Amp upgrade from Ayre V-5xe

Thyname,

 I found myself in a similar position to you several years ago. I had the Ayre V-5XE amp and and K-5XEmp preamp and thought that although the overall sound was excellent they were on the lean side. My speakers alternate between Analysis Audio Epsilon’s (planar magnetic) and German Physiks HRS-120’s (omni).  I was looking for more warmth from my system also.

 I listened to the AX-5(not Twenty) in show conditions and thought it was more lean that the V-5XE but that might be attributable to low operating hours.  I thought both the MX-R and VX-R were very nice but outside my budget bogey unless I were able to find them used. After several audio shows and auditions I transitioned to a Pass XA-100.5 amp and VAC Signature Mk IIa preamp. I felt that the Class A amps in general provided more warmth when I heard them in several different system combinations at shows.  I also felt the addition of tubes in the preamp helped the character of my system.  Other amps I considered were the Plinius 103 and Aesthetix Atlas. I thought both of these were excellent candidates.

I found that attending an audio show gave me exposure to different amp/preamp combinations in a variety of systems although it’s certainly not the same as auditioning a component in your own system. Personally I always like to try and find a way to audition any new component in my own system. Needless to say other factors which bear on your decision would be the size of your room, type music and listening level.  

 I can’t say enough about the help I received from Ayre, Pass and VAC they were all great to speak with and patient in answering any questions I had. Also Mark at Reno Hi-Fi was very helpful.

Also I should add that my Ayre hardware has not left the house.

Needless to say YMMV. Good luck in reaching a decision.

Carlco