design Officer, believes that every product should be an embodiment of both form and function. With a career spanning thirty years, Nardin’s design philosophy is rooted in a minimalist approach that seeks perfection in simplicity.
“Crafting a pure, streamlined design is far more complex than it seems,” Nardin explains. “The challenge lies in simplifying an object while preserving its strength and uniqueness. It’s about striking a delicate balance—avoiding an excess of detail that overwhelms, yet steering clear of austerity that feels cold or impersonal.”
This philosophy was fully realised with the creation of the Phantom speaker—a design icon that redefined the notion of a home speaker. Breaking away from traditional designs, the Phantom features an oblong shape that integrates seamlessly into its acoustic architecture. The result is a product that not only delivers exceptional sound but also serves as a testament to Devialet’s commitment to precision and artistry.
In a rapidly evolving audio landscape, Devialet remains at the cutting edge of innovation. As the industry embraces artificial intelligence and immersive sound technologies, Devialet is integrating these trends into its product development strategy. The brand’s R&D strategy revolves around three core pillars: excellence in customer experience, pushing the boundaries of sound through research, and showcasing its savoir-faire on a global scale.
“Our goal is to further leverage artificial intelligence to take the listening experience to new heights,” Demont says. “This ambition is reflected in the new version of our operating system, Devialet DOS3, designed to integrate all our products—current and future—within a single ecosystem.”
The use of AI in Devialet’s products allows the company to customize the listening experience in real time, adapting to the unique acoustic environment and preferences of the user. This represents a future where sound is not just a passive experience but an active participant in the listener’s world.
In the Middle East, where the appreciation for craftsmanship and high-performance technology is deeply rooted, Devialet is tapping into a market that values both innovation and emotional engagement. The UAE, in particular, has become a strategic market for the brand, offering the perfect backdrop for Devialet’s commitment to delivering exceptional audio experiences.
Devialet’s partnerships with cultural institutions, such as the Opéra de Paris, exemplify how the brand fuses artistic expression with technology. This collaboration led to the creation of an exclusive edition of the Phantom I, featuring 22-carat gold leaf applied by hand by the master gilders of Ateliers Gohard. This exquisite craftsmanship speaks to the brand’s dedication to quality and artistry—values that resonate strongly in the Middle East’s luxury market.
In 2023, Devialet made its bold entry into the Dubai Mall with a flagship store that serves as a beacon of the brand’s commitment to its regional expansion. As Demont puts it, “The UAE is a strategic market for Devialet, where luxury brands hold a strong status, offering recognition and aspiration that resonates with our DNA.”
As Devialet looks to the future, the brand is poised to redefine what it means to experience sound. With upcoming projects like Fendi | Devialet Mania and the launch of the Devialet Astra integrated amplifier, 2024 promises to be another year of groundbreaking innovations. The brand’s strategic focus on pushing the boundaries of acoustic engineering and immersing its customers in unparalleled sensory experiences ensures that Devialet will remain a force to be reckoned with in the luxury audio space.
“Our ambition is to go beyond meeting the expectations of a new generation of consumers,” Demont concludes. “We aim to create the perfect intersection between our products, our technologies, and their aspirations. Through our bold approach, we will continue to set the pace for evolution.”
Devialet’s journey is far from over. With its relentless commitment to innovation, emotion-driven design, and global expansion, the brand is poised to continue reshaping the world of sound and luxury for years to come.
