Ayre AX-5 Integrated Amplifier

The Ayre will give you the best of tube and SS. Just read the positive comments above. If your speaker can get better it will. I've heard so many products this year as I'm redoing my system. I left the tube world for good and bought the Ayre AX7e and even though folks feel it's thin, It really isn't. Only in comparison with the 10k AX5e ;).... I like Rowland stuff too, don't get me wrong. I just think the Ayre gets it right. I have heard the 5 at Audio Connection as Jonny has them on a few different speakers. I heard them on the Vandy 5s. I admit I liked the Ayre separates much better, but it wasn't so much better than I couldn't be very very happy with the 5 and save a ton of money, cables and pieces of gear. Yes, this can run anything within reason and just sound right.

What does it mean have a "tube" sound or a "solid state" sound?

Hi Bob, AX-5 and Rowland Continuum S2 are both fine integrated amps. I heard them both at RMAF. Based on my listening experience, depending on your sonic goals, and your musical preferences, you are likely to develop a strong preference for one over the other.... What music do you enjoy most, and what sound parameters are you looking to optimize? What is the rest of your system?

Regards, Guido

Guido,

I currently have a killer all tube amp & preamp. I am always looking for ways to simplify my system while maintaining its sonic purity. I listen mostly to classical and jazz at moderate listening levels. My speakers are Intuitive Designs Summits and they come alive with quality power.

I wish I had the cake for the Ax-5 but I don't find it any better than the Hegel H200 except for build quality. Seriously.