2. digital
  3. 148949-4358

Positive experience with Ayre

I upgraded from my Ayre QB-9 to an Ayre Codex, which allows me to also stream music from my Oppo CDP through the DAC.  I had a somewhat loose Toslink connection on the Codex which I mentioned to Gary, Ayre's rep when I visited with him at Axpona.  He told me to send it back for an examination.  Ayre replaced the loose connector and put the unit on the bench for a day or so to make sure everything was functioning properly.  

All is well with the returned DAC with a secure fitting for my Toslink cable.  I am over the top happy with Ayre's customer service, as well as their outstanding products.  The Codex was a clear step up from my QB-9 with the advantage of additional connectivity.  And the Codex is nearly $1000 less costly than that of my original QB-9.  At its current price of $1800, if I recall correctly, it is a tremendous value in the world of high-end DAC's, easily a contender to the fine Schiit Yggy. 

Ayre is a first-class audio company and I really enjoy their Codex in my system.     


whitestix
10 responses Add your response
rossb
185 posts
 
Another positive experience with Ayre.

My new AX5 Twenty developed a minor fault, and needs one of the boards replaced. I am not in the US, but Ayre responded to my query overnight, organised the replacement board and contacted my local distributor directly, who then contacted me to arrange a pick up of the unit, all within the space of 24 hours.

It also helps that the AX5 Twenty is the best sounding amp I have owned in 30 years of this hobby. 






Ag insider logo xs@2x
hk_fan
460 posts
 
I agree that Ayre is a great company that makes fantastic products.  
whitestix OP
710 posts
 
Chesebert,
A "shill" for Ayre?  I only wanted to bring to other audiophiles' attention the excellent customer care I received from Ayre.  We evidently both think the Codex is a great DAC... I simply took the time to share my impressions with potentially interested parties.   I think my OP generated a lot of love for Ayre and I am happy about that.  
hgeifman
2,187 posts
 
The left channel in my 10+ year old Ayre Acoustics AX-7e integrated amp stopped working.  My retailer and I confirmed the left channel was out (there was no sound) and shipped it to Ayre for repair.  

The repaired Ayre amp was returned 2 months later and they also adjusted the amp’s bias and the DC offset.  I reinstalled the amp and it sounds terrific.  In addition, in case you are wondering, Ayre did not charge me for these repairs.  This was very impressive customer service.  
Ag insider logo xs@2x
dbphd
1,628 posts
 
Just bought a used Codex to use with my A7e and KEF LS50s.  I've been using the USB port of my DX-5 DSD, but I'm rearranging things.  I use a QX-5 Twenty with KX-5/VX-5 Twenties and KEF Ref 1s in another setup.  Gary has been very helpful advising me about adding a fully balanced passive Marchand high-pass between the KX-5 and VX-5 and the phono stage of an Audible Illusions tube Modulus 3A tube preamp.
chesebert
67 posts
 
The OP reads like an ad shilling for Ayre. However, I agree with OPs observations having been an Ayre customer for over 10 years, with Codex being my latest purchase from Ayre.
jafant's avatar
jafant
19,602 posts
 

Another +vote for Gary and crew at AYRE. I recently had the drive/transport replaced in my DX-5 universal player. Now, all of my discs spin issue-free. This is my first encounter with these guys.

I am looking forward to the next purchase within the Twenty Series of gear.  Happy Listening!

whitestix OP
710 posts
 
I would love to hear the QX-5 Twenty in my system.   Maybe in few years I can find a good deal on a used one. As a pensioner, the Codex fit my budget very well and sounds outstanding.  Thanks for chiming in.  
thyname's avatar
thyname
3,107 posts
 
Wait until you get the QX-5 Twenty. If you like Codex, you will be blown away by the QX-5!

And Gary @ Ayre is a class act guy!
droleg's avatar
droleg
134 posts
 
I have also had wonderful experiences with Gary, Mike, and Adrien of Ayre. They are a pleasure to deal with.
Log in to respond
More to discover
80x80
Mytek Manhattan II DAC
80x80
MBL 1611f
80x80
Gryphon Kalliope