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Meridian America M420, DSP420 manual Meridian DSP, Active Bass Extension, Acoustics

Models: M420 DSP420

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high resolution. These amplifiers are coupled directly to the drive units for the most efficient delivery of power and the best possible control over driver excursion. Both analogue and digital variants exhibit extremely low levels of noise and distortion, aided by careful star earthing, while the power supply includes a substantial toroidal transformer and audiophile-grade capacitors.

Meridian DSP

The DSP420 accepts digital input signals up to 96kHz/24bit, including Meridian High Resolution (MHR) streams from Meridian Surround Controllers, Processors and DVD Players. Enclosed in a fully shielded housing, Meridian’s unique DSP processing is performed on a specially-designed six-layer PCB using a powerful 100 MIPS Motorola DSP engine. Thanks to

this sophisticated audio computer, the DSP420 embodies identical high-technology features to those found throughout the Meridian DSP Loudspeaker family. These include:

•Position control to compensate for speaker location

•FIFO memory buffer at the input for the lowest possible jitter

•Linear-phase crossover for precision drive unit integration

•Tweeter delay for perfect driver alignment

•48-bit resolution volume control

•Minimal frequency equalisation, delivering a frequency response free from drive unit or electronic colouration

•Transparent tone controls

•Absolute phase control

•Phase-corrected balance control

Active Bass Extension

A further DSP-enabled enhancement to the audio performance of the DSP420 is Meridian’s active bass extension. This deepens the response of the system without excessive woofer excursion and in turn produces a convincingly ‘big box’ sound from an in-wall unit. At moderate volumes, a psychoacoustically-correct filter significantly extends the bass response, while at high volumes dynamic DSP bass protection is used to prevent the woofers from bottoming.

Analogue or Digital – Your Choice Following the success of the original DSP420, the loudspeaker is now also available in an analogue active version, the M420. The M420 features a balanced line-level audio input (which may be unbalanced), with an XLR link from back-box

to speaker unit (the digital unit is connected to the back-box via a 15-pin DSUB cable) and analogue crossover. The amplifiers, bass drivers and enclosure are identical in both variants. In addition, a redesigned back-box is available, common to both units, that features several design improvements based on installer feedback from the original design. Audio and power interfacing are built into fire-retardant boxes.

The available redesigned back-box kit includes both analogue and digital input boards, allowing the correct board to be installed as appropriate. While the original screw terminals are retained, digital audio and Meridian Comms connections also employ BNC connectors, while analogue audio is on XLR. Power is hard-wired into the back-box and supplied to the speaker assembly via an IEC connector, thus helping to maximise the speed and efficiency of installation.

Acoustics

The DSP420/M420 front baffle and acoustic back box are made from aluminium. This offers very low resonance at low frequencies and is further damped by the incorporation of stiffening into the back-box. Additional high frequency damping means that the whole system suffers exceptionally low cabinet colouration and delivers excellent mid-range transparency. All damping materials have been fully tested and in all cases comfortably meet or exceed building regulations for in-wall design.

The bass drive units are two parallel 5in woofers with cast alloy chassis, carbon fibre cones and very large shielded magnets that provide excellent drive and control.

The tweeter (aluminium-domed in the DSP420, silk-domed in the M420) has a Neodymium magnet and a protective grille, while an acoustically transparent grille protects the front baffle and drive units from harm when installed. Its powder finish means the grille can be easily painted, helping the unit to blend in with its surroundings.

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Meridian America M420, DSP420 manual Meridian DSP, Active Bass Extension, Acoustics
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M420, DSP420 specifications

The Meridian America DSP420 and M420 are high-performance digital signal processing loudspeakers renowned for their advanced audio technology and exceptional sound quality. Designed for both audiophiles and casual listeners, these speakers are a testament to Meridian's commitment to innovation and excellence in the audio industry.

One of the standout features of the DSP420 and M420 is their fully digital design. This means that the audio signal is processed entirely in the digital domain, eliminating the potential for noise and distortion found in traditional analog systems. The speakers incorporate high-resolution digital-to-analog converters, ensuring that audio playback is accurate and faithful to the original recording.

Both models are equipped with Meridian's proprietary DSP technology, which allows for precise control over sound characteristics. This technology helps to optimize the speakers' performance based on the listening environment, providing a tailored audio experience. The DSP capabilities also extend to built-in eq options, allowing users to customize the sound to their preference.

Another significant feature of the DSP420 and M420 is their active design. This means that each speaker has its own built-in amplifier, providing optimal power and performance. This active configuration allows for better control over the speaker drivers, minimizing distortion and delivering a more dynamic sound.

Connectivity options are abundant, with both models supporting a variety of digital inputs, including AES/EBU, S/PDIF, and network streaming. This versatility makes it easy for users to connect the speakers to a wide range of audio sources, from traditional CD players to modern streaming devices.

The build quality of the DSP420 and M420 is robust, with an aesthetic that complements various interior designs. The cabinets are crafted to minimize resonance, further enhancing sound clarity and definition. Moreover, the drivers used in these speakers are meticulously engineered to deliver broad frequency response, ensuring that every detail of the audio is reproduced accurately.

In conclusion, the Meridian America DSP420 and M420 represent the pinnacle of audio technology in a speaker format. With features like a fully digital design, advanced DSP technology, active amplification, and versatile connectivity, these models are tailored to deliver an unparalleled listening experience. Whether for music, movies, or gaming, the DSP420 and M420 stand out as exceptional choices for anyone seeking premium sound quality in their audio setup.