Ayre introduces the AX-8 integrated amp

Maybe listen with your ears instead of specs (which actually is 100 W)?

Ears first!

Any which way, I'd prefer a "straight" integrated without any of the DAC stuff on board.   With the AX5 twenty now costing 13K, surely there's room for a scaled down 7.5K model.

I think I read somewhere that there will be more than the two products in the 8-series. I was surprised when I first read about the EX-8 as Charles Hansen had previously shared his reasons for not wanting a DAC in the same box with an integrated (audioasylum?). I suspect there will be some option without the onboard DAC.

Please see copy of email from Ayre:

The Ayre 8 series

I know that the next question on everyone's mind is; "What is up with the 8 series!"

We are working hard to finalize the EX-8 (Digital integrated amp) and plan to begin shipping it the first week of February. Like the QX-5 it will have optional modules which can be added to expand the types of digital inputs available.

The QX-8 will be next, shipping in May, followed by the KX-8 and VX-8 which we will have as prototypes at the Munich show in May.

By the time we are finished with the 8 series in the fall, there will be 6 - 7 products in the line.

QX-5 Twenty Options

You can now customize your QX-5 Twenty!

S/PDIF (only) $6,950
USB               $7,650
Net                 $8,250
Full                 $8,950

+ Black Chassis $ 250

(Pricing is US Retail)