How make my Ayre system "warmer"?

I'd say no to the C-7xe, as you'll just be getting more of what you want to get away from, as I've had (heard) it in 3 different systems. Also owned the V-5x, V-1xe & the V-3. I would say move to a tube pre-amp or tube CDP, such as BAT or something like the Cayin CDT-17A CDP.

Changing your outlets to gold plated units will help, along w/similar PC's.

V-5xe is a great amp & I would definitely hold onto it. Don't know anything about your spkrs, so no comment there.

As an owner of the K1x and former owner of the V5Xe, I would say that combination can be to much of a good thing even with warm speakers such as Maggies. I personally found the K1x to be the best darn piece of gear I've ever bought. I never thought that much of the V5Xe. I got the sound you are describing with it. I ultimately chose to use the Parasound JC-1 mono amps with the K1x. This combo is detailed and lively but not to much so.

I'm no expert but it seems like all your electronics and speakers are all thought to be not thought of as warm sounding. So maybe you should try something else that is thought to be more of what you are looking for.

If you are thinking of an upgrade to the K1x I'd say go for it, it's a great piece of gear and even if it doesn't get you the warmer sound you are looking for I think you'd love it. It will be a solid building block for whatever your system evolves to in the future. I'd never get rid of mine unless I was getting the KXR.

so far, a definition of warmth has not been offered. the concept of warmth has been discussed in other threads, but since it is relevant to this thread, i will provide my definition. essentially, warmth is the result of a dip in the upper mid/lower treble region, accompanied by a slight peak in the upper bass/lower mid range region.

as has been indicated, warmth is an inaccurate frequency response which emphasiszes the lower frequencies.

i doubt many solid state amps and preamps will exhibit the aforementioned frequency response. there is a better chance of attaining such a frequency response using tube components. however, it will not be easy to find using tube gear in current production, with the exception of some set amps. warmth is often associated with tube amps and preamps in rpoduction prior to 1990, or perhaps prior to 1980.

MrT, I agree with your definition of warmth, it's an inaccurate frequency response, as you describe. I find that many people say they want "warmth" but really mean that they want freedom from "edge" and "glare" and "shout." Generally you work those things out with a combination of speaker placement and quality source components. When you elect accuracy, then you must seek sources that don't added inaccurate high frequency components, like edge and glare.

Dave