AYRE AX-7

Second-hand. In good conditions. Shows signs of wear as seen in the photos. Comes with remote and manual, without original packaging.

The Ayre AX-7 is an integrated amplifier that combines a passive preamplifier with a feedback-free solid-state Class A/B amplifier. The system design includes four inputs, two of which are balanced, and the gain control is achieved via discrete metal-film resistors and a bank of FET switches. A distinctive feature of the AX-7 is its logic circuit, which ensures that all switching devices are disconnected from the signal path once a specific operation has been executed.

The true strength of the AX-7 lies in its power supply, where several improvements have been introduced. The power supply design includes three proprietary refinements that Ayre refers to as "Dynamic Power": additional filtering of the AC mains, increased peak current delivery, and filtering of rectifier switching noise.

Further innovation involves the management of operating voltages in the AX-7’s gain circuits, now utilizing two-stage voltage regulators (FETs driving bipolar transistors) instead of the single-stage regulators used in the previous model. This new configuration has led to improved regulation, with a high-impedance input and low-impedance output, resulting in a much more stable performance.

The end result is an integrated amplifier that sounds large and open, with a wide soundstage and convincing placement of instruments and vocals, making the listening experience particularly immersive.

The Ayre AX-7 is an ideal choice for those seeking exceptional sound quality in a balanced system. Its ability to reproduce music naturally and engagingly makes it a highly appreciated product.

Technical Specifications:

• Solid-state, two-channel integrated amplifier
• Inputs: 4 (2 balanced, 2 unbalanced)
• Output power: 60W per channel into 8 ohms (17.8 dBW), 120W per channel into 4 ohms (17.8 dBW)
• Frequency range: 2Hz - 200kHz
• Input impedance: 40k ohms balanced, 20k ohms unbalanced
• Maximum voltage gain: 35dB
• Dimensions: 17.25" W x 4.75" H x 13.75" D
• Weight: 25 lbs