2. amps-preamps
  3. 1172193443

The synergy of Ayre a.k.a. the

I read many great reviews of Ayre components individually (including their amps, pre-amps, integrated amp, phono stage, and CD / universal players) but don't see many complete Ayre systems listed here on the 'gon. I would think there would be advantage to a complete Ayre system that is more than just a sum of the components. Sure, it ends the journey abruptly, but for some, that may not be a bad thing. Who has bought the "whole widget", found it not to be to their liking, and decided to go back to "mix-n-match" (with success)?
128x128nrenter
tom_hankins
928 posts
 
I have heard the 5 series gear you list with the Quatros and VPI Scoutmaster/Dynavector cartridge and the sound is VERY GOOD. have also heard the CX-7e/AX-7e with speakers from Totem and Thiel. Both were also very nice.
After what Rufipennis said about the MX-rs driving the big Thiels I got to wondering, and went ahead and ordered the V-1XE amp to see how it compares to the Parasounds.
rufipennis
118 posts
 
Nrenter,
"AX-7e / CX-7e / P-5xe combo (along with Vandersteen 2ce Sig IIs)"

That's pretty much my system. I'm really happy with it (though the Sigs are still breaking in and I need to bi-wire). I'm thinking I'm almost done. I'd like to upgrade some of my cabling and, maybe, add the line conditioner, but I could live with this set-up for a long, long time. I suppose if I win the lottery I might look to upgrade (and I'd probably start my search further up the Ayre and Vandersteen lines).
proth
29 posts
 
While I obviously can't know what Mcrheist experienced or didn't, I can honestly say that I have never had customer service with any company that compares with Ayre, whether Charlie, Michael or Steve. Everyone at Ayre has always been more than generous with their time for me and my questions, even back when I only had a K-5x (pre "e" upgrade). Always satisfied.
tom_hankins
928 posts
 
My experience in dealing with Ayre has been the same as Proth. Nothing but good.
tom_hankins
928 posts
 
Well I have been spinning vinyl all morning using a pretty much all but source Ayre system.
VPI Super scoutmaster/Dynavector XX2 cartridge
Ayre P-5XE phonostage
Ayre K-1XE preamp
Ayre V-1XE amp
Thiel CS7.2 speakers
All Audioquest balanced Panthers and Mont Blanc speaker cables.
This system is the best I have heard it. So smooth. So detailed. Very easy on the ears. Huge, deep sound stage. Effortless is the best way I can describe it. I am going to sell the Parasounds and use the V-1xe until I can afford the MX-R amps from Ayre.
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