Ayre Acoustics QX-5 Twenty Streaming DAC

@kennymacc, The Ayre Acoustics QX-5 Twenty Streaming DAC looks interesting.  What other more expensive DAC’s did you compare it to? How does its sound quality compare to these other more DAC’s?  I am considering the Ayre QX-5 Twenty DAC and would appreciate any other info you have regarding this DAC.  Thanks.  

An Ayre QB-9 Twenty owner here. And, I concur with your opinion.

Even the Codex was a very capable DAC for the money.

Ayre seems to offer a great products at great price points.

Bob

A DAC is truly a very personal item when it comes to high end audio and how it synergizes with the rest of your system.  I compared the Ayre QX-5 Twenty Streaming DAC to DCS, Cord Dave/Hugo, Weiss, MSB, Hegel's top DAC and others.  All were outstanding sounding DACs in their own way, but it was to Ayre that ultimately captured my heart.  Also, the Ayre was a great value compared to some of the other much higher priced options.  I purchased my QX-5 Twenty pre-owned which makes this word class, reference DAC an even greater value!!!       

For those owners of the Ayre QX-5/20,  look into the USB-2 upgrade if USB is your favored connection.

I had my DAC updated recently while my system was down due to moving to a new home.

Its a significant upgrade to an already outstanding product IMHO.

There is a detailed review on audiophilestyle if interested.

@emtrey, Thanks. Any comments on the sound quality of your Ayre QX-5 Twenty DAC? How does it compare to other DAC’s you auditioned? Thanks.