George and all: Reading this thread, I'm getting confused and I'm concerned at the message we're giving to Alzigorilla.

If Alzigorilla considers DSP3100's, why would he need a digital preamp for a stereo pair? Assuming CD/DVD front end, he'd connect via SPDIF into the master speaker, I think. That's how my first pair of DSP5000's were set up.

Alzigorilla, if you're looking at WB Arcs and B&W 805's, the Meridian option is a complete change for you. Despite the sheer elegance and engineering pragmatism of Bob Stuart's message, if you don't like the sound of M's speakers, they won't be any good for you. If you do like them, you can sell your exisiting preamp and amp and plug your digital player straight into one of the 3100's with Meridian Comms managing the connection to the other.

As George says, M make some active, analogue, speakers where you would use your preamp but not your amp. I think these are all older designs (I'm unfamiliar with the M3100 and the info on M's site points to other speakers, so I can't look it up). I'd urge you to be really careful about buying second hand if you have any doubt about the sound characteristics you are buying.

That's my understanding - I'd really recommend you spend a few hours reading all the data sheets and white papers you can find on M's site, then use Cliff's advice and let your ears decide.

Hope I've got this right and it's helpful.

Steve

Steve