808.2

Signature Reference Compact Disc Player

808.2 rear panel – the 808.2i is shown, with analogue and digital inputs

Meridian’s goal was to invent a technology that stripped away this fundamental limitation in the making of the CD, taking the listener right back to the original higher- resolution sound – no mean ambition,

nor a trivial task. But Meridian’s founder, Bob Stuart, was sure that high-definition sound could be achieved without excessive sample rates – if the filters were right.

Bob authored an Audio Engineering Society paper on high definition audio in 2004 in which he recommended the development of ‘apodizing’ filters – filters that were

Additional panel controls are accessed via the front left flap nerxt to the main controls.

minimum phase, with no ripple, causing no pre-echo: and thus offering perfect timing. He predicted they would even be able to fix problems in the origination process itself.

Meridian’s research team designed an exquisite new filter based on this research

–a filter with ‘apodizing-like’ qualities (you can’t do a true apodizing filter for 44.1kHz sampling) – and its first appearance is

in the 808.2. It needs significant DSP to deliver, using much of the power of the player’s 150MIPS main processor. This filter system is so effective that it can even correct errors made in the recording or mastering stage – CDs played back on the 808.2 can sound even better than they did in the studio!

Bob Harley, editor of The Absolute Sound, reported: “CDs played through the 808.2 and the new DSP7200 active DSP loudspeaker sounded like high-resolution recordings”. Why not listen for yourself?

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: coax unbalanced (S/PDIF), RJ45 balanced (AES/EBU) digital interface for single-cable connection of other Meridian equipment. Operating at up to 2 x CD sample rate (88.2kHz), 24-bit with MHR option.

Stereo Inputs

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

Digital S/PDIF: 3 coax and 2 Toslink optical

Formats

• CD Audio (CD-DA), CD-R, CD-R/W

Comms

•Two 5-pin 240° DIN sockets for Meridian Comms, and RS232 full remote/configuration interface. Three programmable 12v trigger outputs. RJ45 for single-cable connection to other Meridian equipment.

Construction

•Black lacquer or satin silver finish in metal & glass

Controls

•Front-panel keys for Open/Close, Play, Stop, Pause, Previous, 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 and contrast. Indicators for Phase, Repeat and EQ (emphasis).

Dimensions

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

Power

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

808.2DS v2.0 • P88357 • 20080729 REƒ

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Meridian Audio manual Stereo Outputs, 808.2DS v2.0 P88357 20080729 REƒ
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808.2 specifications

Meridian Audio, a prestigious brand in high-end audio equipment, has long been recognized for its innovative technologies and uncompromising sound quality. Among its noteworthy products is the Meridian 808.2 Reference CD Player, which exemplifies the brand's commitment to delivering an unrivaled listening experience.

The Meridian 808.2 combines advanced digital processing technologies with exceptional build quality. One of its hallmark features is the use of Meridian's proprietary "Master Quality Authenticated" (MQA) decoding technology. This allows the 808.2 to deliver studio-quality sound by capturing and rendering high-resolution audio files that are true to the original recording. With MQA, listeners can experience an authentic reproduction of their favorite music, faithfully preserving the nuances and subtleties of the recording.

Another key characteristic of the 808.2 is its precision-engineered CD transport mechanism. Designed to minimize errors and optimize playback, the transport system ensures that the audio signal is as pure as possible. This meticulous attention to detail translates into a sound that is rich, dynamic, and incredibly detailed, allowing music to come alive in a way that few other players can match.

The 808.2 also includes a meticulously designed audio DAC (digital-to-analog converter), which further enhances its performance. With advanced digital filter options, users can tailor their listening experience to suit their preferences. The flexible connectivity options, including digital and analog outputs, ensure compatibility with a wide range of audio systems, making it a versatile component for any high-fidelity setup.

In addition to sound quality, the ergonomic design of the Meridian 808.2 sets it apart. The sleek and stylish chassis not only looks great but also helps to reduce vibration and interference, ensuring that the internal components operate at their best. The user-friendly interface and intuitive controls make navigating your music library a seamless experience.

Overall, the Meridian Audio 808.2 Reference CD Player represents the pinnacle of digital music playback, marrying cutting-edge technology with exquisite craftsmanship. For audiophiles and music lovers alike, it offers a remarkable listening experience that captures the essence of live performances, making it an essential piece for any high-quality audio system. Whether playing CDs or high-resolution audio files, the 808.2 consistently delivers captivating sound that proves Meridian’s dedication to audio excellence.
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