The Meridian Papers - 1

Meridian Loudspeakers: The DSP Path

Meridian Audio has taken an almost unique course in the design of its hi-fi systems, and particularly in its loudspeaker design, where the signal remains in the digital domain until the very last moment, and the loudspeakers include digital crossovers and signal processing.

In the first of a series of articles on Meridian audio products and technology, Richard Elen looks at the company’s DSP loudspeaker philosophy.

Meridian’s top-of-the-line DSP8000 speakers, the essence of high performance

Fig. 1: The conventional arrangement of a sin- gle power amplifier driving a two-way loud- speaker system with a passive crossover.

In each article in this series, we will be looking at a different aspect of the hi-fi signal chain – from source to speaker. In view of its importance in the overall reproduction of the sound, we are first going to consider what happens at the end of the line – the amplification sys- tem and the loudspeakers themselves, for it is here that Meridian has very much charted its own course among consumer audio manufacturers, coming up with a solution that is both elegant, efficient and capable of extremely high audio quality.

The traditional approach

The traditional method of designing a hi-fi system has been with us for a long time, and has hardly changed over the years. Signal from a source – such as a CD player – is fed into a preamplifier or controller, and from there at line level to an amplifier.

From this central cluster of equipment, the now high-level signal is fed via extensive cables to the loudspeakers themselves.

CABLES

EXTERNAL POWER AMPLIFIER

PASSIVE CROSSOVER

LOUDSPEAKER

ENCLOSURE

HF DRIVER

LF DRIVER

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Meridian Audio Speaker manual Meridian Loudspeakers The DSP Path, Traditional approach
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Speaker specifications

Meridian Audio is a prestigious name in the world of high-fidelity audio systems, renowned for its innovation and commitment to delivering a superior listening experience. At the heart of Meridian's offerings are their high-performance speakers, crafted to provide remarkable clarity, precision, and an immersive soundstage.

One of the key features of Meridian speakers is their proprietary Digital Signal Processing (DSP) technology. This advanced technology enables the speakers to deliver a more accurate representation of the sound source, ensuring that every nuance of the music can be heard. DSP allows for real-time adjustments to the sound based on the listening environment, optimizing performance regardless of the room characteristics.

Another standout characteristic of Meridian speakers is their exceptional bass response. The implementation of high-excursion drivers and specially designed enclosures allows Meridian speakers to reproduce deep and powerful bass without sacrificing clarity in the mid and high frequencies. This capability creates a balanced sound profile that can handle a variety of genres, from classical to electronic.

Meridian is also known for its active speaker designs, which integrate amplifiers directly into the speaker cabinets. This design minimizes signal loss and maximizes the efficiency of power delivery to the drivers, ensuring a dynamic and immediate response to the audio signal. Active designs also eliminate the need for external amplifiers and complicated wiring, simplifying setup and enhancing the overall user experience.

Additionally, Meridian speakers often feature unique technologies such as High-Resolution Audio playback and Meridian's proprietary Riva algorithm for enhanced sound staging. These technologies allow the speakers to support a wide range of audio formats, ensuring compatibility with modern high-res music files and providing a more involved listening experience.

Connectivity is another hallmark of Meridian Audio. Their speakers often include multiple input options, including digital and analog inputs, allowing for seamless integration into existing home audio setups or standalone operation. Many models also support wireless streaming protocols, providing convenience and flexibility for users who prefer to play music directly from their devices.

In summary, Meridian Audio speakers are a blend of cutting-edge technology, superior craftsmanship, and an unwavering commitment to audio excellence. With features like DSP technology, exceptional bass response, active designs, and versatile connectivity options, these speakers are designed to deliver a truly breathtaking audio experience for discerning listeners. Whether used in a dedicated home theater or a casual listening environment, Meridian speakers stand out as a hallmark of quality and innovation in the audio world.
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