What Does Ayre Sound Like?

Whatever was said in the deleted post I second it. It’s much more informative asking for and receiving current opinions rather than relying only on old posts.

maybe true, or it could be just lazy and entitled...

if i am truly interested in a piece of gear that would be a big move and/pr require substantial expense, i would search *everything* that has been written about it... and i wouldn’t throw a hate-filled temper tantrum when an experienced member tells me that there is plenty existing commentary, already posted, that might be useful to the query

The question really comes down to this: does Ayre have a house sound?  Has it changed over time?  How different does the EX-8 sound from, say, an AX-7.  

Ayre is the only solid-state amplification manufacturer that has always pleased these tube-loving ears.  The house sound has a warmth or a wetness that I really dig.

I have an all Ayre system......the sound is best when using the balanced configuration.  My preamp has 2 outputs....I use a dedicated headphone amp from one of those outputs.....the sound is better when not simultaneously connected.  Unplug the one not used.

Ayre is neutral to the slightly warm side of neutral.  Easy to live with.  Does most things well.  Had the K-5xeMP pre and VX-5 twenty amp, and still using their Codex DAC and phono preamp.  Very reliable equipment and great customer service.  Well respected among audiophiles.