Ayre AX-5 Integrated Amplifier

Is that price finalized?

I heard it at RMAF in the Ayre room driving Vivid G3s. Definitely, one of my top rooms. I thought my AX-7 would be my amp for life but I'm trying to figure out how I can afford an AX-5!

"I was told by Ayre not to sell at this low price and if I ever wanted to buy this unit I need to sign an agreement that I would not sell the unit within 1 year."

Hmmm . . . me thinks there's more (or less?) to this story than you're telling.

I heard an AX-5 again last week, this time in a system with the new DX-5 DSD. I listened to a couple of tracks off a *CD* of John Lennon's "Double Fantasy". WOW! That might have been the best system I've ever heard. The soundstage was cavernous, tons of air, crisp and well-defined bass. Incredible transparency and clarity. Just super engaging and musical. I haven't heard an MX-R/KX-R for a couple of years now but I'm thinking the AX-5 is better!

The only downside was that it runs hot. I couldn't keep my hand on the chassis vents for more a than a few seconds. Well, that and that I can't afford one yet . . .