D'Agostino vs. Ayre

Interesting comparison, bar81.  I, too, consider the Ayre Twenty series top-notch. I would not consider them inferior to D'Agostino or Audio Research electronics. Just different. My thoughts have both been documented in this thread, and in another called Ayre vs. Audio Research. My system sounded truly wonderful with all Ayre electronics. And it sounds absolutely magical now, with Audio Research and D'Agostino electronics.

I haven't heard the D'Agostino's but I have never hear Ayre's sound thin or lean except cold.

Best,

E

As a proponent of the Synergistic Black fuse in my Audio Research Reference 6, I was curious how the new Blue fuse would sound. Simply put, I do not like it in my system. It's as if some of the energy has been zapped from the presentation, especially in the highs. I'm going back to Black.

The D'Agostino has more meat on the bones.  I prefer that to the Ayre which is still very good but a little too polite for my tastes.

Both are excellent.

I finally found this thread again. Lots of great information- and presented in a friendly way.
This is how audiophiles can learn.
@OP  I think you really nailed the differences between the Ayre and D'Ag amps.
Pat at SMc makes a similar case for the Synergistic Black Fuse,too. As a 'budget minded' buyer, I hate to indulge in fuses, but hearing from such distinguished reviewers convinces me to give it a try. 
Bob