I think that Meridian's strength has always been its audio processors and DSP loudspeakers. The sources are just too expensive and are equalled IMO - or bettered - by much cheaper options. The all-digital DVD-Audio solution is pretty special however.
If I had to describe the Meridian sound I would say it is detailed and natural, which is of course probably the highest compliment I could pay it. The pieces of kit I've owned and have been particularly impressed with are the following:
- 551 integrated amp. Excellent control over my old passive Castles. Not bad for an "entry level" amp.
- 518 digital preamp and 24-bit 566 DAC combination. For me the secret is the combination which results in a remarkably detailed sound. The ability to add a few dB of digital gain to a source, in order to present the DAC a full a dynamic range signal, is no gimmick.
- 561 processor. Detail extraction from movie bitstreams quite incredible.
- DSP33 speakers. At �550 per speaker, this is an unbelievable second-hand bargain. Oodles of multi-layered detail and dynamic effortlessness. Stunning bass extension from the enclosure size if you use them as a lone stereo pair.
- G68 processor. Last but not least. I really can't fault this in terms of performance. The de-jittering is so good, to my ears a �200 Squeezebox or Oppo DVD player sound as good for CD as my 598 did. Like the 561, the detail extraction is exceptional. I'd like a few additional features to enhance useability, but hey...
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