You could argue that with very soft second hand prices, a possible cap refresh and a modern SPDIF source with good power supply (Pi plus hat even) (maybe a good switch), there’s a system there which would perform well above its pay grade. Surprisingly good IMHO. Not sure how good the MS600 is/was but I think the speakers can do justice to a better front end.

Probably more than adequate for feeding DSPs, but its reputation for analogue isn't holding up well (and I'm partly responsible for that; I was shocked at how poor it is for a Meridian piece of gear at its price point).

They can definitely shine on the end of a better front end. I was never been impressed at all with MS600 even in a DSP only setting. Never understood what all the hype was about. Even feeding them with a 500 series source would sound considerably better, IMO. Add an 800 series of any flavour, for a very considerable upgrade.

I must jump to the defence of my old faithful MS600.
I use this with AC200 and 5200SL and in my opinion today it represents good pre owned value and performance. Never tried analogue out though but this performance is surely related to amps and speakers employed.

Still sounds good to me.
Hector

Hector,

You’re in an ideal position to compare - have you ever swapped in your 861v4 (does it have ID40/LPS?) or 808.6 to compare with the MS600?

Hi 3dit0r
Yes 861v4 has ID40 and LPS and I have run this to DSP5200SL and found little difference with MS600 using Sooloos. 861v4/ID40/LPS is marginally better but room acoustics were also different. Latest software upgrade to 5200SL, EBA et al in dining room also made an improvement but increased toe in was required to get the best performance.

My son also has MS600 with DSP5000 96/24 this is also a very pleasant listening experience in his small cottage.

808v6 / 5200SE / MQA is another league and price bracket. However some might say just different.
Hence my comment on value today.

Final comment, I much prefer the look of MS600 to that of 218!!

Hector

Aren’t we all going slightly off topic here.

Way off, but it was an interesting discussion to hear other people's views.

Hector

So, just for clarity, you haven’t tried the 861v4/ID40/LPS in place of the MS600 in the same room/acoustics?

MQA and Meridian are owned by the same corporate owner.

No they are not. Meridian was subject to a management buy-out last year. The majority shareholder is CEO John Buchanan.