Happened to be in Harrods at the weekend and they had 2 F80`s on display (1 red and 1 Black)

One of the F80`s was hooked up to a 28” LCD playing a music concert type DVD across a composite connection, with volume at about 20. Indeed, the F80 was partially behind the LCD and I had almost walked past it before I realised what it was

The F80 settings were set at “Floor”, Width at 2, Bass at +10 and Tilt at 0??????? I moved the F80 out from behind the LCD, found a CD and then played around with the settings until I got the best match for where they had it on display. I turned the volume up to 65 and then left it alone. I did all this without any salesman asking me any questions.

The other F80 was on display and did not have a power cord connected, therefore people could not hear it. I managed to find the power cord, power it up and play a CD. Again I played with the settings until I got the best match and turned it up to 65.

It was interesting to then see a number of people walk up to both machines, listen and nod approvingly.

While I wish that Meridian would spend more time on their higher end equipment, I fully comprehend the business and “name recognition” case for the F80. If I was Bob Stuart, Harrods would be one of first places I would put such a product given the number of people from all round the world who go there expecting to see and hear the best.

However, for all the same reasons, I would make DAMN sure that they were set up properly to give of their best when people saw them. Showing a DVD at low volume on a 28” LCD is obviously not showing the strengths of the F80 and as for not having one connected..........

By all means, put them there on display, but don`t rely on ignorant sales people to display them. Go the extra mile and make sure they are set up properly. Train at least 1 of the people (for free) on how to set them up. Just make the extra effort. Don`t make the shipment and then “hope they sell”. Insane!!


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