808/808i Signature Reference Compact Disc Player

808i (Player/Preamplifier model) Rear Panel. The 808 Player model does not include the analogue and digital input panel areas.

This upsampling allows conversion-related filtering to take place far above the limits of human hearing, so there are no artefacts added to the sound – simply the pure music.

The 808 employs exquisite multibit over- sampled delta-sigma D/A converters, com- bined with a matching proprietary analogue output stage of the highest quality.

To ensure the finest sound, the 808’s construction employs a motherboard and multiple cards. Each card has its own power supplies and buffering so that each section

–computer, decoder, FIFO buffers, DSP upsampling, D/A conversion, digital output, analogue input and digital input – is on a separate and isolated card. As is traditional with Meridian products, the construction uses audiophile-grade capacitors throughout and each component – even each resistor

–has been selected for its sonic contribu- tion. The PCBs are all multilayer, many of them using 6-layer technology for the lowest noise and jitter and for optimum grounding.

Additional controls are fitted under a front panel cover. Full remote control is also pro- vided by the included MSR+ infra-red learn- ing/programmable remote and via RS232.

The 808 features a solidly-constructed case built of metal and glass, finished in black lacquer or satin silver. The casework itself is non-magnetic to maintain the sweetest sound.

Our objective

Meridian CD players have been optimised for the same, accurate sound to which we aspire in all our products. The chief designer, Rob- ert Stuart, has a definite view that the sound should be totally natural in the midrange,

and that the high and low ranges should never intrude – but should remain precise. We believe that the tonality of our players is best judged with the finest recordings of hu- man voice, piano and violin. We audition our new designs using recordings like these, and if they sound ‘wrong’ in any way, the design is not accepted.

Another important target for us is that the player must reveal the ‘space’ in the original recording. Meridian CD players, and 808 in particular, are unique in their ability to allow the listener to hear depth in the recording and to interpret the side and back walls of the recording location.

Most of all, the words we would use to describe the sound of 808 are ‘exquisitely musical’. Those who are lucky enough to own this Signature Reference CD Player will find immense enjoyment, and new depth and subtlety in well-loved recordings, gaining a lifetime of musical insight that is simply not possible with lesser designs.

Outline Specifications

THD & Noise:

Better than –96dBFS

Mechanism: Triple-beam laser, multi-speed CD/DVD-ROM transport

Converters: 192kHz-capable, 24-bit, Delta Sigma converters operating at 4 x CD sample rate (176.4kHz)

Stereo Outputs: Analogue: 1 unbalanced on phono, 1 balanced on XLR- 3M: 2.3V rms fixed/variable, Class A, 47Ω impedance Digital S/PDIF (IEC60958): main coax with MHR plus auxiliary coax, operating at up to 2 x CD sample rate (88.2kHz), 24-bit

Comms: Two 5-pin 240° DIN sockets for Meridian Comms, and RS232 full remote/configuration interface. Three program- mable 12v trigger outputs

Construction: Black lacquer or satin silver finish in metal & glass

Dimensions: 480mm (18.9in) x 175mm (6.9in) x 411mm (16.2in) (whd)

Controls: Front-panel keys for Open/Close, Play, Stop, Pause, Previ- ous, Next, On/Off. Additional controls behind hinged front access cover include Repeat, Fast Forward/Reverse, Display, Mute, Volume Up/Down, Store/Clear; Source. Full remote control via MSR+, RS232

 

 

Display:

20-character dot matrix display with adjustable brightness

Stereo Inputs:

(808i only) Analogue: 6 unbalanced on phono.

 

and contrast. Indicators for Phase, Repeat and EQ (empha-

 

Digital S/PDIF: 3 coax and 2 Toslink optical

 

sis).

Formats:

CD Audio (CD-DA), CD-R, CD-R/W, MP3

Power:

Universal power supply for 100–240Vac, 50/60Hz, 25W

Information contained in this data sheet is correct as far as possible, but Meridian Audio accepts no liability for errors or omissions. Meridian Audio reserves the right to amend product specifications at any time. Third-party trademarks are recognized as the property of their respective owners. Further technical details, images, product reviews and company history are available from Meridian Audio or from our web site, www.meridian-audio.com. ©Text & images 2004 Meridian Audio Ltd.

808DS v3.2 • 20.08.04 RE

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Meridian America warranty 808/808i Signature Reference Compact Disc Player, Outline Specifications, Our objective
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808, 808i specifications

The Meridian America 808 and 808i represent hallmark achievements in high-fidelity audio playback, renowned for their exceptional performance and innovative technologies that elevate the listening experience. At the core of both models lies Meridian's commitment to delivering pure, unadulterated sound that captures the essence of musical recordings.

One of the standout features of the 808 and 808i is their advanced digital-to-analog conversion (DAC) technology, which significantly enhances audio clarity and precision. By employing proprietary Meridian DSP (Digital Signal Processing) algorithms, these devices offer superior sound quality, ensuring that even the smallest nuances of a recording are faithfully reproduced. The 808 series is equipped with a high-performance Meridian DAC that provides an impressive dynamic range, fostering a more immersive listening experience with minimal distortion.

Connectivity is another strong point in the 808 and 808i models. The 808 features multiple input options, including digital inputs, USB, and analog connections, allowing users to effortlessly integrate it into various audio setups. The 808i, an enhanced version, adds network streaming capabilities, supporting Meridian’s proprietary streaming technologies, which facilitate high-resolution audio playback over networks. This opens up vast libraries of music accessible directly from the device, meaning users can enjoy their favorite tracks without the need for additional equipment.

The 808 series also incorporates Meridian's renowned Room Correction technology, which tailors sound playback to the specific acoustics of the listening environment. This feature enables listeners to experience music as it was intended, regardless of room shapes and sizes, optimizing the soundstage for a more engaging audio journey.

In addition to impressive technical specifications, the design of the 808 and 808i exhibits elegance and sophistication. The units come encased in premium materials with a sleek finish that complements any audio system aesthetic. The user-friendly interface, complete with a high-resolution display, simplifies navigation through various settings and preferences.

Overall, the Meridian America 808 and 808i blend outstanding audio performance with state-of-the-art technology, serving as benchmarks in the world of high-fidelity audio. Whether one is an audiophile or a casual listener, both models cater to the need for quality sound, making them highly sought-after components in any high-end audio configuration.
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