I agree with you all in principle about the 808.3, but I don't have the extra �2500 over and above the 808i.2 - unless anyone feels like supporting the purchase wink

I've gone for an 808i.2 I just placed a deposit on one, after all the options discussed here I am convinced it's the best I can do for my needs and preferences anywhere near my current budget. All my collection is on CD and it's likely to be that way for some time. If/as hi-res takes over I'll start considering a move into Sooloos, which will doubtless be a more mature product, or will have come down in price on the second hand market, but I'm sure I'll still want to spin discs as it's still my preference.

It also has the preamp inputs I need to route all other sources through (and make use of a very good DAC!) And if I ever put it in an analogue system, the analogue outs are said to be very fine smile

Really though, thanks for all your help; this thread has taken me from Meridian newby to someone who at least vaguely understands what's out there and is already enjoying a very nice sound from 5Ks, soon to be joined by what I hope will be a fine 808.2!


HC: 861v4/ID40/LPS, DSP5000, DSP5000VC, DSP3100, SW1600, HD621, Oppo BDP-105, Sony VPL-HW55ES
2-Channel: Oppo BDP-105, TEAC VRDS-7/Trichord Clock 3/PSU, 551, Quad 303, Harbeth Compact 7ES-3, Kimber cables, Russ Andrews mains and supports.
Previous Meridian: 5000C, 5200SL, 7200.2, 6000, 562V.2, 568.2mm, 800v4, 808.2i, 818v2/v3, 861v8, 502