My Ayre AX-7e Integrated amp vs. an upgrade to the Ayre EX-8 Integrated amplifier


I am considering replacing my 15+ year old Ayre AX-7e amp with the Ayre EX-8 amp. Based on my research, so far, the EX-8 looks very interesting but I am VERY concerned about how HOT it gets. How hot is the Ayre EX-8 amplifier after being on for several hours? I plan on placing the amplifier inside my Salamander Designs Wooden Cabinet (front door closed, back and sides are open) My Ayre AX-7e amp gets warm but is never a problem.

Another owner reports "his EX-8 is noticeably hotter than the AX-7e”. I am very concerned since the unit will be located in my Salamander Designs Wooden Cabinet. And, since he reports, "his EX-8 is as hot as his BAT tube amp", I now have a major concern with the EX-8.

This is a 2-channel home theater system only. My LG OLED TV connects (DH Labs Glass Master Toslink Cable) to my Bricasti M3 DAC to my Aye AX-7e amp to my QUAD 12L2 Classic Signature Bookshelf Speakers. I have another main audio system for CD’s, streaming, etc. In May 2019, Ayre Acoustics ’tested’ my AX-7e amp a number of times with every parameter of its performance and specs. It worked and sounded fine. They did adjust the bias and zeroed out the DC.

I am open to other integrated amplifier suggestions with a budget of $5,000 to $6,000. I prefer a balanced amplifier (XLR inputs). I demoed the Parasound HINT 6 Integrated amplifier, in my home system, and the Ayre AX-7e sounded MUCH, MUCH better. The only reason I am looking is because my Ayre AX-7e is 15+ years old and I am concerned about its age. Should I be concerned (maybe not)? AND, maybe, a newer amplifier might sound better (?).

COVID-19 has closed the audio stores in the Bay Area so visiting them is not possible. I also emailed Ayre Customer Service and asked them about how hot the EX-8 gets and if it would be okay inside the Salamander cabinet. Thanks.

hgeifman
Based on the literature, the Ax-7 is 70W at idle, vs. 60W for the Ex-8, so it should be the other way around.
Ayre still answers the phone. I just talked to Gary two days ago.
My Ayre Codex get pretty hot (and it is on 24/7) and I haven’t had issues with it in my cabinet.- It has 2-3 inches of clearance on all sides plus it is secured in a wooden cradle.
Bob
I owned an AX-7e for nearly 15 years. I wouldn’t be concerned about its age, should be good for years to come. I moved up to an AX-5 Twenty. I briefly heard an EX-8 about a year ago. It sounded great although I can’t compare to the AX-7 given the differences in room, speakers and source. 
Not sure about the heat issue but Ayre should be able to help you decide if your cabinet might result in overheating.