Downgrade Suprise?

Has anyone downgraded according to price and Stereophile grade and been surprised or that it surpassed performance of the other?

I'll throw out my scenario considering a supposed "downgrade" from Revel M20 to Triangle Zerius 202; reasons are many but not a factor in my general question.

I always here about the traditional price/review class upgrade success stories but I thought the other direction success stories should be heard.

Cheers!