An Ayre QB-9 Twenty owner here. And, I concur with your opinion.
Even the Codex was a very capable DAC for the money.
Ayre seems to offer a great products at great price points.
Bob
Ayre Acoustics QX-5 Twenty Streaming DAC
Had the Ayre QX-8 Streaming DAC for some time and it was an outstanding DAC. I just recently upgraded to the Ayre QX-5 Twenty Streaming DAC. IMHO, the Ayre QX-5 Twenty Streaming DAC is one of the best DACs on the market today. Although not inexpensive, it's a big-time value compared to some of the more expensive megabuck DACs on the market today. An "AMAZING" piece of gear!!!!