When used in a Meridian system, the processor is amazing on digital material;
Proven Meridian upgrade history;
Great remote;
Useful room correction feature;
Relative value of system compared to traditional analog systems; and
Brings out detail in movies and music you never heard before!

Complex product that requires professional assistance for set up;
Should be used as part of a Meridian system to sound its best;
Commitment to Meridian solution from processor to speakers, no mixing of brands recommended; and
Objectively expensive equipment (worth it IMHO with the caveats noted above).

In my opinion, Meridian equipment, when incorporated into a complete Meridian system, is tough to beat on digital material. I had held off on jumping into the Meridian world for some time due to the commitment required (i.e., complete Meridian system). Anyone that tells you that you can use Meridian processors (with the possible exception of the 860 with the right cards) using analog speakers and realize the full potential of the system is not being honest. When used with Meridian DSP speakers and properly set up (more on that in a moment), the combination can be breathtaking on DVDs and CDs. Having said that, you can achieve better performance with other high-end analog set ups (Theta Casablanca, BAT VK-6200 amp and Revel Studio speakers for instance). However, the cost of entry is much higher and, in my opinion, Meridian is better positioned for the ongoing digital evolution. With Meridian DSP speakers, there is no amplifier or expensive cabling to buy. Plus, the system is designed as a system to function together and works seemlessly once properly set up. Yes, you can and SHOULD, invest in good power and digital cabling to bring out the best in your Meridian system; however, you don't have to spend thousands on speaker and interconnect cables.

Meridian equipment is sophisticated and really requires professional set up to bring out its best. It took me nearly 90 minutes just to get sound out of the system. With the features of this processor and the DSP speakers, you should plan to seek expert help to realize the full benefit of your considerable investment.

Customer Service

Very responsive and accommodating. The level of customer care is commensurate with what a high-end manufacturer should offer.

Similar Products Used:

Theta Casablanca and Casanova
Anthem AVM 30
Sunfire TG III
Proceed AVP
Krell HTS 2