Meridian Unplugged - Powered by MrTechGuy.co.uk Forums Discussion Meridian - Systems DSP - 5000s or 3100

As a compromise with SWMBO I have agreed to change my DSP5K Center Speaker for a 3100 C.

We only have a small room (12' x 12') and, with the 5KC in front of the Plasma, 'Nearest & dearest' cannot change channels on the TV, from where she sits.

After trialing the 3100C for 2 weeks she now thinks "How nice it would be" for us to have 3100s to replace the DSP5000 L,R as well. I'm not for it myself, however it would create synergy between L,R & C and they also compare favourably with my DSP33 rears.
I also have to take into acount the upgrades I have planned for later in the year that I have yet to mention to her.

Anyway, what's the general feeling ? .

Would I miss my DSP5Ks and regret the change ?
or
Would I, (bearing in mind the size of the room) - be relatively happy with the 3100s and with the added 'Brownie Points' from 'SWMBO' ?

Do I smile, agree in admiration and tell her what a great idea she's come up with. :rolleyes:
or
Do I stand my ground and go cruisin' for a bruisin'.



BTW. I'm not 'Under the thumb', but don't tell her that I said so.

Holtz'.

Dear Holtz,

Personally I think you should immediately tell your wife about your future upgrade plans. After all (Honesty is the best policy) and having met her, she seems very pleasant and understanding to me! Obviously the DSP 5000`s have more bass weight and presence than the 3100`s but sometimes for the sake of marital bliss a compromise is the best bet and in your case I would smile and tell her what a great idea she`s come up with. In fact why don`t you sit down and plan your future upgrade plans together? After all I do!!! Ho Ho

Nick

What about suggesting to your supervisor of happiness that a nice DD-10 be tucked away in an aesthetically acceptable manner to flesh out the 3100's. The electronic equalization of the sub might help tame room modes, which I assume are a bit of a challenge with a square room.

Nick (pughy1957):

You would recommend the 3100's, especially as I would be getting them from you.
Also, it was because of my mistake of bringing her into the shop, and her listening to all your Bul*s*it, -
- that she gained some 'inside knowledge' of our hobby.
Obviously you didn't do too good a job on her though as her appreciation of the 'Meridian Line' still only extends as far as Greenwich.


See you Monday.
Rgds .... H'.

...............................................................................

isb:

A 'Sub' is on the cards as a possible future upgrade
BTW. Would the DD-10 double as a compact dining table ? If so, that may help my cause.


Holtz'.

Yes, it would. It also have a nice blue night-lamp if the ordinary lighting should suddenly break down, and the EQ software could serve as a makeshift video game.

When I think about it, a DD-10 is a little TOO compact for a dining table. At least a DD-12, possibly even a DD-15 would be better. If you have a lot of friends and a large family - get a DD-18.

[image deleted]

If the subwoofer cabinet is sufficiently dead, which I asssume would be the case for Velodyne's DD line, I suppose you could have a glass top made for the size table you'd like. Sorbothane feet inbetween might be of benefit. A couple of concerns that I'd have would be that the best location for smoothing out the in room response of lower frequencies might not be optimal for the coffee table location, and errant feet might damage the driver(s).

Cheers, Ian

Holtz!

For my ears I would stick with the DSP5K`s as main L&R.

DSP5K`s have a much better bass extension and are more relaxed.

The DSP3100`s are OK on first impressions but after extended listening periods I find they become fatiguing and hash with a muddled bass line.

Holtz! You are a man with a good head on his shoulders and a good ear for quality sound and I know you will make the right decision in the end.

Please let us know what you finally decide to do.

Mike

Well thanks to all who replied:

I have now finally decided to go with the DSP3100C only.
I find it can adequately replace the DSP5000C, in my room, with a smaller footprint and very little to no 'downside' that I can detect.
So, I will now have DSP5000Mk2 L&R, DSP3100 Center & DSP33's at the rear. This will work (for me).

Shortly I am buying an 861 processor, this will replace my 568.2MM, and then 'POSSIBLY' a G98 to follow, (replacing my 598DP).
The latter (G98) however may need to be given a little more thought though, bearing in mind that 'Cheapo' just maybe the way to go for a while, as stopgap.

Do I go for the G98, or should I join Mr.& Ms. 6pk. on the couch untill the dust settles and the future (DVD) path determined ?


Cheerz all.
Holtz'.

Holtz,

With the kit you've got I'd recommend finding a good deal on a second hand G98. Trying not to break the rules the prices 2nd hand make it a worthwhile investment as you'll be hard pressed to find something that will match it in terms or audio for both CD and DVD (+DVDA) & of course video for sd is very competitive. I imagine it will hold its own in these departments for some time to come and with the latest firmware it appears to be pretty stable.

I would not recommend a new one however, especially if you are keen to keep on top of the new technologies - its simply too much for the lifespan.

Hope this helps a little.

Simon

Simon:

I am trialling a G98 at present and agree wholeheartedly with you, it is quite some piece of equipment.
To my mind it completely blows away my 598, for audio, and of course has wider scope for video output. Hey, it even looks better, very good for the WAF.

Through the G98 the DVD 'House of Flying Daggers' was mindblowing. Fine detail, rich colours with realistic and precise audio. Totally absorbing.

I have been really impressed with the G98's overall performance, so far, and have to admit to feeling very tempted.

Have I got more than a little mesmerised with a 'new toy' here or, should I just 'Go for it' and deal with tomorrow when it comes ???


Holtz'.