News

Meridian Introduces DSP3100 Compact Loudspeaker (4/11/2005)

Meridian Audio, the company that introduced the whole concept of using Digital Signal Processing (DSP) technology in a loudspeaker, has announced the introduction of a new compact model, the DSP3100 Ð representing a new benchmark in the development of compact, high-performance digital loudspeakers.

The DSP3100, which replaces the existing DSP33, is intended for use as a bookshelf or stand-mounted loudspeaker. Specially designed aluminium stands are available that can be sand-filled for maximum stability and minimal impact on sound quality. The vertical units also include Omnimount/universal wall bracket mountings for additional flexibility in location. The horizontal centre unit (Model DSP3100HC) is designed to sit on a shelf and is magnetically shielded; a stand is also available. Feet are fitted to the units.

The speakers are tonally similar to other Meridian DSP loudspeakers and as a result they are ideal for use as surrounds for a Meridian DSP-based system. They are equally suited for use in a smaller standalone system in a study or bedroom, and can be used as second zone speakers in a Meridian multi-room environment. With S/PDIF digital inputs at up to 96kHz, they can also be used as high-end computer loudspeakers. The extremely accurate characteristics of the DSP3100 make them eminently suitable for studio monitoring applications, particularly as near-field or surround monitors in recording and mastering facilities, where they can accept digital audio data at standard digital recording sample rates up to 24-bit, 96kHz operation.

Featuring high-efficiency long-throw 6in (160mm) (vertical model) or dual 5 1.4 in (120mm) (horizontal model) bass drivers with doped carbon fibre cones and cast alloy baskets, the DSP3100 also includes a very high quality 1in (25mm) Meridian piston treble drive unit with doped fabric dome. The drivers are powered directly by independent high power, low feedback amplifiers fed from an audiophile-grade power supply with a substantial toroidal transformer. The DSP power in the DSP3100 is provided by a Motorola 56367 running at 150MHz, while dual 24-bit multi-bit delta-sigma converters handle D/A conversion. The vertical units feature a 2-way rear-ported design, while the horizontal centre is a 21Ú2-way closed box design.

The DSP3100 may be controlled via RS232, and operated by an infrared remote control unit (not supplied). The DSP3100 features a distinctive cabinet made from braced MDF with piano-lacquer ends and aluminium side panels bonded for rigidity. The DSP3100 offers extremely low coloration, partially as a result of this cabinet construction. Wood tends to vibrate at lower frequencies, while aluminium is very stable; conversely, aluminium tends to resonate at higher frequencies while wood does not. Combining the two by bonding them together as in the DSP3100 tends to cancel out vibration across the range. In addition, the cabinet is further damped with bitumen, leading to an enclosure that is exceedingly dead.

Cosmetic finishes available are black or silver, matching MeridianÕs G Series components (bead-blasted, chemically brightened and anodized). Exterior wooden surfaces are piano-lacquered.

The DSP3100 is scheduled to be available on November 2005. A pair of vertical units retails for £2595.00, with stands at £330 per pair. The horizontal centre unit retails at £1565.00, with the stand at £190.00. All prices are suggested recommended retail and include VAT.

www.meridian.co.uk