2. amps-preamps
  3. 156064-388

My Ayre AX-7e Integrated amp vs. an upgrade to the Ayre EX-8 Integrated amplifier

I am considering replacing my 15+ year old Ayre AX-7e amp with the Ayre EX-8 amp. Based on my research, so far, the EX-8 looks very interesting but I am VERY concerned about how HOT it gets. How hot is the Ayre EX-8 amplifier after being on for several hours? I plan on placing the amplifier inside my Salamander Designs Wooden Cabinet (front door closed, back and sides are open) My Ayre AX-7e amp gets warm but is never a problem.

Another owner reports "his EX-8 is noticeably hotter than the AX-7e”. I am very concerned since the unit will be located in my Salamander Designs Wooden Cabinet. And, since he reports, "his EX-8 is as hot as his BAT tube amp", I now have a major concern with the EX-8.

This is a 2-channel home theater system only. My LG OLED TV connects (DH Labs Glass Master Toslink Cable) to my Bricasti M3 DAC to my Aye AX-7e amp to my QUAD 12L2 Classic Signature Bookshelf Speakers. I have another main audio system for CD’s, streaming, etc. In May 2019, Ayre Acoustics ’tested’ my AX-7e amp a number of times with every parameter of its performance and specs. It worked and sounded fine. They did adjust the bias and zeroed out the DC.

I am open to other integrated amplifier suggestions with a budget of $5,000 to $6,000. I prefer a balanced amplifier (XLR inputs). I demoed the Parasound HINT 6 Integrated amplifier, in my home system, and the Ayre AX-7e sounded MUCH, MUCH better. The only reason I am looking is because my Ayre AX-7e is 15+ years old and I am concerned about its age. Should I be concerned (maybe not)? AND, maybe, a newer amplifier might sound better (?).

COVID-19 has closed the audio stores in the Bay Area so visiting them is not possible. I also emailed Ayre Customer Service and asked them about how hot the EX-8 gets and if it would be okay inside the Salamander cabinet. Thanks.

hgeifman

Showing 2 responses by beetlemania

beetlemania
834 posts
 
I owned an AX-7e for nearly 15 years. I wouldn’t be concerned about its age, should be good for years to come. I moved up to an AX-5 Twenty. I briefly heard an EX-8 about a year ago. It sounded great although I can’t compare to the AX-7 given the differences in room, speakers and source. 
Not sure about the heat issue but Ayre should be able to help you decide if your cabinet might result in overheating.
beetlemania
834 posts
 
Can anyone give me a hint how EX-8 sounds like compared to AX-7e? I have read it sounds different...
I happily owned an AX-7e for about 12 years until I moved up to an AX-5 Twenty. I briefly heard an EX-8. maybe two songs. I thought it sounded excellent but unable to directly compare to the AX-7 because of the different speakers and room. The review at Darko audio briefly speaks to EX-8 and AX-7 comparison.
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