Meridian Unplugged - Powered by MrTechGuy.co.uk Forums Discussion Meridian - Systems 11717 days later.

Hi guys.. coronavirus pushed me to madness.. after decades of Pure Digital sources I bought an entry level turntable (AT-LP5x) and started to play with it.

First I decided to connect it on my vintage system, a still perfectly working Meridian 207+263+M60MkII.

It's the first time I connect a turntable to the 207.. Since I bought it (March 1989), the system performed flawlessly for ELEVEN THOUSANDS SEVEN HUNDREDS and SEVENTEEN DAYS but the phone input have never been used until today.
Actually I have a strong feeling warranty is expired... :-)

I bypassed the phono stage in the turntable connecting it to Phono input but the output signal is really low. A CD plays loud and clear as usual but Phono signal can barely be heard at maximum volume.

Looking to the manual I realised 207's Phono cartridge amp can manage both MM and MC with an undocumented switch under the bonnet.

Maybe the Phono stage is too old to perform perfectly? Some components out of range?
Maybe the switch is in the wrong position? I'm playing an MM cartridge.

If I move the turntable connectors to 'Line' input and I switch on the turntable's onboard phono amplifier all sounds OK. Output is not so strong as the CD but it's acceptable.

Can someone help me finding something more about 207's phono stage?
Maybe someone had a similar issue?

Grazie and STAY HOME!

Mauro

Actually I didn't use the system everyday but considering it have never been refurbished I am impressed by the quality of this little brick.

Hello

Your 207 probably doesn't have the phono module installed. It was an option. The input plugs are still labelled "Phono" but it is actually a line level input.

You can plug your phono stage into it.

Neil

As above, there was a 215 module, but not a lot of information exists about it!

How are you using a 263 with a 207?

All the best,

Steve

Ciao Steve.

Actually now it's unplugged as the 201 and 204. Let me check, maybe it was connected to 201. Not sure.

M

Ciao Neil.
Oh, this explains the mystery...

I have also a 201 (now unplugged).

Do you remember if phono module was standard on the 201?

THANKS!

M

I think the 215 was a module for the 201 too and factory fitted, set to MM.

All the best,

Steve

On a separate note, I’d like to hear more about your Low SPL System:

Quad 2905 (LCR), ESL63 (rear)

I once tried a trio of ESL57 with a fellow HH member (MI’) just to see how Trifield would sound, we came to the conclusion that the ‘57s imaged so well that stereo sounded better; the centre’s treble panel did need a service though.

All the best,

Steve

Hi

The module was an option for the 201 as well. They are interchangeable.

Neil

Ciao Steve
Yes I have been absolutely happy with this system. All these panels created a so good and unique bass that a sub is not needed and clarity is astonishing.
It's a fantastic system for Jazz, that's the music I love the most.
Unfortunately the system (for space constraint) have been boxed a couple of years ago and I think all panels need to be rebuilt.
Need to find time and money to manage all this. Now I think the system cannot be installed again if not after a rebuild of all the panels and this is pretty annoying.

Let's see.

M