Core updates code with new releases, nodes are not required to upgrade
Q: And the version of Core that is up-to-date and allows you to not signal in favor of segwit is where? 
A: Nowhere, because no such creature exists.
Q: And the version of Core that is up-to-date and allows you to signal in favor of a BIP that Core devs are not in favor of is where?
A: Nowhere, because no such creature exists.
You are free to run whatever client you wish or support a different chain. Nobody is forcing you to use Core. However, the best and most competent developers contribute and maintain code to the core client. You are free to open a Git and submit proposals if know of a beneficial feature that is not currently available.
If you do not support segwit, run versions prior to 0.13.1, that is if you run a node.
Being that this is the Antminer s9 thread, we should get back on topic:
After speaking with a Bitmain representative in regards to the issues with their 16nm products, I would highly recommend using a hosting service. Things as little as a power outage, lost internet connection, etc can cause asics to burn which may not even be detectable by a quick visual inspection. Obviously, a hosting company is not immune from these service interruptions but should be setup with fail-overs. All of my s9 & r4 repairs were burned asics. I never had one case of burned asic on prior Bitmain products (s1, s3, s5, s7)
