I think at some point you say- this is very good and I am happy with it and I dont feel the need to make constant changes. Thats where I happen to be right now. You could say- well sure- thats a big invesetment so it makes sense.

In the future if M makes big updates to their components, they can be upgraded- albeit at a cost.

if you bought B&W speakers, and half way through the model life, they go to a new tweeter or new midrange, the only way to get that benefit would be to buy new speakers- so there is a cost there too.

I can tell you exactly when I "fell in love" with the 8000s- it was at the 2001 CES. My wife and I went to every booth we could and we thought the audio highlight was the Meridian setup- and thats in a booth at CES- not really the best sonic enviornment. I had subsequently demoed the 8000s at a local dealer and I was still impressed.

I wouldnt assume that the M D-As are "the best"- as with anything- there are usually a few options that could qualify as that. I do think Meridian qualifies as a leader in digital audio- in my mind they are probably the best in terms of soup to nuts.

But the bottom line is the queston was asked about opinion on these things and my opinion is they are great! Are there other options? sure. There are always pros and cons. The most important thing is to find those pros and cons that line up best with your needs and wants.

[This message has been edited by JerryL (edited 11-23-2003).]

Best regards,
Jerry
Main System: 861v6, DSP8000s in corners, DSP7000s Center and Sides, 1-9 humans.