From the Meridian Spring 2010 newsletter: MMHR inputs on the G61R and G68 confirmed. Also confirmed, Meridian has rationalized to three processors only: 861v6, (a single) G68, and the G61R.

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Meridian Controllers - Now with SpeakerLink

The start of 2010 sees the launch of new versions of all three of Meridian`s Digital Surround Controllers, led by the 861 V6 shown above.

A common feature of the three units is their inclusion of SpeakerLink for direct connection to Meridian DSP Loudspeakers: in addition, the new versions of the G68 and the G61R see the rationalisation of the two G Series controllers. The three available controllers now offer a clear 3-tier product differentiation and distinct feature sets.

861 Version 6

The 861 is Meridian`s flagship Digital Surround Controller and has set the standard since its introduction in 1998. The 861 Version 6 confirms that position and adds significant new features that enhance the connectivity and functionality of the system.

SpeakerLink

The new 861 V6 includes both SpeakerLink inputs and outputs, for simple and effective connection to the latest Meridian DSP Loudspeakers and components.

Eight channels of SpeakerLink output are provided, meaning that all 861s will now support a Meridian Digital Theatre setup out of the box, saving cost and reducing complexity. SpeakerLink inputs are also provided, allowing direct connection to components such as the 808.3

MMHR

An eight-channel MMHR (Meridian Multichannel High Resolution) input is also provided, allowing a direct single-wire connection to an HD621 for the highest possible quality from HDMI-based sources such as Blu-Ray Disc players.

Sooloos Connectivity

The optional ID40 Sooloos Card allows the 861 V6 to render audio from a Meridian Sooloos digital media system. Control commands sent through the 861 can also be used to control the current Sooloos Play Queue.

The 861 can upsample and process the audio from the Sooloos system for the maximum quality, for example using upsampling or Trifield rendering technology, allowing full Sooloos integration into the Meridian Digital Theatre. The ID40 card also fits the new 808.3 CD Player.

There will be an upgrade programme allowing existing 861 owners to take advantage of the largest specifications.

G68

There are two big changes on the G68. One is that G68 now offers eight-channel SpeakerLink outputs - supporting a full Meridian Digital Theatre - along with two Meridian SmartLink inputs for DVD players and the HD621, thereby supporting the most common home theatre sources. The other development is the fact that there is now only one G68 version, containing all the most-requested features of the product, including multiple analogue and digital inputs including USB, dramatically simplifying specification and ordering of the G68.

G61R

The G61R, the best value Surround Controller in the Meridian product line, now also offers eight channels of SpeakerLink outputs, once again removing the need for an AC11 in new system specifications.

There are also two Meridian SmartLink inputs for best connection to Meridian DVD players and the HD621. In addition to replacing the previous version of the G61R, the new unit provides an effective replacement for some former G68 versions and allows an excellent introduction to Meridian with its support for both Meridian DSP and third-party passive loudspeakers.

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