Philip
Curiosity: Why are you planning to upgrade your D8k.1's to the D8k.2??

Having spoken to Bob at HH2 (and several other since then) the two main changes made to the D8000.2 are

a) The New Apodizing Filter

b) Speakerlink RJ45 Connectivity

Given that Apodizing is due to be released in a new Firmware version for the D8k.1's and that even by Meridian's own admission, the Balanced Digital Connection that Speakerlink allows for a very marginal improvement (at best), I wonder if this is even a remotely worthwhile change??

In addition, given that you will have the Apodizing already in the 808.2, the extra Apodizing in the D8k.2's will be largely wasted, especially if you also incorporate an HD621 for Bluray (which I would STRONGLY recommend by the way)

Seems like a lot of hassle (and likely cost!!!) for VERY marginal improvements (at best.) Equally, you have the other hassle of Rewiring your entire room!!! While this is not "strictly" necessary with AC11 Speakerlink panel, any marginal benefits which MIGHT comes from the Balanced Digital connection would be lost without recabling with Cat5 or Meridian Speakerlink cable

If you are going to do it, I would send a Pair at a time, for lots of reasons!!! In addition, even if I was tempted, I would likely only Upgrade the Front Pair.

Also, have you checked with Meridian whether they will do the Upgrade by taking back the Rear Speaker Panel ONLY??? They did this in the past when offering 96/24 Upgrades to the D5k's; D6k's and D5500's.

If they did offer this, then it would be FAR less costly than transporting the D8k's from Cyprus to the UK and back again (My Cheque Book just fainted sleep sleep wink )

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