Beyond Ayre Pass and Rowland

Ricred1,
At Axpona (Chicago) this spring I heard the Aavik driving Raidho speakers. I was with 2 friends and we felt that the sound of that room/system was decent but nothing particularly special (it wasn’t bad sounding to be clear). It wasn’t a prolonged listening session (like some other rooms we visited). So I am in no position to offer any meaningful impressions.

It could possibly be a terrific integrated class D amplifier under proper setup  conditions. It has a built-in DAC and Phono stage and 600 watts into 4 ohms. It could be very worthwhile to pursue and audition. Price wise it competes with integrated amps from Absolare, Vitus, ,Dartzeel and Ypsilon. Good luck to you.

Thanks Al as you know the feeling is mutual.
Charles,

Thanks. I'm not going to purchase, just trying to find out if it's worth listening to. Charles you and Al bring up very good points. 
Yes, I'm using all balanced cables. 

Richard,
If the opportunity arises to hear/audition  the Aavik I say go for it!
It'd be much fun to compare it to your Rowland fronted with a high quality tube preamplifier. 
Charles,  

Charles, 
If presented the opportunity,  without the need to purchase I will. I listen to my system yesterday for several hours and still really love it. No, it's not at the same level as the Absolare, but close enough considering the cost difference. I'm still going to try a tube preamp. I'm curious to hear if adding a tube preamp will provide a little sliver of the Absolare magic  

Hello Richard,
Tube preamp idea is a good move. You may or may not prefer it but it’s worth the effort to listen to one in your system. You have the right attitude. Keep in mine that amongst tube preamps each will sound different from oneanother. Here’s what I mean,  CJ, ARC,VAC or Atma-Sphere(all are well respected) for an example have their own distinct sound character. So many variables in High End audio= fun and discovery.
Charles,