Ayre Acoustics MX-R Monoblock Amplifiers

Mark Michelson has posted a review of the Ayre MX-R monoblock amplifiers ($18,500) at The Audio Beat. His conclusions:

The MX-Rs' combination of unrivaled transient fidelity, acute rendering of space, extreme quietness, and treble sweetness made for sound that was truly compelling — the kind that will urge you to rediscover your music collection. While the MX-Rs aren't physically massive, as some competing amps are, their jewel-like finish is more eye-catching than mere bulk, and their small size means they can be tucked out of sight if you're going for a minimalist aesthetic with your audio system. More than most audio components, the MX-Rs give the impression of heirloom quality. They convey uncompromising care and know-how in their design, their manufacture and especially their performance.

Which brings me back to where this review began. Do the MX-Rs make my best-of-the-best amplifier list? Oh, yeah. With ease.

You can read the full review here.