I have just ripped some CD's. Whilst I did it I looked at several of the 'liner notes', some of which were a good read with background information about the artist, who played on the recording, lyrics etc. This, IMHO, is the only drawback with server based music, in fact we seem to be going backwards - LP covers were better than CD's for this. If a way can be found to include this level of detail on digital files I for one wouldn't be overly upset if CD's went the way of all flesh - assuming full quality downloads are generally available.

Linn had to change their strategy anyway. With the advent of computer based storage the 'rubbish in rubbish' out argument is no longer a good reason to pay a premium price for a source of recorded music - what happens on the way to our ears is. Whether by luck or judgement Meridians expertise in digital speakers & signal processing puts them in a good position in this 'new(ish) world'. For example I have just spent over �3.5k on a processor & 4 speakers (all 2nd hand). The sources (airtunes & an 2nd hand Oppo) cost less than �200. That ratio of expenditure would have been considered lunacy 20 years ago, but I am very happy with the results, even though I am sure it would sound a little shabby compared to some of the systems owned by the people on here.

My suspicion is that the market for ultra expensive front ends will shrink dramatically as relatively low cost units become increasingly capable of delivering sophisticated, bit-perfect information. The value will lie in how this information is processed & delivered to our ears/ eyes.

568.2mm, DSP33x2, DSP5000C, M60x2, D1500x2, HD621, LG G3, Sony UBPX800-M2, F80.