Meridian Unplugged - Powered by MrTechGuy.co.uk Forums Discussion Meridian - Systems DSP6000 Firmware Version Notes

Forgive any ignorance, but I’ll ask the obvious question. If a defective E2 PROM is the problem, how hard is it to replace?

These are the firmware note I could dig up:

DSP6000 Product Firmware Release 5.40 (2011-10-31)

Software Fixes - Useful - May be useful to upgrade but not essential
Aux legend becomes SLS and VCR3 legend becomes Aux
Aux/SLS source defaults to 4C comms type
Optional support for M80 remote
Improved processing resolution
Better integration with two way speakers in theatre systems
Crossover improvements

DSP6000 Product Firmware Release 5.20 (2007-11-16)

Software Fixes - Useful - May be useful to upgrade but not essential
Improved crossover.

DSP6000 Product Firmware Release 5.10 (2006-08-02)

Software Fixes - Useful - May be useful to upgrade but not essential
Volume control responds according to system address - relevant to some two-room systems.
Latency through DSP speakers unified at 7.5ms.

Bruce,

Thank you. This is the information I was looking for. From the description, it does look like there were changes that would affect sound quality. Is there any chance you would have notes for the earlier releases?

Regards,

Russell

IMHO a key point in Bruces reply is. Not being essential. I have three versions of DSP6000. The difference between the 18 bit and the 24/96 version 5.2 and 5.4 is negligible. In fact depending on the recording sometimes I think that I may prefer the 18bit units. I would not sweat the differences in FW. You have a great set of speakers that were once considered Class A for quite a period. Enjoy the MUsic!

That’s quite a collection of 6ks that you have there! And interesting what you say about the differences in versions.

+1

I wouldn’t read too much into “not essential “. There was one particular firmware update which made a big difference to the bass. Crossover changes can be significant. I’ve upgraded several pairs, no issues. Very surprised to hear Mark’s comments.

I too am surprised, but then I see a lot less of these speakers than Mr Koval!

OTOH, I have never heard any version of 6Ks sound anything less than spectacular. If you love them as they are and don’t want to risk updating, I don’t think you’re missing much.

These kinds of issues apply to any old, second-hand price of electronic equipment or indeed machinery. Think of them a little like classic cars - you’re getting something which once cost very serious money on the cheap and they will still outperform most hifi on the market, but the flip-side is they are likely to need maintenance if this hasn’t already been recently carried out and once they’re no longer under warranty or supported by the manufacturer, the risk is yours should you wish to update them. Drivers for these have been NLA for a while now too.

If you want that kind of performance but with complete compatibility and reliability you need to buy into new gear.

Agree, these are really wonderful speakers and a real bargain on the used market. I think the 6000s are the best of the legacy DSPs, and the biggest improvement in the sound comes from fresh caps on the amp boards (which you already did).