Please note: All of this is purely speculation on my part. I'm not privy to inside information on this topic.

I can think of two ways Meridian could handle SACD.

A/D conversion:
Update to either 568.2 or 562v3 or even a standalone A/D box, with 6 channel + MHR input to handle multi-channel (up to 6) analog input. This would require software and hardware, with two additional A/D convertors so that all 6 channels could be digitized.

If this were to be in the 562v3 or standalone box, transfer would still be via MHR so it would be no different than output from a 598 Digital out unit.

If on the 568.2, nothing need be done beyond additional A/D convertors and allowing for selection of the ganged together inputs as a single MC input.

Staying Digital:
Handle DSD via one of their players (598 or 800). This would require some hardware and some software too. Hardware to get access to the SACD data physically. Software to translate DSD to PCM. The software could even reside on an ASIC, hardcoded to run very fast. This could be pricey in terms of $$$ or Lbs cost, including licesnses but in theory it's workable.

I see no reason for Meridian to waste time developing new algorithms to manipulate a DSD bitstream, when they already have substantial intellectual capital investment in some pretty killer tools for manipulation of PCM.

All of this is merely speculation, so don't hold me to any of it!

Regards,

Regards,

[This message has been edited by John Kotches (edited 01-05-2003).]

[This message has been edited by John Kotches (edited 01-05-2003).]

Surround Music Fan/Computer Geek/Curmudgeon in training.
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861v4, HD621, Panasonic BD-P55K, Toshiba HD-A35, Oppo HD990, Dish Network 622, Pioneer DV-668AV-S w/ DVD Upgrades mod, EW Fontaine II (x5), Velodyne DD-15 (x2), Seymour AV Ice blocks (x7)