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Ayre KX-5/20 & VX-5/20 v AX-5 Twenty

Downsizing in preparation for a move to an apartment in a retirement community, and thinking about replacing my KX-5 and VX-5 Twenty separates with an AX-5 Twenty integrated.  I've never heard the AX-5 Twenty, but it gets excellent reviews.  Sources are Ayre QX-5 Twenty Roon endpoint and DX-5 DSD disc player; speakers are KEF Reference 1s supplemented below 50 Hz by a pair of Velodyne HGS-15s with bass management.  Can anyone compare the separates with the integrated, or provide advice?

db
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dbphd OP
1,628 posts
 
jafant,

I'm leaning toward keeping my KX-5 Twenty and VX-5 Twenty.  Sources will remain QX-5 Twenty for Roon and DX-5 DSD for discs.  I'm undecided about the Thorens TD 124 and Technics SL 1200.  I may keep them as icons rather than operational sources.  The Ayre P-5xe phono stage functions well, but the Audible Illusion M3A needs to be serviced.

db
gdnrbob
4,444 posts
 
I think you should keep your current equipment. There is nothing there that could be improved upon. In fact, I think you’d be doing yourself a disfavor by moving to integrated.
The only upgrade would be moving to the M/KXR Twenty’s and the new QB 9 Twenty. And, even that would be a subtle change.
IMHO
B
jafant's avatar
jafant
19,593 posts
 
dbphd

Right On!  Keep me posted if you want to sell your DX-5 DSD player.

Happy Listening!
jafant's avatar
jafant
19,593 posts
 
dbphd

Make no mistake, the AX-5/20 is a killer integrated amp at its price-point.
If power is a requirement, keep the separates. Yesterday, I took delivery of an AX-5. Last year, I spent several listening sessions w/ this integrated matched w/ my DX-5 spinner plus the QX-5 /20 for comparison.
I purchased the DX-5 last Spring and now own its partner in crime, AX-5.
Now it is time for the best part of our hobby- Cabling!

Happy Listening!
jafant's avatar
jafant
19,593 posts
 
dbphd
where are you in the decision making process?The AX-5 Twenty will give you 90% of the KX-5/VX-5 Twenty combination.The remaining 10% reflects power out put from a separate power amp.
Happy Listening!
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