The 800 Series provides no-cost-compromise audiophile performance in a handsome large-format presentation. In the 800 Series, important audiophile features are addressed -including low- noise power supplies, the provision of more connections (including balanced audio), and highly transparent analogue and digital audio and video processing.

The Digital Signal Processing used in the 800 Series has a superb pedigree -Meridian is famous for its Conversion, Resolution Enhancement and DSP for Surround and Loudspeakers. The 800 Series construction shows its function: it is built as a card-based Audiophile Digital Computer.

All functions are plug-in cards: including control microprocessor, analogue and digital inputs and outputs, DSP processors, video routing and processing, DVD decoders, laser demodulators, tape modules, custom interfaces. The list is always growing.

In this way a user can put together the right functions, and any aspect of the machine's performance can be altered later - either by downloading new software into its flash memory, or by adding new plug-in cards. In common with other Meridian products, the 800 Series has full remote control and complete inter-operability with 500 Series components, using RS232 and the Meridian Comms connections.

The 800 Series 19" (450mm) cabinet is of double-skinned construction for complete immunity from sound-damaging RF radiation. The heavy die-cast front panel houses a highly visible display and provides the most commonly required controls on the front face. A hinged switch panel provides keys to access all of the unit's functions. In common with other Meridian components, the top and display window use 4mm plate glass for durable finish and mechanical damping.

The 800 Series appeals to a very wide audience -it offers unique performance for the audiophile or videophile, it brings PC connectivity for multimedia and a degree of flexibility that is welcomed by professional and semi-pro recording engineers.