Ayre AX-7e to switch to Naim Supernait

Right now I do not have a CD player so I figured if I bought a Supernait I could use it's internal DAC with my DVD player until funds are available to upgrade to a better front end. I also like the fact that the Supernait can be used a pre or power and allows power supply upgrades. But I've been on the Naim merry go round before and when I start down the path I get obsessed with upgrading. I think I'll probably stick with the Ayre for now and possibly add a L-5xe in the future. Also need to try the Myrtle wood blocks. Thanks for all the advice.

I use to own an ayre ax7e. Great integrated amp. I switched to Nagra seperate pre and amp. I miss that ayre ax7e. Balanced sources bring out it's best. Charles Hansen the founder of ayre using one in his home system.

I have had a Ayre ax7 for week. I didn't like it at all and neither did my girlfriend. So IMHO any Naim amp would be an improvement. But I think the supernait is overpriced but if you want in integrated amp with a DAC ut might be for you. However I wouldn't buy any DAC wether or not it is part of an amp or not without a asychrone USB input. I believe USB is the future of digital audio.

I've also been researching the Pass INT-150 so maybe I'll eventually try that after I acquire a digital front end. Although I really like the sound of the AX-7e I do not like the ergonomics of the unit. I'm just used to a volume control I suppose and the labeling of the inputs I find annoying(Star, Moon, etc.)

I have owned a Supernait and an AX-7e. I found the Ayre to be fairly detailed, but uninvolving. The Naim is much more revealing of musical nuance and also more full bodied. It also reveals more instrument tone. To me, the Naim is a much better amp. Of course, it is more expensive, and should be.
I have also owned two Naim XS's, and while I did enjoy them very much, the Supernait is a better in every way. I would say the XS is closer to the Ayre, although the XS is also more "musical" than the AX-7e.