I currently have an Ayre AX-7e and a Codex and they do sound great together, but the EX-8 is better.Please say more. In what way(s) is the EX-8 better?
Apollo R + Codex v. different CDP or Ayre QX
My current system is an Ayre AX-7e with Apollo R or MH 5 TT as source, with Sig 2 Ce’s.
I mostly listen to CDs and look forward to more streaming via Tidal or Spotify Hi Rez(use both).
Ultimately I plan on following the Ayre/Vandy upgrade paths.
Ive been thinking of adding a Codex and using the Apollo as transport to the Codex via Toslink, vs adding a different balanced CDP, vs waiting for Ayre to release more in the 8 series.
As to other CDP’s I was thinking of a used ARC CD8($4,500- IDK on tube hrs), or Cary 306 SACD($2,750), both of which have BurrBrown DACs and balanced output l.
A recent conversation with a dealer that’s expert in Ayre and Vandy, suggested I wait for the 8 series release, and hinted at an Ayre spinner release in the not distant future.
Thoughts?
Thanks
I mostly listen to CDs and look forward to more streaming via Tidal or Spotify Hi Rez(use both).
Ultimately I plan on following the Ayre/Vandy upgrade paths.
Ive been thinking of adding a Codex and using the Apollo as transport to the Codex via Toslink, vs adding a different balanced CDP, vs waiting for Ayre to release more in the 8 series.
As to other CDP’s I was thinking of a used ARC CD8($4,500- IDK on tube hrs), or Cary 306 SACD($2,750), both of which have BurrBrown DACs and balanced output l.
A recent conversation with a dealer that’s expert in Ayre and Vandy, suggested I wait for the 8 series release, and hinted at an Ayre spinner release in the not distant future.
Thoughts?
Thanks
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Sure thing! I must have missed the Supernova suggestion. Sorry. The Lifatec has more strands, but nowhere does either mention strand, or total cable diameter. Still, at approximately half the cost, I’ll try the Lifatec first. @tomic601 If you have the Supernova, and do an A/B comparison, I’d love to hear your thoughts on the two. |
@tomic601 Can you suggest a glass Toslink cable? I see them online from cheap to rediculous prices. The one I found so far that looks good and is still reasonably priced is Lifatec http://www.lifatec.com |
Thats a hard question to answer because I don't really know what your listening priorities are. For me, the upgrade will be worth it in my system. The difference between my current setup, which sounds good already, and the system using the EX-8 is significant enough to do the upgrade. My Harbeth's responded really well to to the increased bass, air, timing and resolution that the EX-8 offers. I would suggest you hear it yourself to decide if it's worth it but I think you said it in your post, "I do not see the need to upgrade". I suggest if you are really happy with your sound now, stick with it and enjoy! |
@joey54, I also own the the Ayre AX-7e integrated with the Ayre Codex DAC and they sound great together as you stated above. I looked at the Ayre EX-8 integrated and it looks nice. You said its price is $6,950 including the built-in USB DAC. I also need the Toslink cable input option that I believe increases its price but I do not know the cost for this. I use my Ayre AX-7 in my 2 channel home theatre system including the Wireworld Supernova 7 Glass Toslink cable from my LG OLED TV to my Ayre Codex DAC. For my application, my current system sounds great and I do not see the need to upgrade. Based on your experience with the Ayre EX-8, is an amplifier upgrade worth it in my application? |
Before I went to Verona I thought that I would be choosing between used Ayre separates and later upgrading the speakers or possibly an EX-8 and Quatro CTs. At this point I made one decision for sure. I’m getting Quatro CTs this year. With the Quatros I could this year also add a used QX or add a different DAC, plus get a new TT/cart for the cost of the EX. Next year I could sell the QX or other DAC at nearly what I paid, and get separates (Ayre or other) to replace the AX7. That way I’d have much improved SQ now, also upgrade my vinyl side, and then have another SQ improvement when I upgrade the amp from the AX-7. So, in the end I think I’m going with Quatros, Scout or Prime plus used DAC this year. Amps next year. BTW The Apollo as transport into the EX-8 wasn’t disappointing. Lots to consider. Thanks again, Jim |
Thanks Joey, That may be the ticket. I was looking at a Kx5e MP, and am waiting on a call back from Michael at Ayre to discuss upgrading that to Twenty version. Course, then I still need to get a used to Vx-5 Twenty amp and a QX hub. I figured all in I would be looking at about $15k without interconnects - but I’d never have to address my system again except for upgrading speakers. I’ll talk to John about the 8 vs. 5 system. |
On the new EX-8 Integrated amp, they are now shipping and on display at the Audio Connection in Verona, NJ. I have just tested it in my system and it beats my current setup handily. I currently have an Ayre AX-7e and a Codex and they do sound great together, but the EX-8 is better. You should touch base with JohnnyR to discuss. Good Luck! oh, the EX-8 costs $6950 with the built-in USB DAC. |
can you borrow a codex from Ayre dealer ? i suggest a glass fiber ( not plastic ) Toslink cable you might also consider an ARC dac also dont sell short an Aesthetix CD player, it has the built in Pandora dac and can be upgraded to signature then Apollo levels which I can assure you are staggering...... |
Codex would be a great move, in my opinion, especially if you are thinking of moving to steaming music. I run the Codex with a Bluesound Node and stream Tidal and Spotify. ( I also have the Ayre AX-7e and a pair of Zu Omen Bookshelves. The Vandy Treo's are downstairs). Once I bought the Codex and started streaming, I haven't cracked open a jewel box in 2 years. The Bluesound allows me to have music in my office and Living room synced. It works like a charm and the Codex(s) really improve upon the internal Bluesound DAC. Bob |