AYRE EX-8 silver, EX-8 Net silver, EX-8 Digital base silver, EX-8 Full silver, EX-8 USB silver Ayre-EX-8-Manual.pdf

Ayre EX-8

Owner’s Manual

Integrated Hub

2

Contents

Welcome to

Setup and

Controls and

Statement of

In Case of

A Place for

Table of

Welcome to

Connection and

Connection and

Controls and

Setup and

Streaming and

Streaming and

Numbers and

Numbers and

In Case

Statement o

A Place for

Ayre . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4

Installation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Operation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .13

Customization . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18

Networking. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34

Trouble . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Warranty . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Notes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43

6

28

35

39

3

Welcome to

To our North American

customers, please be sure to

your warranty

Ayre

mail

registration card.

Thank you for purchasing the EX-8 Integrated Hub. We
sincerely hope you get as much joy listening through it as
we did designing and building it.

Our team has been designing world-class, award winning
products since 1993. It is our goal to make the most
musically accurate equipment we possibly can at any
given price range. We enjoy designing, building, and
talking about what we do. If you have any questions
about your new Ayre product, please don’t hesitate to
give us a call.

Your EX-8 is the culmination of decades of audio
innovation, distilling elements from Ayre’s most
celebrated works into one powerful piece of equipment.
As always, the warmth and immediacy of a live
performance are apparent from the first listening.
Combining superb resolution and a natural, relaxed
quality, your EX-8 will draw you into the music time
and time again.

4

This level of performance has been implemented using
the highest level of workmanship and materials. You can
be assured the EX-8 will provide you a lifetime of
musical enjoyment.

Quick Start

The information required

to install, operate, and

optimize your amplifier is

contained in the following

three chapters of this

manual. The remaining

additional

information that may be

chapters cover

To begin enjoying your EX-8, connect any audio
source to the rear of the unit. You may also use a
wired or wireless Ethernet connection to begin
streaming music.

For the most current information on streaming
music with your EX-8, visit the streaming section
of our website: http://streaming.ayre.com

read at your leisure.

Connect your choice of an output device
(headphones, loudspeakers, or secondary amplifier) to
the appropriate connectors of the EX-8, and then
supply the EX-8 with power from a wall outlet.
Toggle the rear power switch to the ON (I) position
to provide power to the unit.

Press the left-hand button on the front of the EX-8 or
power button on the included remote control to wake
the unit from sleep. Use the right-hand button (on
the faceplate) or left and right arrow keys (on the
remote control) to select the input you wish to use.
Control the volume using either the knob on the EX­8 or the + and – keys on the remote control.

5

Connection and

Do not stack the Ayre EX-8

components,

restrict the air flow

hum into the audio

The infrared beam will travel

Location

Installation

directly with other

as this may

or induce

circuitry.

The Ayre EX-8 is easy to set up and use. The following
guidelines will ensure the installation goes smoothly.
At this point, you should consider how you would like
to use the EX-8 in your system and how to incorporate
your other equipment.

In this section, you will find descriptions of the various
connections that are available on your EX-8, as well as
recommendations for their intended use.

A good location for the EX-8 is in an open-backed
cabinet or on a shelf. The amplifier section produces a
moderate amount of heat during operation. Be sure to
provide at least three inches (75 mm) of air space
above the amplifier.

6

through glass.

An adequate supply of air flow will avoid
overheating the amplifier.

The receiver for the remote control is between the two
front panel buttons. A line of sight from the listening
position will ensure maximum range.

Once installed, a break-in

period of around 100 to 500

hours will allow the amplifier to

reach its full sonic potential.

Analog Inputs

Digital Inputs

Break-in Period

When you have a choice, a

The digital inputs on the EX-8

are options which can be

included when the product is

first ordered or can be added at

balanced connection will offer

slightly higher sound quality

than a single-ended connection.

Due to the manufacturing processes used for the wires,
capacitors, and circuit board materials, a break-in
period is necessary for the amplifier to reach its full
sonic potential.

Each input uses a different physical path on the
input circuit board, therefore a separate break­in period is required for each input.

Every EX-8 comes complete with three analog audio
inputs: one pair of balanced XLR inputs

(B1) and

two pairs of single-ended RCA inputs (S1 and S2).

The Digital base option of the EX-8 includes four
inputs, one AES balanced input

(S/PDIF), and two TOSLINK (Optical 1 and 2).

(AES/EBU), one RCA

a later time.

The USB option includes one USB type B port for
asynchronous USB audio

The Network option allows you to connect to your
local area network
USB ports
wirelessly using the included USB Wi-Fi adapter
and/or directly access files from a USB flash drive.

(USB Host) which allow you to connect

(Ethernet Input). There are also two

(USB Audio Input).

7

USB Audio Input

Firm ware

Update

AyreLink

AyreLink

Volt s
50/60 Hertz
500 W Max

Preamp/Sub Outputs

Analog Inputs

B1

S1S2

Preamp/Sub
Output Mode

Stereo

Mono

B1

S1 S2

Analog Inputs

Preamp/Sub Outputs

EX-8 Integrated Hub

Serial No.

Optical Inputs
1 2

USB Host

USB Host

Ethernet

Input

Word Clk

Output

AES/EBU

Input

S/PDIF Input

Boulder

, Colorado USA

A y r e

1 2

3

2

1

4

5

6

7

8

9

10

11

12

13

15

14

16

17

13

12

11

1) Loudspeaker Outputs

2) USB Host Ports

3) Ethernet Input

4) Word Clock Output

5) AES/EBU Input

6) S/PDIF Input

7) Optical Inputs

8) AyreLink Ports

9) Firmware Update Port

10) USB Audio Input

11) Balanced Analog Input

12) Singled-ended Analog Inputs

13) Preamp/Sub Outputs

14) On/Off Power Switch

15) Preamp/Sub Output Mode Switch

16) AC Fuse holder

17) IEC Power inlet

8

1

3

2

4

5

6

7

1) Left-hand Button

• Sleep/Mute

2) IR Receiver / Status LED

3) Right-hand Button

• Input Select

4) Display

5) Balanced Headphone Out

6) Single-ended Headphone Out

7) Volume Control

9

Stereo

Mono

1 2

Loudspeaker Outputs

Headphone Outputs

Preamplifier Outputs

The heavy-

duty output

8

work best with speaker cables

The Stereo/Mono Selection

switch lets you configure your

preamplifier outputs for

terminals of the Ayre EX-

equipped with ¼” spade lugs.

The EX-8 drives the loudspeakers with balanced outputs.
Since none of the output terminals are grounded,
connecting any of them to ground may result in damage
to the amplifier.

different purposes.

The balanced and single-ended preamplifier outputs on
the rear panel of the EX-8 allow for a seperate
amplifier/subwoofer to be driven. Two switches
accessible through the rear panel allow for these outputs
to be configured as mono or stereo. Both switches must
be in the same position (up or down) for the outputs to
operate as intended.

Do not connect the loudspeaker outputs to
any speaker switch-box, accessory, or test
equipment that has a common ground
connection.

¼” Headphone Jack:

Single-ended

10

Headphones can be connected easily to the front of the
EX-8. Between the display and volume knob you will
find three connectors; one for single-ended headphones
and two for a set of balanced headphones. The single ¼”
on the right will allow you to listen in single-ended
mode.

AyreLink Ports

For improved stack

integration, try connecting

your Ayre equipment

The two 3.5mm connectors on the left will allow you to
listen to headphones in balanced mode. These outputs
are not compatible with single-ended headphones.

3.5mm Headphone Jacks:

Balanced

together with AyreLink.

Headphones with a 3.5mm stereo connector can
be used with the EX-8 by using a ¼” to 3.5mm
adapter.

Only use headphones with stereo phone plugs
(two insulating rings). Mono phone plugs
(single ring) may damage the unit. Four
conductor (three rings) plugs may not
connect properly, distorting the sound.

The EX-8 automatically detects when headphones are
plugged in. The loudspeaker and preamp outputs are
disabled while the headphone outputs are active.

All outputs on the EX-8 share a common
volume control. Exercise caution when
connecting headphones, as ‘nominal’ volume
levels vary.

The AyreLink communication system provides a
convenient way to control your audio system. There are
two AyreLink ports on the rear panel of the EX-8. Each
port has four contacts and contains both an input and an
output. Both ports function identically and may be used
interchangeably.

Be sure to use two-line telephone cords to
make AyreLink connections. These can be
identified by the four gold contacts on each
connector.

11

The linked components should be connected in daisy-

Word Clock Output

The word clock output lets

u synchronize a digital

Firmware Update Port

To use AyreLink with an

integrated control system, an

232 adapter box

Contact your

chain fashion, connecting each component to another

optional RS-

is available.

Ayre dealer for details.

yo

source to the EX-8.

until all of the linked components have been connected.
Be careful not to connect the two ends of the chain.

Closing the chain to form a loop will cause the AyreLink
system not to function.

Some digital products have word clock inputs and
provide higher performance when supplied with a high­quality external word clock. The word clock output in
the Ayre EX-8 is derived from the ultra-low phase-noise
master clock built into the Digital base option.

12

The Firmware Update port allows you to update core
Firmware with a USB flash drive. For more
information, see page 25.

System-sleep mode reduces

the power consumption of

Operation

System-sleep Mode

Active Mode

Controls and

the EX-8 without turning it

off completely.

The following chapter details operation of the EX-8. On
the front of the unit, you will find two buttons, a status
LED, a display, an IR receiver for the remote, and a
volume knob. In addition to these controls, some
network applications can provide further integration
with the unit.

When first turned on, the EX-8 automatically enters
System-sleep mode, indicated by a green status LED.
The amplifier’s audio circuitry is disabled, reducing the
amount of power it draws. To activate the unit, simply
press the left-hand button on the front of the unit, or the
power button on the remote. If either button is held for
three seconds, AyreLink connected devices will also be
turned on.

Active mode provides
power to the audio circuit
and enables the system for

listening.

Once in Active mode, the audio circuitry in the unit is
enabled. The currently selected input is displayed on the
screen and any signal present at that input will be driven
to the enabled output(s). When available, information or
meta-data from a digital recording being played will be
shown on the EX-8’s display.

13

8 volume control is

To make input selection

easier, try disabling any

inputs you aren’t using

When muted, the amplifier

prevents signal from

reaching the outputs.

The EX-

purely analog.

through the menu.

Volume Control

The volume control in the EX-8 is motorized and may
be controlled using the knob on the front of the unit, the
remote control handset, or a network application.

Input Selection

By pressing the right-hand button on the front panel,
the currently selected input will cycle to the next enabled
input. This may also be adjusted using the left/right
arrow keys or number keys on the remote handset. To
learn more about enabling/disabling inputs, see page 21.

Mute / System-sleep

A quick press of the left-hand button will mute the
audio outputs of the EX-8. While muted, an icon will
appear on the display. A second short press of the left­hand button will un-mute the unit.

By pressing and holding the left-hand button for three
seconds, the EX-8 and any AyreLink connected devices
will return to System-sleep mode.

14

Headphones

When either single-ended or balanced headphones are
connected, the amplifier automatically reconfigures for
headphone playback, and the headphone symbol is
shown on the display.

By pressing the headphone button on the remote
control, you can switch between headphone and rear­panel outputs while headphones are connected.

8 is

rated for years of use, but to

keep it in best condition we

the display

Display

The display in the EX-

recommend that

be allowed to timeout.

Brightness button

After a period of inactivity the display automatically
powers off, indicated by a blue status LED. This
minimizes the amount of active digital circuitry to
ensure the best sound quality while also extending the
lifetime of the display. This feature may be extended,
shortened, or disabled entirely through the menu, see
page 23.

The brightness of the display may be controlled via
remote control. Each press of the brightness button
cycles through the four available brightness settings.

Sample Rate

When digital audio is playing, the EX-8 will display the
sample rate it is receiving. If you are expecting a different
sample rate than what the EX-8 shows, check the
settings in your source software.

Changing the brightness on your EX-8 will adjust
the display brightness of any AyreLink connected
components to the same level.

Meta-data

If “Track” or “Artist” information becomes available
while using the Network input, it will be displayed on
the screen.

15

HDCD Indicators

If Pacific Microsonics HDCD headers are detected in
the digital data-stream, the HDCD icon will appear on
the screen to indicate the EX-8 is playing true HDCD.

Pre-emphasis Indicator

The letters PRE beside the sample rate indicates that the
current track was recorded with pre-emphasis, and the
proper de-emphasis EQ is being applied.

16

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

8 9

0

OK

Remote Handset

3

1

2

4

5

7

8

c

b

a

d

e

g

f

6

The provided remote control handset will operate the
Ayre EX-8 as well as other Ayre products.

The top row of buttons contains illuminating product
selection keys. By pressing one of these, you may select
which type of device you would like to control.
Whenever another button is pressed, the key
corresponding to the current selection will illuminate.

1) Product Selection Keys

3) Brightness Cycle

4) Mute Toggle

5) Number Keys (Input Selection)

6) Headphone button

2) System-sleep / Active Mode

7) Navigation keys

a. Up (Volume)
b. Down (Volume)
c. Left (Previous Input)
d. Right (Next Input)
e. Enter Setup
f. OK (Select)
g. Return

8) Transport Controls (Not used)

17

Customization

Setup and

Setup Menu

Setup button

Return button

Your EX-8 offers a high level of flexibility in terms of
setup. The following information will allow you to
configure the unit in the best way for your system.

To access and operate the menu, you may either use the
remote included with the unit, or the two buttons to the
left of the display.

Operation using the remote

To access the menu, press the Setup button on the
remote. “Setup Menu” will be displayed on the screen
briefly, then the main menu will load. All outputs are
muted while the unit is in the setup menu.

Once in the menu, the navigation keys (up, down, left
and right) allow you to adjust your selection in the
menu. With the desired selection highlighted, press OK
to select it. To return to the previous screen, press the
Return button. To immediately exit the menu, you may
press the Setup button at any time.

18

Operation using front panel buttons

Arrow symbols indicate more

content is available off-screen:

To access the menu, you must first place the unit into
System-sleep mode. This can be done by pressing and
holding the left-hand button for 3 seconds and will be
indicated by a green status LED. Next press and hold the
right-hand button for three seconds. “Setup Menu” will
be displayed on the screen briefly, then the root menu
will load.

Once in the menu, the right-hand button will allow you
to adjust your current selection; each press will cycle
through the list of available options. With the desired
selection highlighted, a quick press of the left-hand
button will select it. To return to the previous screen,
press and hold the left-hand button.

Screen layout and icons

The menu screen is organized with the section title at the
top and a list of options below.

At any one time, four options may be displayed on the
screen. An arrow symbol on either the left or right side
of the screen indicates that more options are available
off-screen, in that direction.

Setting Selection marker:

Some screens contain a list of sub-menus, while others
control a specific setting. On a setting screen, the current
value of the setting being modified is indicated by a
mark to the left of that setting. Once a new setting has
been selected, the mark moves to reflect the change.

19

Menu Structure and Contents

Input Sub-menu

8 setup menu has

menus, which allow

amplifier

Different settings are

available for the different

inputs available in

From the main menu, you will have access to the five
main sub-menus: Input, Output, Display, Network, and
System.

The EX-

five sub-

you to optimize the

types of

for your system.

The Input sub-menu will allow you to access settings
specific to each input installed in your EX-8.

The Output sub-menu contains settings for the output
sections of your amplifier.

The Display sub-menu will allow you to adjust the
display timeout setting, which causes the display to turn
off after a preset period of inactivity.

The Network sub-menu will allow you to access Wi-Fi
setup functions, network connection information,
network F/W updates, and network module reset.

The System sub-menu will allow you to set Auto-sleep
mode, check current F/W revisions, check module
installation, and perform a system factory default reset.

After entering the Input sub-menu, select the input you
would like to modify. The settings available for the
selected input will appear.

the EX-8.

Some settings are available for all inputs, while others are
only available for analog or digital inputs exclusively.

20

ink ID setting

allows the system to

lly configure

when an Ayre source is

Settings available for all inputs

The AyreL

automatica

turned on.

Enable (On/Off) – This setting determines whether an
input is enabled for use. Disabled inputs are not
selectable, allowing quicker access to inputs that are in
use. By default, all inputs are enabled.

Name – The name displayed for each input can be
assigned individually with either a preset or a custom
name. By selecting “Custom” from the name selection
screen, you may modify the stored custom name for the
selected input up to the character limit of ten. The
default name for each input matches the input name on
the rear-panel of the EX-8.

AyreLink ID (A – Z) – The AyreLink ID associated
with an input refers to the source connected to that
input. Selecting the correct ID allows for optimal
AyreLink functionality between your EX-8 and a
connected Ayre source component. For example, if a
CX-8 is connected via TOSLINK to the Optical 1 input
of the EX-8, an AyreLink ID of ‘C’ should be assigned
to the Optical 1 input.

Reset (Yes / No) – Selecting Yes will restore all settings
for the selected input to their default.

Settings available for analog inputs

Pass-Through (On / Off) – When an input with Pass­Through enabled is selected in Active mode, the system
will adjust the volume to unity gain. This can be helpful
when the EX-8 is driven by a separate pre-amplifier or
surround-sound processor.

21

Output Sub-menu

Through

ode, Video Mode, and

Word Clock Output only

Note that Pass-

m

affect the selected input.

Settings available for digital inputs

Video Mode (Music / Video) – During normal
operation (Music Mode) data from the AES/EBU,
S/PDIF, and Optical inputs are asynchronously buffered
and then re-clocked using the EX-8’s high quality local
oscillators. This can cause the audio data to become out
of sync with the source. Selecting Video Mode forces the
EX-8 to synchronize with the incoming data stream,
which will keep the audio and video in sync.

Word Clock Output (On / Off) – Some digital
products have word clock inputs and provide higher
performance when supplied with a high-quality external
word clock. This setting determines whether this clock
signal is active for the selected input.

The Output sub-menu lets you enable different outputs
of the amplifier and set the level from the digital inputs.

22

Output Mode (Fully enabled, Preamp/Sub Only,
Speakers Only) – By default, the EX-8 is fully enabled,
but either the Preamp/Sub output or Speaker outputs
may be disabled if not required for your system.

Headphone output functionality is not affected by this
setting.

Digital Level (0db, -6db, -12db) – The Digital Level
allows you to lower the output from the digital side of
the EX-8 in order to more closely match the level of your
analog sources. This setting effects all the digital inputs.

Display Sub-menu

Network Sub-menu

The Display sub-menu contains the Display Timeout
Setting.

Display Timeout (5s, 15s, 30s, 60s, Never) – While
the system is active, the display will automatically turn
off after a period of inactivity defined by this setting.

Please note that leaving the display timeout in
“Never” mode can cause faster than normal
fading of the display.

The Network sub-menu allows you to perform Wi-Fi
setup procedures, access your device’s IP addresses, check
for network firmware updates, and perform a network
reset that clears your network settings.

Wi-Fi Setup – The AP and WPS functions found here
allow you to connect your EX-8 to a home network. For
detailed instructions, please refer to the Wi-Fi setup
section of the manual (page 29).

Connection – The connection screen will display the
EX-8’s current LAN and WLAN IP addresses.

Check for Update – Once confirmed, the EX-8 will
attempt to contact Ayre’s FTP server and determine if
the local firmware is the latest available. If an update is
available, it will be installed automatically. For more
information, refer to the Firmware Update section of the
manual (page 25).

23

System Sub-menu

Reset – Once confirmed, any stored Wi-Fi network
information, Device Names, and other network settings
will be cleared to the defaults and the network module
will reboot.

The System sub-menu provides access to system
information as well as the Factory Reset function.

Auto-Sleep Mode (Enable / Disable) – In order to save
energy, the EX-8 can automatically disable its audio
circuitry when a selected digital input remains inactive
for a period of 30 minutes. As soon as the input becomes
active again, or if any other changes are detected, the
audio circuitry is automatically re-enabled.

FW Revisions – The firmware revision screen contains
all the current revision codes installed in the unit.

Options Installed – The EX-8 offers several optional
inputs. This screen shows which of these options have
been detected and are ready for use.

24

Factory Reset – The factory reset function restores all
settings to their defaults.

Performing a factory reset will reset all names
and settings for ALL inputs and outputs.

Firmware Updates

Firmware updates over the

network may take up to 30

minutes, depending on your

network connection.

Firmware updates will be made available for the EX-8 as
new features are added or as ease of use is improved.
There are two types of firmware updates that are
available for the EX-8.

For detailed information about firmware updates, and to
check for available updates, please visit
www.ayre.com/ex8_support.htm.

Do not turn off the EX-8 while updates are
in progress.

Network Firmware Updates

If the Network option is installed in your EX-8,
firmware updates can be performed automatically over
the internet.

Whenever the unit enters System-sleep mode, it will
attempt to contact Ayre’s servers and check for available
updates. If any are found, you will be prompted to
download and install the them. You may also manually
check for updates using the menu.

USB Firmware Updates

The system (SYS) and signal processing (DSP) firmware
can be updated using the USB Firmware Update port on
the rear of the unit.

25

If an error occurred during a

network update that has
affected your unit, try using
the USB Firmware Update

method to recover.

To successfully update over

USB, ensure that the file

placement is correct. Also

note that file and folder

names are case sensitive.

When the unit is first powered on with the On / Off
rocker switch, it will automatically check for a USB flash
drive in the USB Firmware Update port. If a drive is
detected, it will search for available firmware files and
install them.

To perform a USB firmware update, please refer to the
following procedure.

1) If the EX-8’s firmware revisions do not match

the revisions available at
www.ayre.com/ex8_support.htm, you may
download the new files from the website to your
computer by following the links on the page.

2) The new firmware will be in a compressed

folder called “EX8boot.zip”. This compressed
folder contains two program files, “ex8_p--­.hex” and “ex8_x---.bin”. Place these two files
into a folder called “EX8boot” in the root
directory of a USB flash drive. Please note the
folder and program files are case sensitive.

26

Both program files should be placed into the
USB flash drive at the following directory
location: “[Drive:]/EX8boot/”.

3) Turn the power switch on the back panel of the

EX-8 to the OFF position and allow several
seconds for the device to power down.

4) Insert the USB flash drive into the port labeled

“Firmware Update” on the back panel.

Be sure to insert the flash drive into the Firmware
Update port and not either of the USB Host
ports, as these will not allow the unit to update.

5) Turn the power switch on the back panel of the

unit into the ON position. The firmware update
will commence automatically and the screen will
show “Installing Update”.

6) Once the update is complete, the unit will start

as normal. Once in the System-sleep state,
return the unit to operation mode by pressing
the left-hand button.

7) The USB flash drive can be safely removed from

the Firmware Update port.

27

Streaming and

Networking

Network Connection

Connecting with an Ethernet cable

If available, a hard-wired

thernet connection is the best

8 to

E

way to connect your EX-

your home network.

To begin streaming audio to your EX-8 over the
network, you will first need to set up your connection.
The EX-8 can be connected either with a standard
network cable, or with the included USB Wi-Fi adapter.

Once set up, the EX-8 will be available for playback
from a variety of applications.

Connection quality has a significant effect on sound
quality. The best quality audio will be achieved with a
short hard-wired connection to your home network. If a
wireless connection is required, the best performance will
be achieved by keeping the distance between your EX-8
and wireless router to a minimum.

Once connected to your home router with a standard
Ethernet cable, the EX-8 will automatically connect to
your home network and be available for use by any
devices connected to the same network.

28

Connecting Wirelessly

Fi Protected Setup

feature

The three methods below will allow you to connect to
your home network via Wi-Fi using the included USB
Wi-Fi adapter. After performing one of these procedures,
your EX-8 will automatically connect to your home Wi­Fi when it is powered on.

Wi-

(WPS) is a common

in wireless routers.

Wi-Fi Connection using WPS

If your Wi-Fi router supports WPS, this is likely the
quickest and easiest way to connect your EX-8 to your
home Wi-Fi network. You will need to know how to
activate the WPS function on your wireless router.

1) Connect the included USB wireless network

adapter to one of the two “USB host” ports on
the rear-panel of the EX-8.

2) Enter the Setup Menu and navigate to the

Network sub-menu. From here you can select
Wi-Fi setup, and then the WPS function.

3) Once confirmed, wait for the EX-8 display to

change from “WPS Function: Initializing” to
“WPS Function: Running”.

4) Activate the WPS function by pressing the WPS

button on your Wi-Fi router.

5) The two devices will attempt to establish a

connection, and when complete the EX-8 will
display “Connection success!” This may take
about a minute.

29

With a temporary wired

Fi

network information can be

To download mConnect,

please visit the app store

mobile

device and search for

connection, your Wi-

Wire-aided Wi-Fi Connection

To achieve the wire-aided Wi-Fi connection, you will
need a smart device connected to your home network.
You will also need to download and install the

provided to the EX-8.

mConnect application to the device.

supported by your

“mConnect control”.

30

1) Connect the included USB Wi-Fi adapter to

one of the two “USB host” ports on the rear­panel of the EX-8. Also connect your unit to
your home router using an Ethernet cable.

2) Using your smart device, open the mConnect

application.

3) Access the mConnect setup menu using the gear

icon on the player screen, then select “Device
Setup”.

4) Select “Ayre EX-8” from the list of available

devices. You may need to refresh the list.

5) Select “Wi-Fi Network Selection”.

6) Choose the desired Wi-Fi network from the list

of available networks. You may need to refresh
the list.

7) Type in your password. A notice will appear

indicating “The device is attempting to connect
to the network”. Press OK.

8) After the wireless connection is established, you

may disconnect the Ethernet cable and relocate
the EX-8 if necessary.

By hosting its own network

8 allows

you to connect to it with a

smart device and provide

Fi network

temporarily, the EX-

your Wi-

information.

Wi-Fi Connection with the AP function

The Access Point (AP) function causes the EX-8 to
temporarily host its own Wi-Fi network. By connecting
to this network with a smart device, you may provide the
EX-8 your own Wi-Fi network information, similar to
wire-aided Wi-Fi connection.

To perform the Access Point procedure, you will need a
smart device connected to your home network. You will
also need to download and install the mConnect
application to the device (page 33).

1) Connect the included USB Wi-Fi adapter to

one of the two “USB Host” ports on the rear­panel of the EX-8.

2) Enter the Setup Menu and navigate to the

Network sub-menu. From here you can select
Wi-Fi setup and then the Access Point function.

3) Once Access Point has been selected, and

confirmed, wait for the EX-8 display to change
from “Access Point Function: Initializing” to
“Access Point Function: Running”.

4) Using your smart device, you will need to

connect to the Wi-Fi network hosted by your
EX-8, named “EX-8_---”. The password is
“password”.

5) Once connected to the “EX-8_---” Wi-Fi

network, open the mConnect application.

31

Network Applications

Gear icon

6) Access the mConnect setup menu using the gear

icon on the player screen, then select “Device
Setup”.

7) Select “Ayre EX-8” from the list of available

devices. You may need to refresh the list.

8) Select “Wi-Fi Network Selection”.

9) Choose the desired Wi-Fi network from the list

of available networks. You may need to refresh
the list.

10) Type in your password. A notice will appear

indicating “The device is attempting to connect
to the network”. Press OK.

11) At this point, the EX-8 will stop hosting its own

network, and attempt to join the network you
selected. If it is successful, the EX-8 will display
“Connection success!”

32

The EX-8 network module supports a variety of network
standards, which allows you to stream to and control the
device. Below are a few of the supported applications.
For a complete list, please visit:

http://www.ayre.com/ex8_support.htm

.

download mConnect,

please visit the app store

supported by your mobile

device and search for

compatible network

applications available. Here

To

“mConnect control”.

mConnect Control

Some features supported by the EX-8 may only be
available through the “mConnect Control” application.
For a complete list of features, please visit the website
above.

Spotify

There are a number of

are a few you might like.

With a Spotify Premium account, the EX-8 becomes an
available Spotify Connect device. Using the Spotify
application, select the “Ayre EX-8” as the playback
device.

Roon

Roon is an advanced and powerful software application
capable of relating, organizing and playing back a large
digitally stored music library. As shipped from the
factory, the EX-8 is a “Roon Ready Endpoint”, which
will allow you to connect to and control the EX-8 from a
Roon control application.

Generic UPnP Applications

A variety of applications across platforms support the
DLNA standard, which allows them to stream music
files to the EX-8. Searching for “UPnP control apps” in
your device’s application store will help you find
available options.

33

Numbers and

Specifications

Analog Inputs

Digital Inputs

XLR Input Polarity

One Balanced: 8 V rms max
Two Single-ended: 4 V rms max

Optical/SPDIF/AES

• PCM 16, 20, 24 bits at 44.1 - 192 kHz

• DSD64

USB

• PCM 16, 20, 24 bits at 44.1 - 384 kHz

• DSD64 and DSD128 (as DoP)

(as DoP)

Network

Pin 1 = Ground

PCM 16, 20, 24 bits at 44.1 - 192 kHz

•

DSD64

•

Pin 2 = Non-inverting (Positive)
Pin 3 = Inverting (Negative)

Frequency Response

Power Output

Input Impedance

Headphone Outputs

Power Consumption

Dimensions

Weight

34

DC – 250 kHz

100 watts per channel continuous into 8 ohms

20 KΩ – unbalanced inputs
40 KΩ – balanced inputs (20 KΩ per phase)

4 V rms max balanced / 2 V rms max single-ended

60 watts in low-current consumption mode
120 watts in operating mode, no signal

17.25" W x 13.00" D x 3.75" H (44 cm x 33 cm x 10 cm)

24 pounds (11 kgs)

Fault Messages

In case of

Trouble

If you have trouble clearing

any of these faults, contact your

local Ayre dealer.

In the event that you experience any technical difficulties
with your Ayre product, the following items may help to
solve the problem or track down the cause.

The Ayre EX-8 will display faults when a problem
occurs. The following faults are listed, along with
possible solutions to the problem.

Low Voltage

If the AC line voltage supplied to the unit drops below
operable levels, this fault will be displayed. Once normal
power is restored to the unit, the fault should clear itself.

If the fault persists, try restarting the EX-8.

Fuse Blown

If either of the internal fuses in the EX-8 has blown, this
fault will be displayed. The fuses will need to be replaced
to clear the fault.

If the unit is completely unresponsive, the main AC
fuse in the IEC inlet may have blown.

For a list of replacement values, please visit the
product support page on our website.

35

Amplifier Overheated

If the internal temperature of the amplifier reaches a
critical level, the audio circuitry will be automatically
disabled to protect the internal components of the unit
and the fault “Amplifier Overheated” will be displayed.

This fault will persist until the temperature of the
amplifier returns to its normal operating range.

DC Offset

If DC Offset is detected at either of the Loudspeaker
outputs, the audio circuitry will automatically disable to
prevent damage to your speakers.

If an analog input was being used when DC Offset
appeared, follow these instructions to trouble shoot this
error:

1) Turn the volume control all the way down.

2) Return the EX-8 to Active mode by pressing the

left-hand button on the faceplate twice.

3) If the DC Offset fault does not reappear, then

the problem is likely in the attached source
component. In this case the fault will probably
return when you turn the volume back up.

4) If the DC Offset reappears immediately, power

off the EX-8 and contact an authorized Ayre
dealer.

36

Update Error

Network Connection Issues

Persistent Faults

If an error is detected during a firmware update process,
this fault will be displayed.

Please try to update the unit again using the USB
Firmware update method (page 25).

If the unit has become unresponsive, or if network
functionality has been impacted, the update error may
have critically impacted the system and must be taken to
an authorized Ayre dealer for repair.

In the event that any fault persists, or if another issue

occurs but is not displayed, please contact your Ayre
dealer for further assistance.

If the EX-8 cannot be seen by devices on your home
network or if playback is inconsistent, the following
steps may help.

If you are using a wireless connection, try connecting the
EX-8 with an Ethernet cable to see if that resolves the
problem.

Visit the “Network Info” page in the setup menu (page

23) and verify that the EX-8 has been assigned an IP
address on your home network. If both the “LAN IP”
and “WLAN IP” fields are blank, or zeroes, there may be
a connection issue between the EX-8 and your home
network. Try reviewing the connection steps (page 28).

37

USB Connection Issues

If you are experiencing streaming issues, visit the FW
Version page in the setup menu (page 24) and verify that
your NET firmware version matches the most recent
found on the support web page.

If you are experiencing any issues with the USB audio
input, please try the following;

Try using the stock USB A to B cable that came with
your EX-8. Some custom USB cables, or cables of
excessive length, can cause issues with USB connectivity
and playback.

If the EX-8 appears as “Unknown USB device”, or
something similar on your computer, you may be
experiencing a driver related issue. For more information
about drivers, visit the product support page at
www.ayre.com/ex8_support.htm.

38

Statement of

Warranty

North American Warranty

Your Ayre EX-8 integrated hub is warranted against
defects in materials and workmanship

five years from the date the unit was shipped from Ayre.
Additionally, you have the option at no cost to begin the
warranty from your date of purchase by returning the
completed Warranty Registration Card and a photocopy
of your original purchase receipt in the enclosed postage­paid envelope to Ayre within ninety days of product
delivery.

During the warranty period, Ayre will repair, or at our
discretion, replace a product found to be faulty. All
warranty repairs or service must be conducted by an
authorized Ayre agent. Please contact your Ayre dealer
for any service requests.

For further information regarding Ayre’s warranty
policy, please refer to the Warranty Registration Card
included with your product.

for a period of

39

North American Warranty Statement

1. If any defects are found in the materials or
workmanship of this Ayre product within the warranty
period, the unit will be repaired or replaced by Ayre
Acoustics, Inc. (Ayre) or its authorized agent.

2. Purchaser must return the product, packed in the
original shipping carton, freight prepaid to:

Ayre Acoustics, Inc.
6268 Monarch Park Place, Suite B
Niwot, Colorado 80503

or to Ayre’s authorized agent. The product must be
accompanied by a written description of the defect and a
photocopy of your original purchase receipt.

Ayre will not be responsible for any shipping damage
and strongly recommends the purchase of shipping
insurance.

40

3. Ayre reserves the right to inspect any product that is
the subject of any warranty claim prior to repairing or
replacing it. Final determination of warranty coverage
lies solely with Ayre. Out-of-warranty claims will be
billed for labor, materials, return freight, and insurance
as required.

Any product for which a warranty claim is accepted will
be returned to the purchaser and the cost of return
shipping and insurance will be factory prepaid within the
boundaries of the USA. Units to be shipped outside of
the USA will be shipped freight collect only.

4. Ayre strives to manufacture the finest possible
equipment, and therefore reserves the right to make
improvements on its products, without necessarily
assuming any obligation to retrofit such changes upon its
previously manufactured models.

5. The above warranty is the sole warranty given by Ayre
and is in lieu of all other warranties. All implied
warranties, including warranties of merchantability or
fitness for any particular purpose shall be strictly limited
to the duration of the above warranty. Ayre shall have no
further obligation of any kind, whether express or
implied. Further, Ayre shall in no event be obligated for
any incidental or consequential damages as a result of
any defect or any warranty claim, whether express or
implied.

6. Ayre does not authorize any third party, including any
dealer or sales representative, to assume any liability of
Ayre or make any warranty for Ayre. The unit must not
have been altered or improperly serviced. The serial
number on the unit must not have been altered or
removed.

7. The remaining period of this warranty is only
transferable to subsequent purchasers if the product is
resold by an authorized Ayre dealer.

41

International Warranty

Warranty terms outside of North America may vary.
Please contact the authorized Ayre distributor in your
country of purchase for the terms of warranty and also
the service itself.

42

A Place for

Notes

Serial Number:

Purchase Date:

Dealer:

Salesperson:

43

Ayre Acoustics, Inc.

6268 Monarch Park Place

Niwot, Colorado 80503

www.ayre.com

[phone]

44

Suite B