• Ayre Acoustics Model MX-R Amplifier $16,500 pr
• Ayre Acoustics K-1xe preamp $7000
• Vandersteen Quattro Loudspeaker $6995/pr.

This was a small room, star system if there ever was one. Not overpowering in size, it was spectacular in its ease and spaciousness of soundstage, clearly there was a synchronicity to this pairing. The new Ayre monoblocks represent a stylistic departure for the company and at first glance its narrow width and substantial depth appears to emulate the looks of some of current Class D offerings. I was quickly disabused of that notion. Its platform is an ultra rigid, aircraft grade aluminum chassis with circuitry that continues to improve upon Ayre’s zero feedback fully balanced designs. Orchestral microdynamics were exceptional no doubt due in part to the twin power transformers. With the Mx-R outputting a healthy 300W into 8 ohms and doubling that into 4 ohms I’ve never heard the Quattros exhibit the effortless sense of control and livliness that this system conveyed. Aided by a Linn LP12 and all Ayre wiring, the system felt utterly unified harmonically. Great sound.

Back to the Rocky Mountain Audio Fest coverage

+Visit our Speakers Reviews section at AVguide