Earlier this year, Colorado-based Ayre Acoustics previewed its new 8 series hi-fi components at the Munich High-End Show and the Rocky Mountain Audio Fest. Now, the first product in the series, the EX-8 integrated ‘hub' amplifier is now available here in the UK.
The new entry-level 8 series joins Ayre's existing ‘R' and ‘5' series. The trio of levels enables Ayre to offer their state-of-the-art technical innovation over a wider price range. Furthermore, we can expect a significant amount of technology to trickle down from the uncompromised musicality of the upper end of the range into the impressively affordable 8 series.
The EX-8 is a 100-watt per channel (into 8 ohms) integrated amplifier that not only offers a wide range of inputs, but also options. We are promised that the EX-8 offers the perfect high-performance centrepiece around which to build a scalable, flexible system as space and money allow. The amplifier incorporates both analogue and digital sources without compromising the quality of either.
As is the way with Ayre components, the EX-8 features fully balanced circuits with all discrete components and zero negative feedback. Unique technologies developed by Ayre that have from the award-winning ‘R' and ‘5' series include an Equilock gain stage, Variable Gain (VGT) volume circuit and Ayre's patent-pending Asynchronous S/PDIF interface.
The EX-8's modularity makes it incredibly versatile. It sports three analogue inputs (one balanced) and up to six digital inputs (Ethernet, USB, AES/EBU, S/PDIF and two Toslink). With the Ethernet module installed, it is Roon-ready and pre-configured to stream Spotify, Qobuz, and Tidal. What's more, it's designed to be upgradeable so that you're covered for any future developments.
Ayre's Double-Diamond output stage and pure linear analogue power supplies produce 100 watts of power. There's also a dedicated built-in headphone amplifier, designed to drive even the most demanding headphones.
Price and availability
The Ayre Acoustics EX-8 integrated ‘hub' amplifier is available now.
Here are the build options. Prices include VAT.
- Analogue inputs only £5,750
- Digital base (analogue and S/PDIF inputs) £6,750
- USB (digital base plus asynchronous USB) £7,250
- Net (digital base plus Ethernet) £7,500
- Full (digital base plus asynchronous USB Ethernet) £7,750
For more information visit Ayre Acoustics.
Posted in: Hi-Fi
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