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Ayre C-5xe vs Ayre C-7xe??

I sold my beloved, magnificent Meridian G08 CD player. I am looking to replace it with either the Ayre C-5xe or the C-7xe. I have not heard either but both seem to have great reviews and Ayre seems to be a great company. That said, is it worth the difference in price for the 5-xe vs the 7-xe on redbook CD? I listen to a lot of jazz and some new age. I don't know if there is a big selection of high quality SACD or DVD-A's to justify the extra dough for the 5-xe. However, I still might spring for it if it is superior to the 7xe on redbook CD.

I am seeking the input and advice from those who may have listened to both players. Thanks in advance.
jaymark

Showing 2 responses by relentless

relentless
36 posts
 
I have had the G08 in my system for 3 years. My system has grown around it. I have a C5xeMP for audition. I went in to this change thinking the Ayre was going to be better in every way but my early impressions on the differences are.
The Ayre is better in midrange, it makes the Meridian sound digital and kind of pinched as where I never felt that about the G08 until hearing the C5. The highs sound less filtered on the Ayre but the bass has more body with the Meridian. These are my early impressions and there is no clear winner in my setup until I listen a bit more to the Ayre.
relentless
36 posts
 
After more extensive listening I think the difference in bass was that the Ayre was tighter and had a quicker decay. As you stated, closer to neutral. I found I could play the Ayre louder to get the bass at the same perceived level and the mid range was still natural.
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