I've had the Ayre VX-5 and Dart CTH-8550 in my room and the 8550 was simply a better amp as it was more organic/3D. The Ayre had wonderful flow like the Dart and a very natural top end. But it just seemed like 2D images in a 3D landscape if that makes sense.
Now, the 20 series update to the VX-5 may turn the tables...
Now, the 20 series update to the VX-5 may turn the tables...