Meridian Unplugged - Powered by MrTechGuy.co.uk Forums Discussion Meridian - Systems F80

That clinches it, I'll take two :-)

Quick question, which today's episode of BBC's Working Lunch prompted me to ask... The DAB tuner in the F80, is it compliant with the impending DAB+ spec? (which is AAC based if memory serves).

I don't know the answer to your question, but from recollection, Bob dismissed the chances that the BBC would ever can the current standard and move to something else. I got the impression that he felt that, for the UK, too much was invested in the current standard.

But reading between the lines, and not knowing anything about DAB what so ever, I would guess that the DAB functionality would be programmable so could be changed, if it is not already dual standard already for use outside the UK.

I saw that item too. You can find detailed information on the demise of the present MP2-based DAB system, here:

http://www.digitalradiotech.co.uk/a...will-be-obsolete-in-a-few-years-time.php

Just because Bob Stuart doesn't believe the present DAB system will disappear doesn't provide a cast-iron guarantee that it won't.

However, I read somewhere that even one of the recently introduced BUSH DAB radios can be software upgradeable to receive the DAB+ system when it eventually arrives. Equally, I'm sure I saw some unconfirmed information recently that indicated that Meridian DAB products could be equally software upgraded to the new standard.

On a separate issue of interest - the BBC are apparently going to start trialling DRM (Digital Radio Mondiale) on the Oxford transmitter in the near future. So, in addition to DAB, we may eventually hear FM-quality stations on MW.

If you want DAB Quality , Listen to 'thejaz'.
Its a low bit rate transmittion, in Mono but using the latest Codecs and it sounds fabulouse!

Bob even mentioned its quality.

So there is no reason to change as it can be done well with what we already have.

I contacted 'Pure' about his very issue and they dissmised it.
The Millions of obsolet expensive radios would cause a riot and undermine consumer confidance. IMHO

Cheers, Chris

The Latest Link to what the press say.

http://www.homecinemachoice.com/cgi-bin/shownews.php?id=9073

Cheers, Chris

How shielded is it? Could it rest on a hotel/motel/rental CRT?

Has anyone heard yet when the F80 will actually hit the shelves of our friendly Meridian dealers?

C'mon Chris. While we would expect that it would sound better than your average shelf system, I think we can have some idea of its limitations. Is there really any doubt that any of us can take $3k and build a system that blows a device this small away? You won't get the DSP, but in terms of pure fidelity, a superior amp, speakers and front end can easily be acquired for $3k without the inherent limitations of this small, single box solution. If it is as great as you suggest, then wouldn't that canibalise into Meridian's sales of higher end products, and wouldn't we see them abandon stereo systems for higher end F90, F100 systems? I don't think that any of use will be trading in our dedicated systems for F80s. Not that I think that this is what Meridian is suggesting. I just think that your comments about performance are exaggerated. I don't even expect my G68ADV to last a lifetime.

KIS, I say again, You have to listen!!!!

Its not going to be your Main system unless you live in a very small place. Then it could be.

Your going to use it when on Holiday, or in your conservatory or office, outside with a BBQ amongst friends (Invites accepted) on a late summers evening, in your bedroom to acompany a small LCD, whatever; you choose. Anywhere you have a mains connection will do.

Like anything else in this world, if you look for faults, you will find them. However, if you look for the good, you get to find that too.

Life's more fun looking for the good. IMHO

I notice that none of the people who heard the F80 suggested I was going too far. Clue there, I should say.

Life? Keep it Simple, Cheers, Chris

I have a doubt...

Initially my response to the launch of the F80 was highly sceptical. Having now watched Bob's various presentations (www.engineeredtoexcel.com) I find my interest increasing in what pertains to be a major engineering achievement. A radio with a Ferrari monocoque - fantastic. Now I haven't actually heard it but, somewhat perversely, I find myself wanting to own one of these as a trophy of excellence (though hopefully more reliable and less life threatening than the Harley-Davidson I have always coveted).

Of course I wouldn't expect it to replace my main system, but as a high quality background listening device and talking point whilst entertaining, who knows. Actually, that sounds kind of boring and might even tempt stray fingers, god forbid. Maybe, IF I did buy one, I will just keep it to myself.

Jezclayton