CVV, Crion :

Yes, you are both correct. The lack of an upgrade path, within the 'G' series, has affected the way Meridian equipment is now viewed. That is why the 500 series proved to be so popular.

Meridian have always been renown for their leadership and build quality at the cutting edge of digital Hi-Fi. Unfortunately Meridian is a small company, with a niche market, and so cannot respond to marketing trends as immediately as the larger, highly financed, companies.
Technology nowadays moves at so fast a pace that only the major brands can afford to go with all the hit and miss of the latest designs in progress. Therefore it stands to reason that M's future movements in the marketplace will only surface once a firm direction has been decided upon.
They may not be able to stay ahead of the game, by the margins, as before but will surely remain innovative at whatever they produce. We just have to remain patient and not jump in, with both feet, each time progress raises its head. After all, this is our Meridian forum and we should be 'biggin' em up' not running them down. IIRC one member even forecast Meridians demise within the next 2/3 years. There's faith for you.

Although my thread starter refers to Meridian equipment in general most of what has been said here has been aimed at M's CD/DVD players. Because of the introduction of the music server I realise that the CD player may in fact warrant a separate argument.

( I've only just come back on line and so consequently some of my views have already been covered).
Holtz'.