THERE are more ways than one to skin the cat, and this applies to invisibility as well. Say you want a pair of speakers that stay out of sight and still remain in your room or hall. One route – in-wall units that totally blend in with the decor and demand little or no horizontal real estate.
Ah, but really, in-wall? Not something most audiophiles would seriously consider … unless, perhaps, the company pitching its product is one with an impressive pedigree in sound structure, like Meridian, which has just launched a range of in-wall DSP (digital signal processing) loudspeakers based on the design of its free-standing M6. As far as technology goes, it’s cutting edge, ensuring superb sound … and yes, some sort of invisibility.
The DSP500/600 Digital Active Series includes two full-range loudspeakers and a subwoofer, respectively, the DSP520/DSP630 and DSW600. The DSP520 uses an 85mm wide-range driver mated to a 140mm bass driver, the DSP630 is similar, with the addition of a bass unit. Each driver has its own amplifier. The sub has three bass drivers in it, and can be used in a 2.1 or 5.1 configuration, or even with each individual loudspeaker.
The speakers are a mere 200mm wide, and incorporate a back-box and frame mounting system for simple installation. Opt for Meridian’s SpeakerLink cable and wiring is made easy as well. This range can be used as a complete system or matched with the free-standing units – the onboard Meridian DSP in both speakers ensures total synergy.
They are also designed so that you can add them as a zone in a Meridian Digital Media System, while the new Media Source 200 mounts on the back of the speakers and can be controlled from any Digital Media System controller such as the Core Control App for iPad.
Meanwhile, the DSP420, Meridian’s original installation loudspeaker system, has been redesigned to use the same active digital technology.
Meridian says its new in-wall speakers deliver the same level of performance as its free-standing models, a claim not to be scoffed at … and the icing is that your guests won’t even notice them! If that’s what you want …
