This is in my personal view a retrograde step.

I purchased my first Meridian kit 20 years and 15 years ago, all from official dealers. 5 years ago the forum helped me back into buying Meridian equipment. I purchased an MC200 and MS200 from Premium partners, and speakers from Reuben. Buying in this way made the process affordable. Now, having appreciated the DSP sound, I'd like a pair of 7200.2 and will buy them one day.

I am just about to buy my son a pair of DSP5000, which he desires after hearing mine bought from Reuben. Another future customer is born.

This process of rebuilding familiarity with Meridian would just never have happened for me without the interim step of independent dealers.

There is another aspect to consider, and that is used product pricing. A healthy and transparent trade in second hand Meridian gear gives me the confidence to purchase, knowing the purchase will retain a certain value if I later upgrade. Independent dealers play an important part in this process as I was offered a six month guarantee when buying my first DSP speakers. I believe we all (including Meridian itself and the Premium Partners) benefit from an open and clearly accessible second hand market.

Mat

Sitting Room: 7200SE, 218
Kitchen-Dining: M6, 210
Roon-Tidal MQA, HiRes HDD