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Ayre & Vandersteen

All--I have Vandersteen 2CE Signatures (new model) that I really do like and work very well in my 8 sided, acoustically correct room.
I am using an Ayre AX7E, Ayre QB-9 non DSD version, Mac Mini, Amarra, Verastarr Power cords and interconnect.
Has anyone used any other hi quality integrated as I believe that this amps is a bit underpowered, looking for more control, detail, etc.
I have very little experience with Vandersteen.
The new Ayre AX-5 is three times the price of the AX-7E, is it really worth three times the performance?
I am willing to go to tubes if necessary and prefer integrated amps, Thanks
nystereo
bar81
791 posts
 
I owned an AX-7e integrated and if the AX-5 sounds anything like the new KX-R Twenty (given that they both use Ayre's new diamond output stage), then you are looking at a significant performance upgrade that imo more than justifies the price differential.
ctsooner
2,480 posts
 
I have heard both on the Vandy Treo's along with Music Hall DAC and AQ cabling throughout. The AX 5 is worlds better, but it's also a lot more money. If money isn't a problem, then I would get the 5 in a heartbeat. I think all Ayre products sound similar, but the differences are huge in regards to the separates from what I have heard. I've heard every Ayre product in top systems and with all types of speakers and they always sound 'right'.
2psyop's avatar
2psyop
1,503 posts
 
I agree with Oros. I have a Line Magnetic Audio 216IA and it makes the 2CE Sig IIs sing. I also have a Parasound A21 that drives about 300 watts to those speakers as well when I swap them. I cannot tell the difference, both sound great. I would give the edge to the low power LM Audio.
intermediatic's avatar
intermediatic
72 posts
 
Maybe you should think about an Ayre VX-5 and K-5xe? That's the combo I have with my Vandersteen Quatros and it's fantastic. Remember that the better Vandersteens require filters and that it's better to have separates for that. Not that much more money, but more power and you'll be ready for Treos or Quatros (might as well just buy those because, frankly, subs are a big deal and you'll go nuts trying to figure out where to stick two subs after you realize the Treos need them).
ctsooner
2,480 posts
 
Bob, thanks. I"m not great at reaching out though, lol. I'm set on the Vandy Treo's, but am always looking and listening.
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