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Apollo R + Codex v. different CDP or Ayre QX

My current system is an Ayre AX-7e with Apollo R or MH 5 TT as source, with Sig 2 Ce’s.
 I mostly listen to CDs and look forward to more streaming via Tidal or Spotify Hi Rez(use both).
Ultimately I plan on following the Ayre/Vandy upgrade paths. 
Ive been thinking of adding a Codex and using the Apollo as transport to the Codex via Toslink, vs adding a different balanced CDP, vs waiting for Ayre to release more in the 8 series. 
As to other CDP’s I was thinking of a used ARC CD8($4,500- IDK on tube hrs), or Cary 306 SACD($2,750), both of which have BurrBrown DACs and balanced output l. 
A recent conversation with a dealer that’s expert in Ayre and Vandy, suggested I wait for the 8 series release, and hinted at an Ayre spinner release in the not distant future. 
Thoughts?
Thanks 
jetson
jetson OP
140 posts
 
Before I went to Verona I thought that I would be choosing between used Ayre separates and later upgrading the speakers or possibly an EX-8 and Quatro CTs. At this point I made one decision for sure.
I’m getting Quatro CTs this year.

With the Quatros I could this year also add a used QX or add a different DAC, plus get a new TT/cart for the cost of the EX. 

Next year I could sell the QX or other DAC at nearly what I paid, and get separates (Ayre or other) to replace the AX7. 

That way I’d have much improved SQ now, also upgrade my vinyl side, and then have another SQ improvement when I upgrade the amp from the AX-7.  

So, in the end I think I’m going with Quatros, Scout or Prime plus used DAC this year.  Amps next year. 

BTW The Apollo as transport into the EX-8 wasn’t disappointing. 

Lots to consider. 
Thanks again,
Jim



gdnrbob
4,449 posts
 
Whoo, that is a great move!

Do I dare move up to a EX-8? 
Heck, I still need to find a KX-R.
...Such are the trials of this 'hobby'
Bob

hgeifman
2,241 posts
 
@joey54, I also own the the Ayre AX-7e integrated with the Ayre Codex DAC and they sound great together as you stated above.   I looked at the Ayre EX-8 integrated and it looks nice.  You said its price is $6,950 including the built-in USB DAC.  I also need the Toslink cable input option that I believe increases its price but I do not know the cost for this. 

I use my Ayre AX-7 in my 2 channel home theatre system including the Wireworld Supernova 7 Glass Toslink cable from my LG OLED TV to my Ayre Codex DAC.  For my application, my current system sounds great and I do not see the need to upgrade.   Based on your experience with the Ayre EX-8, is an amplifier upgrade worth it in my application?   
joey54
434 posts
 
Thats a hard question to answer because I don't really know what your listening priorities are. For me, the upgrade will be worth it in my system. The difference between my current setup, which sounds good already, and the system using the EX-8 is significant enough to do the upgrade. My Harbeth's responded really well to to the increased bass, air, timing and resolution that the EX-8 offers.

I would suggest you hear it yourself to decide if it's worth it but I think you said it in your post, "I do not see the need to upgrade". I suggest if you are really happy with your sound now, stick with it and enjoy! 
tomic601's avatar
tomic601
12,935 posts
 
Quattro CT pretty amazing!!!!!!
johnny will set them up right for you

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