There’s a specific moment in every bathroom renovation that can feel utterly overwhelming: choosing the fixtures. For years, our guest bathroom was a functional but aesthetically disjointed space. The shower head, a basic chrome model from a decade ago, offered a weak, uninspired spray. The tub spout and handle were from a different era entirely, their finish slowly succumbing to wear and tear. The thought of sourcing a new shower head, a matching handle, a tub spout, and—most dauntingly—the correct in-wall valve felt like a complex puzzle with expensive, ill-fitting pieces. We wanted a cohesive, modern look without the headache of compatibility issues. More than that, we craved a shower experience that felt less like a chore and more like a retreat. This search for an all-in-one, high-performance, and stylish solution led us directly to the DELTA Arvo 14 Series Bathtub Shower Faucet Set with In2ition Dual Shower Head Matte Black.
- ROUGH INCLUDED: The Delta MultiChoice Universal Shower Valve (included) is compatible with most Delta shower trim kits, so you can switch out or upgrade your shower fixture without tearing out...
- HAND SHOWER AND SHOWER HEAD IN ONE: The In2ition 2-in-1 Dual Shower allows you to use the hand shower with hose separately or securely docked for a luxurious and versitile showering experience
What to Consider Before Buying a Bathtub & Shower System
A Bathtub & Shower System is more than just a collection of plumbing parts; it’s a key solution for creating a functional, safe, and beautiful bathing environment. It’s the central hub of your daily routine, impacting everything from your morning energy levels to your evening relaxation. The primary benefit of an integrated system like this is the guaranteed compatibility of all components. You get a shower head, handheld sprayer, control handle, tub spout, and the crucial rough-in valve, all designed to work together flawlessly, both mechanically and aesthetically. This eliminates the guesswork and potential for costly mistakes that can come from piecing a system together from different brands or product lines. A good system enhances water pressure, provides crucial safety features like anti-scald protection, and elevates the entire look of your bathroom.
The ideal customer for a complete kit is a homeowner undergoing a renovation, a builder aiming for quality and consistency, or anyone looking to significantly upgrade an existing, outdated setup. If you want a single purchase to solve all your shower and tub fixture needs, this is for you. It simplifies the process immensely. However, it might not be the right choice for someone who only needs to replace a single component, like a shower head. If your internal valve is in perfect condition and you’re just looking for a cosmetic refresh, a simpler “trim kit” without the valve might be a more cost-effective option. Likewise, those with highly customized plumbing or unique space constraints may need to source individual components instead of relying on a standardized kit.
Before investing, consider these crucial points in detail:
- Valve Compatibility & Inclusion: This is the most critical factor. The in-wall valve is the system’s engine. The DELTA Arvo kit includes the versatile MultiChoice Universal Valve, which is a huge plus. If you’re replacing an existing Delta 14 Series faucet, the job is much simpler. If you’re switching brands, you will likely need to replace the in-wall valve, which requires plumbing work. Always confirm compatibility before you buy.
- Functionality & Spray Options: Consider how you use your shower. Do you need a handheld sprayer for cleaning the tub, bathing children, or washing pets? The In2ition 2-in-1 head offers this versatility. Look at the number and type of spray settings—from a powerful massaging jet to a gentle, full-body spray—to ensure they meet your personal preferences.
- Materials & Durability: Fixtures come in a mix of materials. Handles and valves are typically brass for longevity, while some components like tub spouts or shower heads may use high-grade ABS plastic to prevent corrosion and keep costs down. A reputable brand like Delta backs their finishes with a lifetime warranty, which is a strong indicator of durability and resistance to tarnish and corrosion.
- Style & Finish: The finish sets the tone for your entire bathroom. Matte Black is a bold, modern choice that resists fingerprints and water spots well. Ensure the style—whether modern, traditional, or transitional—complements your tiles, vanity, and other decor. Look at user photos to see how the color appears in real-world lighting.
While the DELTA Arvo 14 Series Bathtub Shower Faucet Set with In2ition Dual Shower Head Matte Black is an excellent choice, it’s always wise to see how it stacks up against the competition. For a broader look at all the top models, we highly recommend checking out our complete, in-depth guide:
- ALL-METAL CONSTRUCTION: The entire shower faucet set is crafted from premium, durable metal materials, ensuring long-lasting performance. This all-metal build is highly resistant to rust, corrosion,...
- 【Pressure Balance Shower Valve】Constructed of solid brass materials, The Shower Fixtures with a rough-in valve will be no bursting or water leakage in extremely cold environments. Pressure...
- 3 Function Shower System: The tub shower faucet set has 3 water outlet modes, shower head, handheld sprayer, and tub spout.with 3 in 1 diverter cartridge to switch shower modes. single handle design...
First Impressions: Unboxing a Cohesive Vision
Opening the box for the DELTA Arvo 14 Series Bathtub Shower Faucet Set with In2ition Dual Shower Head Matte Black was a breath of fresh air. Instead of a jumble of mismatched parts, everything was neatly organized and securely packed. The first thing we noticed was the finish. The Matte Black is deep, uniform, and has a satisfyingly smooth texture that feels premium to the touch. It immediately gives off a modern, sophisticated vibe. The main handle has a solid, weighty feel, indicative of its brass construction. The escutcheon plate is clean and minimalist. The centerpiece, the In2ition 2-in-1 shower head, is substantial without being overly bulky. We could immediately appreciate the clever design, with the handheld portion nesting perfectly within the main head. It’s a design that promises both a full shower experience and the targeted convenience of a sprayer. Seeing the heavy-duty brass MultiChoice Universal Valve body included in the box was a major point of confidence, confirming this was a truly comprehensive package ready for installation.
What We Like
- Versatile In2ition 2-in-1 shower head design offers great flexibility.
- Complete kit includes the essential MultiChoice Universal Valve.
- Monitor Pressure-Balanced Valve provides excellent anti-scald protection.
- Stylish and durable Matte Black finish resists fingerprints and water spots.
- Backed by Delta’s Lifetime Limited Warranty for peace of mind.
What We Didn’t Like
- Out-of-the-box water pressure is low due to a restrictive flow regulator.
- Some components, like the tub spout, are made of ABS plastic rather than all-metal.
A Deep Dive into the Delta Arvo’s On-the-Wall Performance
A shower system can look great in the box, but its true value is revealed only after installation and daily use. We put the DELTA Arvo 14 Series Bathtub Shower Faucet Set with In2ition Dual Shower Head Matte Black through its paces, analyzing everything from the installation process to the daily shower experience. This is where the thoughtful engineering and design choices truly shine—and where we discovered a few key things every potential buyer should know.
Installation and the MultiChoice Universal Valve Advantage
For many, the thought of replacing shower plumbing is intimidating, but Delta has streamlined the process significantly with their MultiChoice Universal Valve system. Including this valve in the kit is arguably one of its biggest selling points. This means that for a new installation or a full remodel, your plumber has everything they need in one box. For our test installation, we were replacing an older, non-Delta fixture, which meant cutting into the wall to sweat the new valve into place—a standard job for any plumber. Where the MultiChoice system truly excels, however, is in future-proofing. Once this valve body is installed, you can upgrade your shower trim—the handle and shower head—to any other Delta 14, 17, or 17T series trim kit in the future without ever touching the plumbing behind the wall again. This is a massive long-term benefit.
We saw this sentiment echoed by many users. One reviewer specifically noted their relief in upgrading from an old Delta 14 series, stating, “I did my research and found out if I changed from a delta 14 series to another 14 series I would only need to change out the valve [cartridge].” This highlights the ease of upgrading within the Delta ecosystem. The instructions were clear, and all necessary mounting hardware was included. The single handle glides onto the valve stem smoothly, and the escutcheon plate seals against the tile with a foam gasket, creating a clean, water-tight finish. The tub spout screws onto a standard copper pipe stub-out. It’s a straightforward process for anyone with basic plumbing knowledge or a professional plumber, and the all-inclusive nature of the kit prevents last-minute trips to the hardware store.
The In2ition Shower Head: A Tale of Two Pressures
The In2ition 2-in-1 Dual Shower Head is the star of this system. Its design is brilliant: you get the broad coverage of a fixed shower head and the utility of a handheld sprayer, which can be used separately or simultaneously. The handheld component docks securely into the main head with a satisfying magnetic-assist click. We found this incredibly useful. Want to rinse down the shower walls after cleaning? Just pop out the hand shower. Need to bathe a dog without getting soaked yourself? It’s the perfect tool. The diverter lever on the side of the head is easy to operate, allowing you to switch between the main head, the handheld, or both at once.
However, upon our first use, we experienced what many users report: underwhelming water pressure. When running both heads simultaneously, the flow felt weak, almost like “drips of water,” as one user aptly described it. This is not a defect; it’s the result of a pre-installed water restrictor designed to meet WaterSense conservation standards (1.75 GPM). While admirable for water-saving, it can be frustrating if you have low home water pressure to begin with or simply prefer a more forceful spray. Here’s the crucial tip: the flow restrictor is easily removable. As another user discovered after watching a video, “When I put the shower head on the water pressure was super weak but after removing the restrictor it would knock you down.” We performed this simple, two-minute modification (unscrewing the head and pulling out a small plastic o-ring), and the difference was night and day. The full-body spray became enveloping and powerful, and the massaging jet was genuinely therapeutic. Once unleashed, the performance of this shower head is absolutely top-tier.
Design, Finish, and Material Choices
The Arvo collection strikes a beautiful balance between modern and traditional design. Its lines are clean and contemporary, but they have soft, transitional curves that prevent them from feeling too stark or industrial. This allows the DELTA Arvo 14 Series Bathtub Shower Faucet Set with In2ition Dual Shower Head Matte Black to fit into a wide variety of bathroom decors. The Matte Black finish is the standout feature here. We found it to be exceptionally good at hiding water spots and fingerprints, a common complaint with polished chrome or nickel finishes. It’s easy to wipe clean and maintains its deep, rich look. Delta states the finish is salt-fog tested to be three times more durable than the industry standard, and in our testing, it felt robust and resistant to scratching.
One of the few points of criticism we share with other users concerns the material of the tub spout. While the valve and handle are solid brass, the tub spout is made of a high-quality ABS plastic. A user noted, “I only have two complaints. 1. Tub spout is plastic.” While some may perceive this as a cost-cutting measure, there is a practical reason: metal tub spouts in matte black can be prone to chipping or scratching if hit, exposing the metal underneath. A molded-in-color plastic spout is impervious to rust and can be more resilient in this specific application. In use, it’s visually indistinguishable from the other components and delivers a fast, aggressive flow that fills the tub quickly. Ultimately, it’s a trade-off between the perceived heft of metal and the practical durability of modern polymers, and given Delta’s lifetime warranty, we weren’t overly concerned.
Daily Operation and Anti-Scald Safety
Living with the Delta Arvo system day-to-day is effortless. The single handle controls both water volume and temperature with a smooth, 120-degree rotation. The real hero of the daily experience, however, is the Monitor Pressure-Balanced Valve Cartridge. This technology provides crucial anti-scald protection by automatically adjusting the water mix if there’s a sudden pressure change elsewhere in the house—like when someone flushes a toilet or starts the dishwasher. We tested this by flushing a toilet mid-shower, and the temperature remained perfectly constant, with no dangerous surge of hot water. This is a non-negotiable safety feature, especially for families with children or elderly members.
Some users, like one who noted, “I think the scald safety is set waaaayyyy too safe,” found the maximum hot temperature to be too low. This is another feature, not a flaw. The valve comes with a rotational limit stop that can be easily adjusted during installation to allow for a higher maximum temperature, depending on your home’s water heater settings and personal preference. This adjustability ensures you can dial in the perfect combination of safety and comfort. The tub spout diverter is a simple pull-up knob that engages smoothly to redirect water to the shower head, completing a user-friendly and secure daily experience. The entire system is thoughtfully designed for both safety and simplicity.
What Other Users Are Saying
After our hands-on testing, we looked through user feedback to see how our experience compared, and the consensus was overwhelmingly positive, with a few recurring caveats. Many users praise the DELTA Arvo 14 Series Bathtub Shower Faucet Set with In2ition Dual Shower Head Matte Black for its aesthetic appeal and all-in-one convenience. One reviewer stated, “This kit is appropriately priced and includes everything you need without the hidden costs,” which perfectly captures the value proposition. The functionality of the handheld sprayer is a consistent highlight, with one user loving that “the option to have the removable head works wonders for cleaning the shower.”
The most common critique, as we also discovered, is the water pressure before removing the flow restrictor. A user who almost “threw this thing away” was thrilled after finding the solution, a testament to how transformative this small adjustment is. The other minor gripe is the use of some plastic components, though most agree that for the price and with the Delta warranty, it’s an acceptable compromise. A few isolated reports mentioned minor quality control issues, such as a scratched part on arrival or an off-center printing on the temperature plate, but these seem to be exceptions rather than the rule for a brand known for its quality.
How Does the Delta Arvo Compare to the Alternatives?
The DELTA Arvo 14 Series Bathtub Shower Faucet Set with In2ition Dual Shower Head Matte Black exists in a competitive market. To understand its place, we compared it against three notable alternatives, each catering to a slightly different user need or aesthetic preference.
1. gotonovo 10-Inch Matte Black Rainfall Shower System
- 【Material】: The Maximum Flow Rate of this shower faucet set is :1.46gpm. 5.5L/min.High-quality Stainless Steel SUS304 Rain Shower Head and Solid Brass Pressure Balancing Shower Mixer Valve...
- 【Function】:This rain shower system with adoption of innovative air injection technology, the large 10 inch raining shower head mixes water with air to increase the water pressure to 100%, and...
The gotonovo system is for the user who prioritizes a true spa-like rainfall experience above all else. Its main feature is a large, 10-inch overhead shower head that is separate from the handheld wand, delivering a wide, drenching spray. Unlike the Delta’s integrated In2ition head, these are two distinct pieces. While it offers a more immersive rainfall effect, it lacks the ability to run both the main head and the handheld simultaneously. The gotonovo is a strong contender for those building a modern walk-in shower where the expansive rain canopy is the primary goal, but the Delta Arvo offers more versatile functionality for a standard tub/shower combo.
2. SR SUN RISE Black Square Rainfall Shower Head and Handle Set
- Durable 304 Stainless Steel Construction: Crafted from premium 304 stainless steel, this Rain Shower Head and Handle Set is designed to resist rust and wear, ensuring long-lasting durability. It...
- Complete Shower System Included: This shower faucet set includes everything you need for a luxurious upgrade: a 10-inch rain shower head, a handheld shower head, a 71-inch shower hose, a 16-inch...
The SR SUN RISE set appeals to those with a preference for a sharp, geometric, and ultra-modern aesthetic. All components—from the shower head to the handle escutcheon—feature a distinct square shape. Like the gotonovo, it offers a separate rainfall head and handheld sprayer. Its air injection technology promises robust pressure even in low-pressure areas. If your bathroom design is built around hard lines and square fixtures, the SR SUN RISE will be a better stylistic match. However, the Delta Arvo’s softer, transitional design gives it broader appeal, and its In2ition head provides a more compact and integrated solution.
3. DELTA Windemere 14 Series Single-Function Valve Trim Kit
- ROUGH SOLD SEPARATELY: Shower trim kit only, purchase Delta's MultiChoice Universal Shower Valve separately to complete the unit (recommended rough-in valve model R10000-UNBX or R10000-UNBXHF)
- PROTECTION FROM SUDDEN TEMPERATURE CHANGES: The Monitor Pressure-Balanced Valve Cartridge (included) ensures a consistent shower temperature by balancing the pressure of both hot and cold water, so no...
The Delta Windemere serves as a more traditional and budget-friendly alternative within the Delta family. The most critical distinction is that this is a “trim kit only”—it does not include the essential MultiChoice rough-in valve, which must be purchased separately. It also features a standard, single-function shower head without an integrated handheld sprayer. This is an ideal choice for someone who already has a compatible Delta valve in their wall and is looking for a simple, cosmetic upgrade on a budget without needing the advanced functionality of the Arvo’s 2-in-1 system. The Arvo, by contrast, is the complete, feature-rich package for a full installation or major upgrade.
Our Final Verdict: Is the Delta Arvo the Right Choice for Your Bathroom?
After extensive testing and analysis, we can confidently say that the DELTA Arvo 14 Series Bathtub Shower Faucet Set with In2ition Dual Shower Head Matte Black is an outstanding choice for anyone seeking a complete, high-quality, and stylish solution for their tub and shower. Its greatest strengths lie in its brilliant combination of form and function. The In2ition 2-in-1 shower head offers unparalleled versatility, seamlessly shifting from a relaxing full-body spray to a practical handheld wand. The inclusion of the future-proof MultiChoice Universal Valve adds incredible long-term value, and the Monitor anti-scald technology provides essential peace of mind. While the out-of-the-box water pressure is a notable drawback, it’s a simple, five-minute fix that unlocks the system’s true, powerful potential.
We recommend this set wholeheartedly for homeowners undertaking a bathroom remodel, builders looking for a reliable and complete package, and anyone tired of a weak, outdated shower. It expertly blends modern aesthetics with the trusted engineering and lifetime warranty of the Delta brand. If you want to eliminate compatibility guesswork and invest in a fixture set that will elevate your daily routine for years to come, this is the one to get. You can check the current price and see more details on this excellent shower system here.
Last update on 2025-10-25 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API