218 Zone Controller
£750 / $1000
Using Meridian’s High-Resolution upsampling technology, the 218 improves audio output from any audio source for the best sound possible. It offers huge benefits for installers and homeowners alike, allowing installers to provide clients with an easy Hi-Res Audio solution for TV, AV matrix or music streaming systems.
The 218 has a comprehensive range of audio input and output options, including Meridian Speakerlink, optical, and analogue inputs, and digital and analogue outputs, so it can be used in a huge array of applications.
The 218 can also be used as a stand-alone Digital Audio Converter (DAC) to take any music that a homeowner is listening to, through any audio system, and convert it to Hi-Res Audio.
For example, with the 218, users can combine the convenience of streaming services and a product like Sonos with Meridian’s Hi- Res Audio technology. The 218 can convert Sonos’ 44 kHz and 16 bit output to the incredible 192 kHz and 24 bit resolution necessary for Hi-Res Audio, which is a huge jump in audio performance, enabling users to enjoy their favourite music in a way they may never have heard it before.
The 218, which comes equipped with lip sync technology, also features IP control so that it can be easily configured through a webpage, and modules for popular 3rd party control systems to ensure that it fits seamlessly into an existing home automation system. An iPad app enables intuitive, straightforward control of functionality such as volume and switching of sources.
Meridian’s 218 zone controller is also the ideal companion to an AV matrix. When connected to digital or analogue sources from any AV matrix, the 218 uses Meridian’s High Resolution up-sampling technology to maximise the resolution of the music and provide the very best audio quality to a set of Meridian loudspeakers or the power amps driving a set of passive loudspeakers. The 218 requires no additional control programming, so it can be connected to the matrix and begin operating immediately.
The 218 makes it easy for homeowners to stream audio by accommodating both local and distributed audio. It contains all of the functionality needed to create a Hi-Res audio zone, including a Digital Audio Converter (DAC) that takes any music that a homeowner is listening to, through any audio system in the home, and converts it to Hi-Res Audio!
The 218 also comes equipped with IP control so that it can be easily configured through a webpage, and Crestron, Elan G!, RTI, Savant and Control4 integration modules to ensure that the 218 fits seamlessly into existing home automation systems. An iPad app enables intuitive, straightforward control of functionality, such as volume and switching of sources.
Also making this product unique is the fact that it is made in the UK. Maintaining all of its processes at home means that Meridian has complete control over its products, from concept right through to delivery. This means that when integrators receive a Meridian product, they can be confident that its quality, functionality, and reliability will be second to none. The 218 also carries a five-year manufacturer’s warranty.
The 218 is the perfect solution for dealers whose clients want to take advantage of the growing market trend towards Hi-Res Audio music streaming, Meridian’s 218 zone controller includes an MQA decoder to enable it to serve as the backbone of an affordable, comprehensive Hi-Res Audio solution.
A small, compact unit, the 218 takes up only one rack unit and needs no dedicated cooling or ventilation, making it very easy to install. It has a number of installation options, including bracket- and rack-mounted versions, meaning it can be installed in-room or in-rack and has a built-in universal voltage power supply.
The discreet profile and lightweight size of Meridian’s 218 enables it to be bolted to the back of a TV with a VESA mount. It can be connected to the TV’s optical output and then run to a pair of digital active loudspeakers, such as a pair of Meridian DSP3200s or a power amp and used to drive a set of passive loudspeakers. The 218 zone controller is a simple and cost-effective solution for a dealer to provide a homeowner with a vastly improved, Hi-Res Audio experience when watching their TV.
With a wide range of audio inputs and outputs, flexible installation options and Meridian’s High-Resolution upsampling technology, the 218 zone controller represents a valuable opportunity for installers to offer their clients the Hi-Res Audio experience at an affordable, competitive price point.
218 Zone Controller
Category
Product > Audio Product of the Year > Preamplification
Winner Status
- Winner
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