Integrateds: Luxman vs. Ayre?

The best way is to have the chance listening, Both Ayre and McIntosh are special, some people love it and some people don't like it.

I have been looking for an integrated amp to replace my Musical Fidelity M6Si amp for a while.  I considered many amps including the T & A PA 2000 R.

The main issue was that I couldn’t hear any of these amps locally and was unwilling to buy anything without first listening in a local store. I wanted local support if needed. I even called T+A, but they confirmed there’s no retailer in the Bay Area.

i kept looking at the Ayre EX-8 2.0 integrated amp, on and off.  My audio friend recommended I visit my local store and hear it.  I gathered 10 albums and visited Music Lovers Audio.  I explained my situation and we started listening. 

Within minutes, I said to the salesperson, that the music was clearer, more open and had more details than my MF.  He agreed and so we listened to another 9 albums. I really liked the way it sounded. 

We repeated a few albums with the same result.  I asked several operational questions to ensure it would work in my space.  I asked about Ayre, the company, and was satisfied.   

I ordered the Ayre EX-8 2.0 integrated amp (base amp) and expect delivery in 4-6 weeks. Thanks again for your help. 

Read up on the Double Diamond circuitry, its the real deal

Yes, I have, and while I do like the sound it's also IMHO kind of unique. so much so that I feel it's an amplifier that I might really like but not sure you would. 

What a difference two years make!!  I still love the sound of my Luxman but am also going with fully active speakers in the near future.