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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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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!
unsound
7,329 posts
 
Keep in mind that as is often the case with intergrateds, the AX-5 Twenty is not particularly well suited with sub 4 Ohm loads.

https://www.stereophile.com/content/ayre-acoustics-ax-5-integrated-amplifier-measurements

jafant's avatar
jafant
19,593 posts
 
dbphd

Have you upgraded fuse(s) in any of your AYRE gear?
If so, which brand/model?

Happy Listening!
gdnrbob
4,444 posts
 
@dbphd .
I just recalled a video on  Ayre's youtube channel with John Atkinson regarding the difficulties in building an integrated amp.
I think it is this one:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TRGrvd_cTHI
In a nutshell, integrated amps rely upon a number of compromises in design.
And, if you don't want to contact Johnny, I suggest calling Ayre. Ryan usually answers the phone and would be the person with the best information you could possibly receive regarding Ayre products.
B
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