Power amplifiers stereo — Ayre Accoustics VX-5 Twenty

The VX-5 Twenty is a stereo power amplifier from Ayre Acoustics, an American manufacturer, marking a 20th-anniversary edition within the brand's VX amplifier line. Ayre's engineering philosophy centres on balanced, fully differential circuit topology throughout its product range, and the VX-5 Twenty extends that approach into a considerably updated version of the standard VX-5.

Key specs that matter

Input impedance is an exceptionally high 2,000,000 ohms balanced or 1,000,000 ohms single-ended - figures far beyond what most amplifiers specify, reflecting Ayre's distinctive circuit design philosophy. Output power is 175W into 8 ohms, doubling to 350W into 4 ohms - a clean power doubling suggesting a robust, well-regulated power supply. Gain is 26dB, with maximum power consumption at 325W. At 440 x 480 x 120mm and 24kg, the VX-5 Twenty keeps a comparatively compact footprint for its output capability.

Sound and use context

Expect the clean, neutral character Ayre's fully balanced, differential circuit topology is designed to deliver - the exceptionally high input impedance minimises any loading effect on a connected preamplifier, a detail-oriented engineering choice consistent with Ayre's broader design philosophy across its product range.

Pairing

The exceptionally high input impedance eases compatibility with virtually any preamplifier's output stage without loading concerns, and the clean power doubling into 4 ohms suits a wide range of loudspeaker impedances.

Alternatives

Ayre's standard VX-5 sits below this anniversary edition at a lower price while sharing the same core balanced circuit philosophy, worth considering instead if the Twenty edition's specific refinements and anniversary pricing exceed what a particular budget calls for. The anniversary-edition refinements reflect two decades of accumulated experience with this specific balanced circuit topology, a detail collectors of the marque may find particularly appealing. Ayre's decision to mark two decades of the VX-5 platform with a dedicated Twenty edition, rather than simply discontinuing the line, speaks to the design's lasting relevance within the brand's broader catalogue.