Meridian Unplugged - Powered by MrTechGuy.co.uk Forums Discussion Meridian - Streaming Linear Power Supply Meridian 218

Subjectively the 818v3 is cleaner, most noticeable to me in the bass/lower mid: this is running in the 5200SE + DSW (2.1) system streaming (ID41) Tidal through Roon (did not test the G08 or 500v3).

Depending on the Recording/resolution the 218 very close (sometimes more pleasant), higher resolutions the 818v3 seemed to sound cleaner/more resolving.

As default the 218 LPS is running the main system, sadly the 818 does not fit in the shelf. Standard 218 to LPS 218 was a big improvement; 218 LPS vs 818v3 is less so.

More superficially; No loud relay clicks on resolution change and a Very small footprint (active minimalism), wins for the 218 LPS.

My 218 build used a Power One medical MB12-1.7a with a double filter schneider IEC fused plug ~ hardwired directly with shielded servo power cable into the 218 pcb (no connectors).

Could most likely mod it a bit, but the power one has some decent parts and very good regulation.

The system is connected to a Triplite 2400, for filtering and sag protection (we have lots of power dips, not ideal).

Roon set up is not ideal ~ an AP on my wireless provided the hardwired connections and runs on my windows PC for the moment... Will try for some CD testing this weekend!

Interesting choice of PSU! I have been looking at lab power supplies to power audio equipment, but the top ones are very expensive. I like the idea of going directly to the pcb without connectors too. Might need to try that as well. I like my 218 also because you can control it with an app, giving the whole system a modern feel.

On the roon implementation: I have heard improvements from moving the core to a separate machine, but never any impact on where the core is in the network. Also the PSU doesn't seem to matter. I have a LPS on it for peace of mind, but could not tell the difference.

Curious what your final verdict is between the 818v3 and 218 LPS for roon via speakerlink.

Regards,
D

For all Dc-modded 218 owners with Farad3 PSU's. Farad is now offering upgrades to the Magnetic Circuit breaker version (TMCB) of the PSU.

They also offer optional exchange of the capacitor banks (2 different classes in the PSU) if you want to have that NEW capacitors feeling, though you will be billed for it ofcourse.

Mine is currently on this upgrade. And yes, Mattijs noticed that I dimmed the LED with tape so he is also adding a newer LED that is more 'matte'.

Farad Super3 TMCB Upgrade Link

Dimmed LED with tape here too

I have done the TMCB upgrade and I think it did improve the sound a little bit.

Mattijs upgraded my super 3 as well so it’s up to the latest spec. Service was excellent, but I still have the bright LED...