Recently, at my local high end audio shop, I got a chance to have an extensive audition of both the Ayre QX-5 Twenty and the DCS Bartok DACs, in the same room, and in then same great, ultra high end system. This audio shop is an authorized dealer for both brands. And, I must tell you, as great as the Bartok was, the QX-5 Twenty was right there. Overall, to my ears, the Bartok may have been just a smidge better, maybe. But, for my money, it was a no brainer, I end up purchasing the Ayre QX-5 Twenty and I'm as happy as a clam. There are many outstanding DACs on the market today, in various price ranges. The mission is to find the one that you love best.
