Bookshelf Speaker Reviews

Subwoofer: SW1600
Inputs: L/R/mono analog (RCA), L/R/mono analog (XLR), coaxial digital (1) up to 96 kHz
Outputs: Coaxial digital (1)
Additional: Meridian Comms, DIN-type, inputs (2), outputs (2)
Enclosure Type: Sealed
Woofer
(size in inches, type): 12, composite cone
Power Rating (watts): 150, RMS, Class G
DSP: Freescale 56367 at 150 MHz
Audio D/A Converter: Dual 24-bit/96-kHz
Crossover Bypass: Yes
Available Finishes: Gloss Black, glass top
Dimensions
(H x W x D, inches): 16.5 x 16.4 x 16.3
Weight (pounds): 78
Price: $3,945

These listings are based on the manufacturer's stated specs; the HT Labs box below indicates the gear's performance on our test bench.

Speaker: DSP3100
Type: Two-way, monitor
Inputs: Coaxial digital (2)
Outputs: Coaxial digital (1)
Additional connections: Meridian Comms, DIN & BNC types, input (1), output (1); RS-232
Tweeter (size in inches, type): 1, doped fabric dome
Woofer (size in inches, type): 6.5, doped carbon-fiber cone
Power Rating (watts, per driver): 75 above 2.6 kHz + 75 below 2.6 Hz
DSP: Freescale 56367 at 150MHz
Audio D/A Converter: Dual 24-bit/192-kHz
Available Finishes: Gloss Black/Matte Silver
Dimensions (H x W x D, inches): 15.2 x 7.65 x 10
Weight (pounds): 28
Price: $4,795/pair

Speaker: DSP3100HC
Type: Two-way, center
Inputs: Coaxial digital (2)
Outputs: Coaxial digital (1)
Tweeter (size in inches, type): 1, doped fabric dome
Woofer (size in inches, type): 5.25, doped carbon-fiber cone (2)
Power Rating (watts, per driver): 75 above 2.6 kHz + 75 below 2.6 Hz
DSP: Freescale 56367 at 150 MHz
Audio D/A Converter: Dual 24-bit/192-kHz
Available Finishes: Gloss Black/Matte Silver
Dimensions (H x W x D, inches): 6.8 x 18.5 x 10
Weight (pounds): 35
Price: $2,895

At A Glance: G91A DVD-Audio Player Controller Tuner

Features
Compatible Playback Formats: DVD-Audio, DVD-Video, DVD-R, CD, CD-R, MP3, Video CD
Possible Playback Resolutions: 1080p, 1080i, 720p, 576p, 480p (digital); 576p, 480p (analog)
Processing Modes: Dolby Digital 5.1, Dolby Pro Logic IIx, DTS
Other: Trifield, 2.1 stereo
Dimensions (H x W x D, inches): 3.5 x 17.3 x 13.8
Weight (pounds): 19.8
Price: $7,695

These listings are based on the manufacturer's stated specs; the HT Labs box below indicates the gear's performance on our test bench.

Connections
Inputs:
Video: Component video (3), S-video (5), composite video (5)
Audio: Coaxial digital (3), optical digital (2), 7.1-channel analog (1), stereo analog (5)
Outputs:
Video: HDMI (1) S-video (3), composite video (3)
Audio: HDMI (1), Coaxial digital (1), optical digital (1), stereo analog (3), preamp (10)
Additional:
RS-232 (1), 12-volt trigger (3), IR jack (2)

Ratings: Meridian DSP3100 Speaker System and G91A Controller

Build Quality: 98
• Bonded aluminum and MDF form tough enclosures
• Heavy toroidal power supply in each speaker
• Superb fit and finish

Value: 86
•Although there's nothing comparable, this system is still very expensive
• Twenty grand can buy a lot of serious competition

Features: 95
• Has unique system architecture
• Digital signal routing, control, and crossover
• DVD-Audio but no SACD

Performance: 99
• Seamless soundstage, matchless realism
• Tight, proportionate bass even without sub
• A new benchmark for the home theater industry

Ergonomics: 85
• Monitor-sized speakers won't dominate a well-designed room
• Installation requires a well-versed professional
• Simply beautiful\

Overall Rating: 94
Top-of-the-heap performance is the result of Meridian's long and patient pursuit of digital nirvana. These speakers are small but deliver enough punch to make a sub unnecessary in some cases. The soundfield they create is almost scary. This system is an unqualified triumph, a challenge to the industry, and a feast for the senses.

General Information
DSP3100 DSP Monitor Speaker, $4,795/pair
DSP3100HC Center-Channel Speaker, $2,895
SW1600 Subwoofer, $3,945
G91A Controller, $7,695
Optional stands for DSP3100 and DSP3100C, $595/pair or $345/each
Meridian
(404) 344-7111
www.meridian-audio.com
Dealer Locator Code MER