Meridian Unplugged - Powered by MrTechGuy.co.uk Forums Discussion Meridian - Systems My thoughts on Meridian

Those guys at Classe and Krell still package their processor the way they make their 2 channel DACs, which is basically high quality D/A converts and good analog section.

Meridian's value is completely in their surround software. Those light-weights don't have the psychoacoutstic research background or digital data manipulation expertise to tackle any of these stuff, so they stick with the "preserving the signal" concept of 2 ch PCM world.

Those processors might tout upgradability, but will the ever provide new features in their software besides fixing bugs? We'll never know. So far, Classe and Krell hasn't provided much upgradability to their prior processors. They are not likely going to throw in new surround algorithms because they were not the ones that wrote them.

It's like looking at a F1 car and not seeing multi-memory power/massaging seat or leather lined foot-well and complaining about it.

okay guys - enough with the car analogies. let's just assume they aren't working and try something else. :-)

doody.

Pete said this a little while ago:

Having had opportunity to compare head to head Krell's HTS-7.1 (US$8K) and Meridian's 568.2MM there is no question which processor sounds better to me.

If you are buying processors based on features included, then by all means, you should stick with something along the lines of the Krell Showcase or Classe` pieces. The Krell especially has some great features they shoved into the case, and the silver exterior is very attractive.

If your goal is to chose which one does the best job sonically, then I think the question is answered handily as to where the choice should be made.

Speculation mode on
Perhaps an updated 561 (maybe a 561.2) is in the works, I have no idea what is or isn't being worked on at Meridian. This would allow them to have a product in the $4K range.
Speculation mode off

Regards,

I believe Mr. Iwang hit it on the nail. The 561, 565, or 568 version 1 still beat the pants off the krells, classe, or thetas sonically because of Meridian's work/research in the digital field. It has the best algorithms bar none and they are included in every Meridian processor and thats what we pay for. not upgradeability, no pass-thru or other bells and whistles. By the way Mr. Doody, you must own an 861 and drive a Yugo, which is not a bad way to go.

mig007,

Meridian processors are known for their upgradability also, and they have a pretty good record on that, with their 565 processor lasting 8 years or so in the market. Of course, buying a processor purely for its potential upgradability would be completely pointless if its sound is not up to par with the competitors. It might make one hang on to their POJ unit instead of finally putting the beast to rest.

I agree, whats the point in having all these wonderful feature if your not going to use them. When I got the 568 it instantly put me in a happy place, then came the 596, what joy! I'm still lusting after a 861, but I really need to borrow one for home before I buy (I know it's better but how much better than the 568). This is my problem no dealer will lend me one (because there are only two dealers in the London area) and they only have one each in their demo rooms and are therefore not keen to loan. Plus with the config I have (3 5000's and 5 analouge) they would almost certainly have to add a card or something.

What to do? What to do?

Martin.

Thanks everyone for your feedback. It makes me feel better about my 561!