an example would be starting with say the rega apollo cd player, the brio integrated amplifier and the bowers and wilkins 606 speakers.
what exactly is to be expected when "upgrading" to the more expensive model by the same manufacturer ?
Actually I had a Rega Apollo CDP, Rega Brio amp (38wpc) and Rega RS5 speakers, and home demoed both the Rega Elex-r (72 wpc) and Rega Elicit-r (105 wpc) integrated amps.
Were they more of the same but better? - generally yes, but it is not as simple as that. I noticed a bigger jump in SQ between the Brio and Elex-r, than from the Elex-r to the Elicit-r.
Each time you notice the effects of the extra wattage, clearer (better control of the speakers), more defined bass and heavier bass, and music tends to 'rise' with more power/oomph behind it.
But the Elex-r had a narrower soundstage to the Brio, the Elicit brought back the wider soundstage but was much brighter (to my ears in any case).
I would have been happy with the Elex-r if my budget was tighter, but I would have had to listen again to the Elicit-r.
I wanted to hear a Creek 100a but never got the chance. The Exposure 3010SD2 by comparison just sounded 'right' - more in balance and suited my ears (and speakers).