Meridian Unplugged - Powered by MrTechGuy.co.uk Forums Discussion Meridian - Systems Meridian G68 or G61R

Hello Everyone, I'm a newbie to this forum. I have decided to jump into a Meridian. However, I'm undecided between both processors. Any feeback will appreciated.

Thanks

Jose

Are you looking new or second hand market? It will make a big difference to the answer.

Second hand wise, a G68 variant will probably give more bang for the buck as the G61r is more recent and more scarce and hence have a price premium over most G68's. The G61r also has the little used USB audio input that, due to their age, most G68's do not - not really a must have feature for most.

If buying new, the G61r is probably the better choice if you don't need any of the features of one of the G68 variants.

Otherwise, performance wise, they are identical. Feature wise, most G68's have more options (G68J excluded) hence need a taller case.

It really is a matter of checking what features you need and comparing prices and availability.

I'm looking for a new processor. I sold a Lexicon MC-12HD to get into a Meridian.

Thanks

jose

So if you are buying new, the other thing you have to consider is whether you need analogue speaker outputs. The new SL (SpeakerLink) G61R has single-ended outputs; the G68 SL has balanced outputs.

I have an option to use balanced or un-balanced cables. My plans are to later purchase front an rear DSP speakers. Im using a Sunfire Ampifier and B&W speakers (805 matrix).

Thanks

Jose

Jose,

If you're coming from a MC-12HD you really need to be considering a 861.
I'm not convinced that the G61RSL or G68SL will be enough of an upgrade ( if at all) in your current system.
Obviously if you intend to move onto DSP speakers at a later stage that can put a different slant on things and a G61RSL with HD621 + suitable Bluray player would then be an attractive package.
However, so would a 861.

regards
Gerry

I was considering the 861. However, its way out of my price range at this time.
I was informed that the Meridian G68 and G61R is comparable or better then lexicon.

Thanks

Jose

G68, 861V4, G61R will all sound the same with DSP Speakers (in my opinion).

Analog options will vary though. But if you did stick with analog you should stick with Balanced.

Lexicon makes good stuff. But Meridian is just very different. And DSP Speakers are a great option too, but not for everyone; most that have tried them, love them.

For Music Trifield sounds much more realistic/natural than any of the Processing modes Lexicon offers.

I will be using the processor for the main Home Theater.

B&W speakers (805 matrix), Sunfire Amp, Sony BD CX-7000 ES, 2 Panamax line conditioners, Dishnet HD, Velodyne dd-12 all controlled by Crestron.

Jose

If you need video or 2nd zone output, you'll need the G68. IF you're wired for balanced audio, stick with it and get the G68.

the 861 used market in america dried up right around the time the upgrade offer was announced ... Weinheart (Sp?) sold his personal 861 on audiogon right before the upgrade offer was announced, for example ...

I think for music, the Meridian (even the low-end models) will sound great - for HT, it is probably a wash. But judging from the posts on the Lex users forum, you will be happily surprised how well the HD621 works ... I know it brings a smile to my face when I fire it up!

If you want HDMI switching, you will probably have to invest in the HD621 as well as the processor (why didn't they put a coax sound input on the HD621 ? )

I dont need a second zone or component video (component video will possibly be obselete by the time I decide on a processor). I will be purchasing the HD61 HDMI with the processor I decide on. I want to make sure that I'm making the right choice.

Jose