Opinions on best integrated under 10k?

Jafant
That DX5 is one heck of a sweet player, congratulations.
The EX8 is making me VERY happy indeed, it will take something very special indeed to remove this from my system and probably includes a win on the lottery!
The old CEC belt drive CD player I acquired has leased much new life into my CD collection played through my system now.
Still prefer my vinyl but CD has never sounded so good as right now.

uberwaltz
Thank You! And yes, this is one killer, sweet, spinner. CD/SACD playback is superb. I did consult other AYRE owners and the majority started out with the original 7 player then graduated to the 5 universal and finally the DX-5.Mine is in stock form.  Add the AX-5 Twenty Integrated and this is one incredible combination of presentation and sound.  Again, superb.
I am also interested in your switching out Fuse(s) on the Ayre.
I am staying tuned as you massage the C.E.C. into your system.Feel free to shoot-out the C.E.C. and Pioneer just for fun.
Happy Listening!

uberwaltz
how is the EX-8 continuing to develop in your room/system?
Happy Listening!

Jafant.
Good to hear from you my friend.
The ex8 continues to impress me daily, it was an excellent move on my part.
A really nice feature is Ayre and their continuous support and update.
As it is connected to internet for streaming it auto updates whenever Ayre release an update.
After last update I noticed a strong improvement in streaming SQ.
Very very nice indeed.
Hard to say it's my forever piece but I think I would have to spend a LOT OF 💰 to significantly better it.
So just keep enjoying the music, as I am right now.

Happy listening indeed!