Ayre KX-5/20 & VX-5/20 v AX-5 Twenty


Downsizing in preparation for a move to an apartment in a retirement community, and thinking about replacing my KX-5 and VX-5 Twenty separates with an AX-5 Twenty integrated.  I've never heard the AX-5 Twenty, but it gets excellent reviews.  Sources are Ayre QX-5 Twenty Roon endpoint and DX-5 DSD disc player; speakers are KEF Reference 1s supplemented below 50 Hz by a pair of Velodyne HGS-15s with bass management.  Can anyone compare the separates with the integrated, or provide advice?

db
dbphd

Showing 5 responses by gdnrbob

You've got some nice equipment.
Do you really have to move to integrated? I can't see how that much space will be saved by such a move.
Though I would consider some isolation bases for the subs (Like Townshend), so you don't p*ss off the neighbors.
Bob
@OP,
I would still think separates would be a better choice. When you think about cramming all that equipment into one case, there are bound to be trade-offs otherwise, why would they exist?
As for interconnects, I would get some Audioquest cables. They work well with Ayre.
When in doubt, call Ayre. They answer the phone.
(If I recall, try to connect with the Operator, as that will forward the call to Ryan. Otherwise, you will most likely have to leave a message).
Bob

Another person you should contact is John Rutan (Audioconnection).
PM him.
He sells Ayre, and probably knows KEF.
He can provide free, accurate advice, and do it without trying to sell you something.
I normally hesitate referring someone to a dealer, but Johnny is a rare bird.
And, if you look him up here on Audiogon, you’ll see he is a straight shooter.
Bob
I think you should keep your current equipment. There is nothing there that could be improved upon. In fact, I think you’d be doing yourself a disfavor by moving to integrated.
The only upgrade would be moving to the M/KXR Twenty’s and the new QB 9 Twenty. And, even that would be a subtle change.
IMHO
B
@dbphd .
I just recalled a video on  Ayre's youtube channel with John Atkinson regarding the difficulties in building an integrated amp.
I think it is this one:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TRGrvd_cTHI
In a nutshell, integrated amps rely upon a number of compromises in design.
And, if you don't want to contact Johnny, I suggest calling Ayre. Ryan usually answers the phone and would be the person with the best information you could possibly receive regarding Ayre products.
B