Talk to Charles Hansen or Steve at Ayre. My CX-7 (now upgraded to "evolution") and AX-7e needed at least 100 to 200 hours to sound their best, although the CX-7 bettered anything I had heard in its price range right out of the box.
I'd also talk to Ayre about interconnects and power cords. The TG Audio SLVR power cord and Cardas balanced interconnects had a profound impact on my CX-7's performance.
Good luck...I've read wonderful reviews of the C-5xe but haven't had the opportunity to audition. We no longer have an authorized Ayre dealer in Dallas, which is a downright shame.
I'd also talk to Ayre about interconnects and power cords. The TG Audio SLVR power cord and Cardas balanced interconnects had a profound impact on my CX-7's performance.
Good luck...I've read wonderful reviews of the C-5xe but haven't had the opportunity to audition. We no longer have an authorized Ayre dealer in Dallas, which is a downright shame.