I have just had my 861v6 converted to an 861v8. In 861v8 guise it gives a striking improvement in clarity to vocals on film or tv etc. which for me is very welcome. Bangs and explosions also appear more dynamic and dramatic. There appears to be more work for the sides and rears without sound from those directions being intrusive or artificial. One clear result is that ambient sounds are more fully present so that the overall sound field is better integrated and more immersive. The whole effect is somehow richer, like moving up to a better and more mature wine, with a more complex and mature flavour (this makes a change from the usual car analogies). Meridian claim a significant improvement in sound quality and for me that claim is justified.

Now for something a bit more fanciful and speculative, where I probably say something foolish. Is it possible that the cleaner power supply of the 861 is pushing back less contamination into the mains and adjacently connected products? Maybe I am just imagining it but picture quality also seems to have improved, with sharper definition and more detail.

Well done Meridian. And also well done Sevenoaks Exeter who provided a superb service as part of the upgrade: no-one could have been more conscientious.

[my system comprises Oppo 93, 5k2VC, 8k x 4, 5k2 x 2 and D2500]

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