Additional comments:-

Andrew Samalionis at Meridian informed me that only the 596 has a 6 month time limit. The 568-568.2 was not indicated as being limited, although, I expect any manufacturer is at liberty to change their mind if dealers are now hearing differently.

As for the original question of whether the upgrade is worth it....not for me as yet. I am putting a 598 into an original 568.

This gives me:-

DVD-A MLP hi-res stereo (shown as MHR 96K on the 568). On initial listenings through my 55k's, this is quite excellent. I don't use Trifield much anyway, and haven't actually seen what the 568 does with it from a 96K source.

plus

access to the DVD-V soundtracks (i.e. DTS 5.1, DD 5.1) to enjoy the surround versions when I want.

What I don't get is MLP hi-res surround.
I know that for sure it is good, but, I am not sure that I can justify going hi-res all round, as the upgrade will mean upgrading my 5k rears to 96/24 also....not something I was planning to do.

To be honest, for the .1% of my music listening that involves the rears, I'm happy as is.

As for Meridian selling an upgrade direct?....I think not.

Rgds

Nick

Rgds,
Nick