Amp/Preamp Asylum: REVIEW: Ayre Acoustics V-3 Amplifier (SS) by rkeman

Model:	V-3
Category:	Amplifier (SS)
Suggested Retail Price:	$3800
Description:	100 watts per channel
Manufacturer URL:	Ayre Acoustics
Manufacturer URL:	Ayre Acoustics

Review by rkeman ( A ) on May 12, 2004 at 08:21:28
IP Address: 12.168.121.2

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The Ayre V-3 is a solid state power amplifier with a moderate power output (rated 100 W/ 8 ohms and 200W/ 4 ohms) that was last available at retail about 5 years ago (list about $3800 when new; generally available used for $1100-1400). The design uses no global feedback and utilizes MOSFET output devices. The particular model under review is one of the later units that had been updated by the previous owner with the Ayre Conditioner power supply, Cardas binding posts, and the Great Northern Sound input modification. The latter increases the input impedance of the amplifier to allow better operation with some tube preamps. The V-3 weighs in at a hefty 55 lbs. and is very well screwed together.
The V-3 needs a few days to settle in, sounding a little rough around the edges right out of the box. This was even true after just shipping this well broken-in amp. Using the balanced inputs is preferable, although it also performs well with the single-ended inputs. The noise floor is very low, and the sound has a smooth clean character. Even with a relatively high ouput impedance (the cost of avoiding negative feedback) the bass is well-focused and tight. Music has a lush midrange and palpable presence not often associated with solid state amplifiers, but without the euphonic colorations some tube amplifiers display. The power available should be sufficient for all but the most insensitive loudspeakers. Highly recommended for high end performance at a reasonable cost.

Product Weakness: Runs warm.
Product Strengths: Smooth and engaging sound. Very low noise.

Associated Equipment for this Review:
Amplifier:	Ayre V-3
Preamplifier (or None if Integrated):	None
Sources (CDP/Turntable):	Wadia 25 DAC/Preamp
Speakers:	SEAS Thor, Magnepan MG-1.6
Cables/Interconnects:	Vampire Wire, Canare DIY
Music Used (Genre/Selections):	Classical and pop
Room Size (LxWxH):	26' x 14' x 8'
Room Comments/Treatments:	Normal furnishings
Time Period/Length of Audition:	3 months
Other (Power Conditioner etc.):	None
Type of Audition/Review:	Product Owner

Product Weakness:	Runs warm.
Product Strengths:	Smooth and engaging sound. Very low noise.