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Ayre introduces the AX-8 integrated amp

Ayre Acoustics introduces the brand new 8 Series Components. The 8 series will fit into their product range below the new 5 series, taking the place of the discontinued 9 and 7 series and the older 5 series products. The price range of the 8 series is planned to be between $2,500 - $8,000 US Retail.

The first two products which are showing in Munich are the AX-8 integrated amplifier (with digital inputs including streaming) and the QX-8 digital hub (also with streaming) and like all Ayre components, they will be hand-built in Boulder, CO.

https://wizard-highend.blogspot.com/2017/05/ayre-ax-8-qx-8.html?m=1

http://ciamara.com/new-ayre-8-series-components-coming-fall/

hgeifman

Showing 3 responses by nycjlee

nycjlee
286 posts
 
Maybe I'll grow into it but I agree the case work on the AX-8 looks pretty weak.  I love the way my AX5/20 looks.
nycjlee
286 posts
 
It's my understanding that the QX-8 is not using the same quality level components as the QX-5/20.  I suspect it will get priced somewhere between the Codex and QX-5/20.  I'm hoping $4-5k at the most.   
nycjlee
286 posts
 
The AX5 can be upgrade to AX5/20 for about $3K.  I have an AX5/20 driving a set of Vandersteen Treo CTs and this combination sounds awesome, phenominal soundstage, very natural and musical.  The details and instrument separation is exceptional.  Honestly, I haven't hear a ton of amps, but the AX5/20 is one of the best amps either integrated or separates that I've heard.  There are plenty of great sounding amps out there.  You know you got something special when the itch to upgrade goes away. :)    For now, I'm very happy and content. 
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