I hope this information isn't 100%...

With an all DSP - but old SPDIF connections and no peakerlink - the quoted trade-in to speakerlink and Balanced Analogue outs makes no sense for me. I definitely don't need the analogue outs and will have to purchase 3 AC12s (and one or more new main distribution blocks to plug everything into).

What's the point of a modular system and then pre-defining the configuration?

I'm hoping it will be possible to configure the new 861 to match my actual requirements.

Unfortunately there have been so many announcements in recent days which seem to be contradictory (I'll let you construct your own list but I can think of at least 3). I think until Meridian actually publish a statement and deliver the new items and upgrades/trade-ins we are still dealing with speculation no matter how certain everyone is of their information.

2 cents

Chris

Lounge/Cinema, Trinnov, DSP8000XE, 4x 320.2 in-ceiling, M6 rear, 2x DSW.2
Roon Nucleus+ and 320.2 in-ceiling in many rooms (KEF in-ceiling in bathrooms)
Spare: DSP5000, 598, 562v2, 500Mk2, 518, 519, 504, 101B, M3, 861v4, 800 DVD, MS600, MC200