News

Meridian introduces new analog In-Wall M420 active analogue in-wall loudspeaker at CEDIA (15/8/2005)

Meridian Audio, leading manufacturer of high-quality audio/video home entertainment systems, based in Huntingdon, near Cambridge, has introduced a new active analog in-wall loudspeaker design, the M420, based on Meridian's popular DSP420 digital in-wall loudspeaker released in 2003. It includes the same dual 127mm long-throw bass drivers as the DSP420 and a soft-domed 25mm tweeter.

The M420 is a truly active in-wall speaker with separate internal amplification for high and low frequency bands. Rated at 65 and 85 Watts respectively and using carefully selected bipolar output devices, the idealized low feedback designs are based on those used in other Meridian loudspeakers to deliver exceptionally fast bass response and high resolution. These amplifiers are coupled directly to the drive units for the most efficient delivery of power and the best possible control over driver excursion. Both analog and digital variants exhibit extremely low levels of noise and distortion, aided by careful star earthing, while the power supply includes a substantial toroidal transformer and audiophile-grade capacitors.

The M420 front baffle and acoustic back box are made from aluminum. This offers very low resonance at low frequencies and is further damped by the incorporation of stiffening into the back-box. Additional high frequency damping means that the whole system suffers exceptionally low cabinet coloration and delivers excellent mid-range transparency. All damping materials have been fully tested and in all cases comfortably meet or exceed building regulations for in-wall designs. The bass drive units are two parallel 5-inch woofers with cast alloy chassis, carbon fiber cones and very large shielded magnets that provide excellent drive and control. The silk-domed tweeter has a Neodymium magnet and a protective grille, while an acoustically transparent grille protects the front baffle and drive units from harm when installed. Its powder finish means the grille can be easily painted, helping the unit to blend in with its surroundings.

In addition a new rough-in back-box has been introduced, designed for either the analogue or digital in-wall. Suitable for wall or ceiling mounting, the back-box includes fire-retardant enclosures for power input and an analogue or digital input card (both are supplied). Power is wired into the box via a terminal block, while an IEC connector supplies power to the speaker unit. The back-box operates independently of the mains voltage. Digital inputs and Meridian Comms, in the case of the DSP420, can be wired into terminal blocks or attached via BNC connectors for fast, simple installation, while a DSUB cable connects the loudspeaker unit to the back-box inputs. The M420's analogue input is via XLR connector, with an XLR tail feeding the loudspeaker. The M420 includes Meridian's 'Superbal' input circuit, making unbalanced operation a simple alternative.

The M420 will be shipping in August with a suggested retail price of approximately $2,185 per speaker.

www.meridian-audio.com