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Ayre vs Primare

I'm still looking for a new integrated amp. I currently have an Exposure 2010S2 driving Spendor A6's with a Sony 5400ES SACD player as my source. I have moved my system from a large living room downstairs to a smaller room upstairs so there is no longer a need for a high powered amp. My two candidates are the Ayre AX-7e and the Primare I30. Deep controlled bass and extended highs, while nice to have, are not as important to me as a natural, transparent musical presentation. Another reason these two amps are on my short list is because they have balanced inputs. Also, as a long shot I might add the NAD M3 to my list. I've searched the net, but can't find a direct comparison between the Ayre and the Primare.
allenjohns
lindisfarne
511 posts
 
I think you have a great integrated in the Exposure. The Naim is another fine choice. I would NOT change. You simply are looking because you are bored with the hobby and have the money to do something else. Just listen to music.
stringreen's avatar
stringreen
6,435 posts
 
Another vote for Ayre
peter_s
1,332 posts
 
Let us know what you end up with and your impressions. I think Ayre gear can't be faulted - sins of omission - sometimes a little light on the bottom, but always a pleasure to listen to.
6550c
393 posts
 
Imo Ayer is on a much higher plane than Primare.
The only time I have seen Primare was at Magnolia Hi-Fi and was not impressed. (Is it their house brand?). I think Primare in design in Sweden but manuf.in China or somewhere.I don't know if there is a Primare company, the stuff is just made in china with a name and a story and then marketed at a big box. The store workers have a memorized story they tell about how Primare is design by the famous audio guru Bo Christenson(someone)(could be Bo Diddle or Bo Jackson for all I know). I don't think the stuff is worth a second look imo. Anyone here know Bo?
onhwy61's avatar
onhwy61
5,186 posts
 
The Ayre might be somewhat better overall than your current Exposure, but it's not a significant difference, IMO. If I were you I'd stay with the Exposure.

6550c, why even bother posting anything if you don't know anything?
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