Meridian Unplugged - Powered by MrTechGuy.co.uk Forums Discussion Meridian - Systems G68 reality check

I recently substituted an Audio Aero Prima DAC II for the G68 that generally fronts my Llano tube/ss hybrid amps and VMPS RM40 speakers. The Audio Aero, which listed at $5500 (got it used for less than half that) is an immediately clear step up from the G for music --the portrayal is deeper in every way; soundstage, extension, and bottom-line involvement. It's livelier and more organic sounding.

It will be hard to go back to the G68. Anybody heard both the 861 and G68? Heard them in the same system? Is the 861 a significant jump up for music? For my own convenience and to keep some peace in the relationship, I'd like to stick with a one box solution.

Thoughts anybody?

I think there is consensus that the 861 DACs are better than the G68 DACs. How much better, I don't know.

As a matter of interest, what DSP mode on G68 are you comparing to the Aero Prima?

Cliff

Direct, although I often used Trifield and Stereo w/the G68.

Are you comparing apples and apples here ?

If the Audio Aero is a DAC only then you'd expect for the ���/$$$ that it should sound pretty good. Of course it can be compared to a G68, but, is MRC involved, are the levels identical, what are the presets doing etc etc.

I've done this type of comparison myself a few times before e.g. 598 direct to 8k's, SB3 direct, etc etc. The different levels and lack of processing, I concluded, meant that it was not a realistic comparison of which was better to do.

I think it was suggested a while back in another thread, that even in 'direct' preset there is some DSP going on.


None of the above is at all to suggest that you don't find one better to your ears...and arguably that's what ultimately matters no matter what apples we have.

Going by your logic - G68 HAS to sound better since it is doing lot more to make 2 Ch sound soo much better in the room - and it ain't so

rb- I compared 861v3 and G68 and found 861 to be superior for music (where I could dicern/listen for differences)..(like what you describe in your first post). That said--the G series can be improved/modded by upgrading its power supply.

Are we talking analogue outputs here?

It ain't the DACs, as they are the same

Analog Devices AD1872s if memory serves me correctly.

Yeah, the DACs are the same, either 1852s or 1853s, if memory serves. Don't know if the output stages are different or whatever else.

From a cost standpoint, the AA is more expensive given its functionality, but I think it's in the ballpark and not an unreasonable comparison.

I wouldn't be surprised if some DSP is going on in Direct -- M clearly believes DSP is the way to better sound. Direct doesn't necessarily equal 'purist' for them. MRC for me is a slight improvement -- I haven't spent a ton of time w/it -- but it doesn't change the fundamental character of the sound in my setup.

I did level match, and FYI, my G68 has an upgraded power supply which I find to be a subtle difference at best. Granted that I can't on-the-fly A/B the components, the AA is a significant upgrade to my ears. I'd love to plug in an 861 sometime -- I wasn't really looking to leave the M camp; from Trifield (and you guys!) on out, there's a lot I'd miss.

Oooooh. Very interesting!

RB:

It is AD1852s, good catch.

The 187xs are A/D convertors.

Cheers,

VK:

The software loads are pretty close as well.

The 861 has greater flexibility and obviously upgradability is in 861s favor.

I can't speak to power supply, output stage differences etc etc.

Cheers,