I have owned the Ayre Ax-7e and for $2K used it is everything and more that you could want, a highly resolved and natural sound...great soundstage and depth. A really nice amp, but for me the lack of tubes also meant a lack of inner resolution, note decay,...those little aspects that make your sound seem real (IMHO)
That being said, if you really want tubes in the chain;..I'd look into the Bat (300x?); tube pre & solid state.
The Prima Luna gets good press & will easily sell, if it didn't suite your taste. The VTL may not have the gas, based on what I've read on them, but I've never heard it.
That being said, if you really want tubes in the chain;..I'd look into the Bat (300x?); tube pre & solid state.
The Prima Luna gets good press & will easily sell, if it didn't suite your taste. The VTL may not have the gas, based on what I've read on them, but I've never heard it.