Meridian Unplugged - Powered by MrTechGuy.co.uk Forums Discussion Meridian - Systems Meridian G08: Sound bad using Rca instead of XLR?

Hi guys,

I want to buy a Meridian G08 but several owner told me that when using it with RCA interconnect cables the player sound no as good than when using it with balanced xlr interconnect cables.

Is it true? I am asking because my amplifier (a Bryston B100 SST) doesn't have balanced connections so I am worried I would end with a marvellous CDP used only at 50% of his capabilities.

Have you found this to be true? What's the reason? I thought whit XLR the only differences should have been 6db more without any effect on the sound quality.

Thanks

Nicola

Hi Nicola,

I have tested both outputs in the same rig (the input gain on the single-ended pre-amp input was a little more than 6 dB if I recall). Subjectively speaking, most of the time the louder sounding source will seem to be better - which is not necessarily objectively true . After testing I am now using XLR, but I would not say the difference was dramatic. If your player will be seated close to the amp then I think you should not bother too much, as balanced interconnects tend to show their advantages over longer cable runs.

Curious how the G08 will sound paired with the Bryston.

Cheers,
Dorian

Nicola,
G-08 sounds very good via RCA.

regarding rca-xlr comparision - i did it on 588.
they sounded a bit different with a no clear winer.
RCA was more mellow and musical, XLR was less so but more dynamic.

keep in mind that those changes are depend also on sound differencies between PREs or different inputs of the same PRE.

I've compared single ended to balanced on the G08 with my balanced integrated amp, level matched, using the same brand cable. The major differences I found was that the sound via the balanced connection had more air at the tops, more three dimensional images and greater detail. These differences aren't huge in scale, but put together they make the experience more enjoyable for me. I found no difference in perceived "musicality" and I could happily live with either but I choose to stick with balanced.

Cheers,

Craig.