Meridian Unplugged - Powered by MrTechGuy.co.uk Forums Discussion Meridian - Systems New Meridian System DSP5200&G - Advise ?

Hey All of you

I'm a new member to this forum so I hope you can advise me on the etiquette if I go wrong.
I try to post some questions in hope that someone out there might ba able to give me some advise.

Being a long time Meridian addict - I broke the pact for a few years, but have found my way back the right path...
My new system is really starting to open up, but I am seeking some advise.
The system has been running more orless non-stop for three weeks now (not to many loud sessions - mostly running at between 65-70%)
As of now the system is built up with a G91DH (v1.81), DSP5200 and a DSP5200C and I'm waiting for a set of DSP3100.
The system works well in my room and I have few acoustical issues. I still miss a bit of open airedness and tightness in the bass.

1. Anyone tested out power cables and power distributors with any luck ??
I have been tampering around about
-Nordost - Vishnu and Thor distributor
or
-Chapter audio - new power cables
I heard the Vishnu on a 7000 set-up and they were fantastic, but I find thema bit on the pricy side...
The Chapter I heard was supposed to be quite strong at a reasonable price

2. How the h...l do you get og the grilles of the speakers ?
I am unable to tighten the drivers...
Silly question probably, but I have tried for weeks and they are not budging - Your advise would be much valued

hopefully some of you can help me.

Thanks
Harald

http://www.meridianunplugged.com/ubb/ultimatebb.php?ubb=get_topic;f=6;t=001378

Have a look here for starters.

Congratulations on the new kit!

Thank's for the thread.

I think the set-up will work well. And the "WAF" factor has made it all possible.

I was a long time contender for Sophia's, but girly was tired of "my temple" - she accepted the 52's ++, but the rack of gear was not acceptable...

NOW - how to get them to open up ???

Hmmmm....the obvious "get a bigger amp" isn't gonna work!

I'd better leave you to the all digital experts.
All 5200 front is great though

A few thoughts: It could just be time and a few more weeks will help, although I suspect not. The idea of using different power leads as tone controls might work but you really need to try different ones because only your ears can tell about the results.

Have you got a sub woofer or two in the system? It's worth trying a high crossover - 80Hz - to a mono sub (or stereo subs) and relieving the 5200s of bass delivery. That helped with my old 5000s.

Steve

Try raising the 5200's, as floor standing speakers alone they are too low. And add a sub of course.

Highlander,

here is what I can suggest:

1. The position of the speakers is essential because they interact with the room. Usually David Wilson`s set-up method works a treat (http://www.tnt-audio.com/casse/waspe.html). It might need a bit of practicing, but hey, it`s free. People often are surprised by the difference 5mm here or there can make.
2. Make sure your speakers are leveled perfectly by using a spirit level.
3. Make sure that all power cords are plugged in the same distribution block or power conditioner.
4. My personal (!) opinion is that the Nordost Thor does make a difference. And it`s by no means insignificant - sound-wise and picture-wise. It is not cheap but one of the cheapest power conditioners that really work. Being wired with Valhalla internally the Thor should be connected by a Nordost cable to the wall outlet. Due to their micro monofilament technology Nordost power cords work best if you have a complete Nordost loom. For me the Nordost stuff works very well (and I`ve tinkered quite a bit with power cords). If you`re looking for more warmth you should try the Brahma.
5. You can experiment with feet such as Harmonix (again, on the pricey side), finite elemente or Pulsar Points. Some of you Hitchhikers might not like this, but just like power cords they do make a difference.
6. The more thought and dedication you put into the system the better it`ll sound.
7. Keep an open mind and try before you buy!

Thanks for the advise from all of you.

Some comments and questions:
1. Time - deffinetly a factor - they are still improving and I actually expact at least one more week...
1.5 - do any of you have any idea how to get the [censored]' dust covers of the speakers... ???
2. I have raised them - They are mounted on "Base Technology" vibration platforms - works wonders and can deffinietly be recomended - if your speakers are not to heavy - then you need custom built(http://www.base-technology.no/).
3. I share your idea about conditioner and cords - I will deffinetly try out the Thor - and I agree - auditioning first....
4. Spirit level ????
Is that a laser based measurement - I have only used a "vater" so far.
5. At the moment i have a limited choice when it comes to power outputs and they are currently on a shared outlet.... I know - "the horror..."
6. Accoustic damping - nice, but poor girley - or me - not much support in that department... She don't like....

All in all though - I must say I am starting to be really impressed with the speakers and the system.

The sub idea - like it - have any of you auditioned the M-SW5500 ?
I am considering it - as you mention to cross it from 80Hz - that could and should open up the midrange - maybe get the "AIR" I'm missing.

Any other suggestions other then the 5500 - Velodyne ??

My room is about 30sqm (280sft) so I am a bit worried about going twin sub's - can only try it out, but pointers are most welcome.

Thank you again guys.

Harald

No doubt this is also to do with your aclimatisation to what you are now hearing as much as any electical "bedding in"

I'm sure some folks here may know more about how the brain and ears work in this regard. (psycho-acoutical adjustments etc)

Harald-
Re: the SW5500; As Chris mentioned, I use one now with my 5200 setup; Both new subs from M- (SW1600,SW5200) are marked improvements from the old M- subs IMO. No bottoming out as before and voiced much better to match the M- DSP line.

They have a tight bass as you would expect from M-, but also really put out when called on; They have more output than any other non-ported sub I've heard (I also like the Velodyne subs by the way);

One note of caution; the SW5500 is a bit overmatched to the 5200s I think; If you are into lots of LFE for movies - it's perfect; but if you're goal is to get the best pure music system - 2 SW1600's will match the 5200dsp setup the best. Of course that will cost significantly more money - M- prices the SW5500 very attractively in comparison. I actually used 2 of them for a while and got fantastic results for pure music applications - 80Hz crossover (or even higher) opened up the 5200s just enough and gave me what I could barely distinguish from the 7000 series sound.

Either way - I would recommend the new M- subs for serious consideration, right along with Velodyne and some others; After that, it's all up to your individual ears!!!

Best-

ken

Harald,

Spirit level = bubble level, surveyor's level, water level

If seamless integration into the system's sound is what your after, I'd go for the Velodyne. The DD range offers a myriad of opportunities, you can even find the best place for your main speakers with the set-up programm. They come with a room equalisation system - up to 120Hz - and a very convenient auto set-up mode. You can also store up to 6 different presets, there's a remote control and a late night mode.

As a subwoofer Velodyne's DD series raknks among the very best woofers, what sets them apart IMO is the configuration and equalisation programm.

- m

Spirit Level, Dont Level your speakers unless thats how they sound best.

My Speakers Tilt Back a few degrees in a similar fashion to my M33c, and it all sounds great.

Lots of hieght and depth, what can I say?

As for accoustic treatment with a high WAF, think Cushions and more Cushions.

Think Chince, none of this minimalist nonsense.

You need wall to wall carpets, nice curtains and pelmets, book cabinets full of books, soft furnishings etc.

None of this is seen in the Meridian Broucure or Ikea, but it will IMHO save you a fortune on expensive upgrades, mains leads etc etc etc

I know, I have upset you all again, Sorry!

Happy Christmas, Chris