Opinions Meridian vs Musical Fidelity

[Charles Wasserf]

Hi all,

I have the option between a Meridian 588 and a Musical Fidelity A5, both at a good price. I have found and read a few reviews on these players which are raved about but was hoping for some input from some who may have heard them.

Regards
Charles

 

[Phasenoise]

Meridian every time.

 

[doorman]

I've not heard the Meridian, but I did (briefly) own the MF. I was disappointed from the get-go. It replaced a Jolida that died, but was "flat" and 2 dimensional by comparison, to me anyway. YMMV of course. Maybe I had a dud?
Don

 

[Phasenoise]

To be honest the flat 2D part is pretty normal, I'm no fan of MF gear in general. The Meridian has a pretty neutral balance, the 588 is more modern sounding than that of the 506 or the mighty 508, seems to have a more neutral balance in the bottom end compared to the older 500 / 200 series gear.