Connecting the C51

 

TWEETER

CHANNEL 5

 

TWEETER

CHANNEL 4

 

TWEETER

CHANNEL 3

 

TWEETER

CHANNEL 2

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

OUTPUT

BASS

UNBALANCED INPUT

OUTPUT

BASS

UNBALANCED INPUT

OUTPUT

BASS

UNBALANCED INPUT

OUTPUT

BASS

UNBALANCED INPUT

OUTPUT

 

 

BALANCED

 

 

BALANCED

 

 

BALANCED

 

 

BALANCED

 

C51 Rear Panel (above) and front panel with acrylic cover in place (below)

TWEETER

BASS

CHANNEL 1

ac or dc

INPUT

 

UNBALANCED INPUT

5 - 30V

TRIGGER

BALANCED

MERIDIAN CONTROLLED

FAN OUTPUT

OFFON

POWER INPUT ~50-60Hz 30-1200VA MAX

CAUTION REPLACE WITH SAME TYPE FUSE

T10AH for 100-120V ac ~

Bass

Treble

 

Channel 1

 

Channel 2

 

Channel 3

 

Channel 4

 

Channel 5

Stand By

Hot

C51 Active Speaker Power Unit

 

 

 

Channel 1

Channel 2

Channel 3

Channel 4

Channel 5

Crossover

Crossover

Crossover

Crossover

Crossover

The C51 contains five identical channel pairs (bass/treble) of audio amplification. Unless otherwise stated, this section refers to one channel only.

Input connections

Two full-inputs are provided for each channel: balanced (XLR-3F) and unbalanced (gold- plated phono). The active input is selected with a slide switch.

The audio connections should be made with high quality audio phono leads or XLR leads.

Trigger input

The unit is designed to be switched in and out of standby by means of the application of a trigger voltage via this 3.5 mm mono jack socket. The application of an AC or DC voltage between 5 and 30 volts will turn the unit on (ie bring it out of standby). Removing the voltage will return the unit to standby. Ensure that the trigger source is configured to provide a voltage within this range when the unit is required to be switched on.

Output connections

Connect the cables from the rear-panel output terminals to the speaker units. Be sure to observe correct polarity and the source and destination of each channel.

Note that these terminals can develop significant voltages/current-passing capability when the C51 is powered up and being fed with an active signal. Ensure that connections are made with the power disconnected from the unit.

You can connect five Meridian Active Installation Loudspeakers (such as the A320, A330, A350, or A200Z) to the C51. The C51 is designed specifically for use with Meridian Active Installation Loudspeakers, each of which is supplied with the appropriate crossover module. As a result the unit cannot be used with other loudspeakers.

Connect each Meridian Active Installation

Loudspeaker to the appropriate outputs, using two pairs of speaker cables for each speaker connected to the BASS + and -, and the TWEETER + and - terminals.

Plug the crossover module supplied with each Active Installation Loudspeaker into the appropriate crossover bay on the front panel of the C51, and re-fit the acrylic cover. Ensure that the card is correctlly seated and that the correct card for the speaker is in the appropriate slot. Each crossover card includes indicator lights that show the presence of power and, by their colour combination, indicate the type of speaker for which the card is designed.

Connect the input for each channel to the appropriate CHANNEL 1 to 5 INPUT, using either the BALANCED or UNBALANCED input, and setting each INPUT switch accordingly.

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Meridian Audio operation manual Connecting the C51, Input connections, Trigger input, Output connections

C51 specifications

The Meridian Audio C51 is a premium digital preamplifier designed to elevate the audio experience for audiophiles and home theater enthusiasts alike. Combining cutting-edge technology with Meridian’s renowned craftsmanship, the C51 serves as the heart of a high-end audio setup, offering unparalleled performance and versatility.

One of the standout features of the C51 is its advanced digital signal processing (DSP). Meridian's proprietary DSP technology ensures accurate rendering of sound, enabling listeners to immerse themselves in a superior audio experience. The C51 utilizes Meridian's proprietary 24-bit/192kHz digital to analog converters (DACs) to deliver crystal-clear audio reproduction, providing a rich and dynamic soundstage across all music genres and media formats.

In terms of connectivity, the C51 is equipped with a plethora of inputs and outputs designed to accommodate various audio sources. It features multiple digital audio inputs including coaxial, optical, and USB, allowing users to easily connect CD players, computers, or streaming devices. For those with extensive collections of analog equipment, the C51 also offers balanced and unbalanced analog inputs, ensuring compatibility with a wide range of devices.

The C51 includes Meridian’s innovative SmartVolume technology, which automatically adjusts the volume levels of different audio sources, thus eliminating sudden volume changes that can disrupt the listening experience. Additionally, the preamplifier supports Meridian’s Audio Core technology, allowing users to create custom multi-room audio setups seamlessly.

Aesthetic sophistication is another hallmark of the C51. The preamplifier features a sleek and modern design that fits perfectly within any high-end audio or home theater installation. The intuitive user interface, complete with a high-resolution display and responsive controls, enhances user experience, making it easy to navigate settings and adjust sound preferences.

Overall, the Meridian Audio C51 stands out as a versatile and high-performance preamplifier, combining advanced technology with elegant design. Ideal for audiophiles who seek exceptional audio fidelity and flexibility in their sound systems, the C51 promises to elevate your listening experience to new heights. Whether you’re enjoying your favorite vinyl records or streaming high-resolution audio, the C51’s advanced features and meticulous engineering ensure that every note is delivered with precision and clarity.