Meridian Introduces Multichannel Power Amp
Powerful, Configurable Design Targets High-End Surround Systems
A new multichannel power amplifier from Meridian Audio Limited, a leader in high-performance audio components for music and home theatre systems, features exceptional power and performance along with valuable flexibility. The Meridian 558 Multi-channel Amplifier can be configured to produce five channels of 200 watts each (8 ohm loads), or a single channel along with two massive-power channels of greater than 500 watts each, making it an ideal choice for serious home theatre systems both as a standalone amp, or as a complement to an existing high-end two-channel amplifier. ""Of course, in a perfect world everyone would buy Meridian Digital Active Loudspeakers,"" says company Chairman Bob Stuart, ""In which case no one would require an outboard power amplifier. But we recognize that there are many fine stereo and multichannel passive loudspeaker systems already out there - most particularly several of our own models - that demand state-of-the-art amplification. This new model delivers it, with power enough for nearly any five-speaker layout."" Meridian designed the 558 to deliver enormous current potential even at high output voltages, for very wide dynamic potential and ultra-stable operation into even severely taxing loudspeaker loads. No fewer than 50 pairs of 15-ampere output devices call on 100,000 microfarads of current-storage (via banks of high-speed, audio-grade capacitors), supplied in turn from twin 1.2 kVA toroidal transformers, each electrostatically shielded and galvanically isolated. The result is a source of nearly inexhaustible audio power - weighing a very substantial 114 lbs. Whether in three-channel or five-channel use; the 558 maintains essentially full power (180 watts per channel) with all five channels driven simultaneously, over its full operating range. And should still more power be required, it is simply and easily reconfigured for 1 x 200W-plus-2 x 500W+ operation. To ensure optimal audio quality, the new design is DC-coupled throughout, and thanks to optically coupled control and protection circuits functions as a literally five-channel-mono amplifier downstream of its power-supply transformers. Its error-corrected, ultra-low impedance output stages maintain essentially perfect linearity at all power levels, and minimize the effects of speaker cabling and driver impedance on frequency and time response, maintaining full transient coherence and sonic transparency. The Meridian 558 power amplifier provides switchable balanced and single-ended inputs for each of its five channels, and heavy-duty multiway binding posts for its five outputs. Automatic power-up/power-down may be controlled by AC or DC triggering, and a unique bias-down standby mode that maintains full sonic purity may be invoked by a trigger output from Meridian audio-video preamplifiers/controllers. The amplifier features modular construction and easy five-channel/three-channel configuration, and may be installed in any EIA-standard rack-mount system. The Meridian 558 Multichannel Amplifier is designed and manufactured entirely by Meridian at its Cambridgeshire, England facilities. Ultra-heavy gauge PCB layouts and the use of select-grade components throughout help to ensure that its performance is the best possible. Manufacturerís suggested retail price: USD $5,995