Website author headshot
Cameron Oatley
ExtremeHiFi
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi

Note that this is a discontinued product. You may want to visit the brand's page here to browse their newer products.

What reviewers think

Bloggers and YouTubers have tried this product—so we've summarized their strongest opinions below. Links to full reviews follow.

Product Strengths

  • The DSP3200, when paired with the Meridian Sooloos Media Core 200, offers an alternative solution to high-quality audio that often requires multiple components
  • With a high-polish fit and finish, the DSP3200 exudes high-end quality, featuring a clean aesthetic cabinet
  • The DSP3200 offers more functionality, providing flexibility for installation
  • The DSP3200 digs out detail like few others, demonstrating exceptional low-level resolution and managing to unearth fine sounds that more expensive amplifier and speaker combinations fail to reveal

Product Considerations

  • The Meridian digital system allows maximum performance from a small speaker, but it does tie one into a proprietary system and limits the freedom to expand to anything but other Meridian products
  • Those wanting deep, powerful bass will be better served by larger speakers or by adding a subwoofer

Takeaway: The DSP3200, when paired with the Meridian Sooloos Media Core 200, creates a minimalist high-end music-listening rig that delivers a highly resolute sound. It's a well thought-out solution to the music lover's needs.

What are hifi reviews useful for? (1) Identifying products you should demo in person at a dealer. (2) Learning which products reviewers unanimously praise as the best they've heard (this means they probably are legitimately great). (3) Identifying a product's attributes that satisfy your idiosyncratic needs and tastes. Beyond that, we often discount what reviewers say because they heap praise on most products—and are often apprehensive about publishing strong criticism or comparisons between products. Further, they seldom have more than a few products on-hand, often relying on their memories to compare past products. Always listen for yourself.

All

DSP3200

reviews

[{"title":"Review: Meridian Sooloos Media Core 200 and DSP3200","link":"https://www.soundandvision.com/content/review-meridian-sooloos-media-core-200-and-dsp3200","source":"Sound & Vision","datePublished":""},{"title":"Meridian Audio Core 200 & DSP3200","link":"https://www.hifichoice.com/content/meridian-audio-core-200-dsp3200-%C2%A35250","source":"Hi-Fi Choice","datePublished":""},{"title":"Meridian Sooloos System Reviewed (Audio Core 200, Control 15 and DSP3200 Digital Active Loudspeakers)","link":"https://hometheaterreview.com/meridian-sooloos-system-reviewed-audio-core-200-control-15-and-dsp3200-digital-active-loudspeakers","source":"Home Theater Review","datePublished":""}]
An excellent review of a great product
/
Publisher
/
3/1/2022
An excellent review of a great product
Publisher
/
3/1/2022

Manufacturer details

  • Audio Input: 1 x Meridian SpeakerLink (RJ45) accepting 32kHz to 96kHz sampling rates at up to 24-bit
  • Audio Output: 1 x Meridian SpeakerLink (RJ45) delivering 32kHz to 96kHz sampling rates at up to 24-bit
  • Peak SPL: 114dB at 1m
  • Noise: less than 15dB SPL
  • Frequency response: 45Hz to over 20Hz (in-room within 3dB)
  • Amplifiers: 2 x 75w (150w)
  • Bass Driver: 1 x 165mm polypropylene long-throw bass driver
  • Wide-range Driver: 1 x 85mm aluminium cone wide-range driver
  • Dimensions: 320mm [12.6in] (H without feet) x 244mm [9.6in] (W Max at base) x 246mm [9.7in] (D Max at base)
  • Weight: 8.5kg [20lbs]
  • Power: 550W (maximum)
The DSP3200 is a compact loudspeaker that provides a powerful performance well beyond what is expected for its size. It is suitable for intimate listening spaces or as part of a larger installation. The DSP3200 employs Meridian's award-winning DSP technologies, two integrated amplifiers and two drive-units.
Manufacturer Site

Brand highlights

Taking a step back to look at reviewers' thoughts of the brand's entire lineup—not just this product—what stands out most is the following:

  • Meridian leverages its decades of DSP expertise, including proprietary algorithms like Enhanced Bass Alignment (EBA) and granular software control, to tailor the sound of their speakers to specific room placements and user preferences.
  • The brand offers its customers a unique personalization program where speakers can be finished in any color, enabling seamless integration into any decor.
  • They designed and implemented the SpeakerLink connection, a proprietary system that transmits both digital audio and control signals over Ethernet cables, simplifying setup and reducing cable clutter.

DSP5200

  • Positioning: The entry-level line, designed for affordability and compactness.
  • Description: Features Meridian's refined audio architecture that offers balanced performance for smaller rooms with essential connectivity. Compared to the more advanced models in the lineup, delivers simpler processing and fewer high-end functions, making it ideal for users on a tight budget with modest functionality needs.

Special Edition DSP7200

  • Positioning: Mid-range reference series model aimed at enhanced performance for standard home environments.
  • Description: Incorporates advanced digital signal processing with a more robust tuning approach that delivers a higher level of detail than the entry-level DSP5200. In contrast to the HC version and DSP9, provides improved clarity and sound stability without the extra power or extensive connectivity options available in the higher-tier products.

Special Edition DSP7200HC

  • Positioning: Mid-to-high range reference series product geared toward larger rooms demanding extra output.
  • Description: Uses high current amplification alongside advanced tuning algorithms to offer increased dynamic range and headroom compared to its non-HC sibling. When set against the DSP5200 and the standard DSP7200, provides a noticeable boost in power and performance, yet still sits below the ultra-high-end DSP9 in terms of overall sonic refinement.

DSP9

  • Positioning: High-end reference series product intended for systems where demanding performance is key.
  • Description: Uses cutting-edge design with enhanced signal processing that delivers a more precise and detailed sound stage than the DSP7200 variants. Compared to both the lower-tier DSP5200 and the HC model, offers deeper technical sophistication and robust performance characteristics while remaining more accessible than the flagship alternative.

DSP8000-XE

  • Positioning: The flagship product designed for ultimate, high-resolution home theater systems.
  • Description: Integrates groundbreaking digital signal processing and power amplification technology to achieve exceptional clarity, expansive soundstage, and versatile connectivity features. Compared to the DSP9 and other Reference Series models, stands out with superior build quality and the most comprehensive feature set.
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Avg. Product Price
$5,001-$10,000
Used For Sale
175
 Available (Scroll Down)
Brand Popularity
47
 of 900+
Badges
Top 50 Brand
Top 250 Brand
Products Listed
24
Founding Year
1977

Our take on the brand

Meridian Audio pioneered digital surround-sound processing and Digital Signal Processing (DSP) in speakers, and developed the Meridian Lossless Packing technology that became the standard for DVD-Audio and Blu-ray formats. The brand's unique technologies include Enhanced Bass Alignment for time-aligned frequencies, SpeakerLink for simplified digital connections using Ethernet-style cables, and MQA for high-resolution audio streaming.

Look inside the brand

Brand Page

Our interview with the brand

What are two key technological innovations or strong opinions that differ you from other brands?

What's your approach to customer support?

What are your favorite tracks for showcasing the strength of your products?

What other products pair best with yours?

From our interview with
.
Brand Page

What if you spend more?

Product image
Goldmund
Pulp
17429
17429
/
1
Reviews
Goldmund is a Swiss hifi brand known for its "mechanical grounding" technology, which reduces vibrations through heavy, precisely engineered components, and its proprietary Telos amplifier technology that significantly reduces intermodulation distortion. The brand appeals to audiophiles who prioritize pure sound reproduction, focusing on musical realism through minimalist design and high bandwidth circuitss.
Check Amazon
Expand Details

Product Strengths

  • Luxurious texture sound
  • Equipped with Bluetooth/WiSA
  • A pair of chic 175-watt branded Telos amplifiers are on board

Product Considerations

  • Very high price

Takeaway: The Goldmund Pulp brought Goldmund into the compact wireless speaker segment with great success, delivering luxurious sound. It proves the brand can make iconic products outside of their usual ultra-expensive range.

Video review

Our take on the brand

Goldmund is a Swiss hifi brand known for its "mechanical grounding" technology, which reduces vibrations through heavy, precisely engineered components, and its proprietary Telos amplifier technology that significantly reduces intermodulation distortion. The brand appeals to audiophiles who prioritize pure sound reproduction, focusing on musical realism through minimalist design and high bandwidth circuitss.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page
Product image
PMC
PMC8-2
15250
15250
/
1
Reviews

As with any PMC loudspeaker, thanks to its super-consistent dispersion and tonal balance, the PMC8-2 may be simply and seamlessly combined with smaller PMC speakers to create larger multi-channel or immersive systems. The twin bass drivers are partnered with the same PMC55 mid-range tweeter, DSP system and four channels of 400W Class-D amplification used in the PMC6-2. Again, the speaker is configurable directly via the rear panel or using the browser-based SoundAlign™ software from a computer or tablet.

Together with the precisely tuned ATL™ cabinet and hexagonal Laminair™ vents, the PMC8-2 delivers phenomenal performance that approaches that of our Main reference monitors, with smooth and consistent bass response down to 25Hz, a revealing mid-range and wide, stable sound-staging. As with the rest of the range, the PMC8-2's superb definition, fidelity, dynamics and bass accuracy allow mix decisions to be made quickly with complete confidence, and with no listening fatigue even after long sessions.

PMC8-2s can be upgraded through the addition of a PMC8-2 SUB to create an XBD system, enhancing the system's bass headroom by 6dB. Dedicated short and taller floor-stands are available for the PMC8-2 and PMC8-2 XBD systems which position them on the ideal listening axis.

"Active 3-way nearfield reference monitor with ATL™ bass loading Frequency response: 25Hz - 25kHz (- 3dB @1m full space, on-axis) Max. cont. SPL: 113dB @1m (half space value calculated as +3dB from full space measurement. Unweighted input, 20-20kHz Pink Noise (IEC) with 12dB CF for 2 hours AES2-1984 duration) State-of-the-art Class-D amplifiers: HF 400W, MF 400W, LF 2x 400W Analogue / AES3 digital input (16/24-bit, 18 -192kHz sample rate) Digital 'through' output (AES3 24-bit 96kHz SoundAlign™ network control interface for single or group EQ & settings Sophisticated DSP crossover, driver protection, EQ, and delay/polarity options PMC8-2 + PMC8-2 SUB creates PMC8-2 XBD, with up to 6dB of additional headroom Optional dedicated floor stands for PMC8-2 (40") and PMC8-2 XBD (19")"

PMC is a hifi speaker brand known for its Advanced Transmission Line (ATL) technology, which enhances bass response and reduces distortion, and its LaminairX technology in the Prophecy series, which reduces turbulence and harmonic distortion by up to 3dB. Their active speakers are preferred by music and audio professionals for their tonal accuracy and dynamic range, with user reviews particularly praising their accurate midrange and detailed sound compared to brands like Dynaudio and B&W.
Check Amazon
Expand Details

Product Strengths

  • Unparalleled clarity, definition, and utmost accuracy
  • Excellent bass extension and clarity, as well as proper tonal balance at every volume
  • Super wide dispersion, and thus a bigger sweet spot

Product Considerations

  • It would be overkill in smaller rooms
  • A pair is a significant investment, so it makes sense that it's geared toward large, professional recording environments
  • They weigh nearly 100 pounds apiece

Takeaway: The PMC 8-2 is a wise investment for professional studios that delivers detailed and accurate monitoring, so it could very well be the only monitor needed It uses proprietary technology to deliver its signature sound

Video review

Our take on the brand

PMC is a hifi speaker brand known for its Advanced Transmission Line (ATL) technology, which enhances bass response and reduces distortion, and its LaminairX technology in the Prophecy series, which reduces turbulence and harmonic distortion by up to 3dB. Their active speakers are preferred by music and audio professionals for their tonal accuracy and dynamic range, with user reviews particularly praising their accurate midrange and detailed sound compared to brands like Dynaudio and B&W.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page

What competes at this price?

Dynaudio
Focus 10
5500
/
Released
2022
Focus 10 is more than just a pair of active loudspeakers. It's a complete music system, packed from top to bottom with the technology that's taken Dynaudio to legendary status – allied with the most cutting-edge wireless features we could think of. And we thought of a lot.
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Dynaudio is a hifi speaker brand known for its unique external voice-coil construction, which allows for larger voice coils that improve thermal power handling and reduce thermal compression. The brand has a heritage in professional sound production and uses advanced materials like the Esotar 40 tweeter and rare 240mm drivers to deliver superior dynamic realism and headroom.
Expand Details

Our Summary

Product Strengths

  • Integrated technology allows direct high-resolution listening without extra devices
  • The speaker uses the same Pascal Class D amplification and processing technology from Dynaudio's Pro line Core series
  • Discrete amplification channel per driver: 110 watts for the tweeter and 280 watts for the woofer
  • Dirac Live room correction is available, which can tune some of the annoying sounds of a garage, for example, using the soft dome tweeter

Product Considerations

  • Running a digital coaxial cable from one speaker to the next results in the signal being sent at 24-96 kilohertz, which is a lower quality than what the master speaker receives (24-192)
  • There is no HDMI arc or e-arc connection
  • Drilling holes may be required to attach the speaker to stands
  • Setting up the speaker with the app is not as quick or seamless as Bluesound
  • A microphone is required to do Dirac room calibration

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Vs PSB Alpha IQs: Plays louder with a higher level of amplification
  • Vs Dynaudio Core 7: The Core 7 has more power and a slightly better tweeter and woofer, but is not as aesthetically pleasing and needs a Bluesound Node
  • Vs Dynaudio Evoke: It is similar to an Evoke speaker, but with a bigger woofer

Takeaway: The Focus recMsY5ljWopDD7UU is a sophisticated wireless speaker that pulls technology from Dynaudio's Pro line and features Dirac room calibration. It is ideal for someone looking for high-resolution listening without extra devices and who values sophisticated sound and aesthetics.

Video review

Our take on the brand

Dynaudio is a hifi speaker brand known for its unique external voice-coil construction, which allows for larger voice coils that improve thermal power handling and reduce thermal compression. The brand has a heritage in professional sound production and uses advanced materials like the Esotar 40 tweeter and rare 240mm drivers to deliver superior dynamic realism and headroom.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page
PMC
active twenty5.21i
5509
/
Released
2024
The Active twenty5.21i is the smallest in the range, but its impact and portrayal of any piece of music is far from small, thanks to PMC's ATL bass loading and 2x100W active amplification.
Check Amazon
PMC is a hifi speaker brand known for its Advanced Transmission Line (ATL) technology, which enhances bass response and reduces distortion, and its LaminairX technology in the Prophecy series, which reduces turbulence and harmonic distortion by up to 3dB. Their active speakers are preferred by music and audio professionals for their tonal accuracy and dynamic range, with user reviews particularly praising their accurate midrange and detailed sound compared to brands like Dynaudio and B&W.
Expand Details

Our Summary

Product Strengths

  • Neutral sound signature is suitable for critical listening and reveals details in recordings
  • Transmission line design allows surprisingly deep and well-defined bass for its compact size
  • Clarity, resolution, and the ability to separate instruments are noted
  • Wide and airy soundstage creates a sense of space and immersion
  • High frequencies are described as refined, open, and airy, with good extension and controlled sibilance

Product Considerations

  • Revealing nature means it can expose flaws in recordings and upstream equipment
  • Soundstage depth was an area one reviewer struggled with
  • Speaker is neutral to cool-ish, not a full, rich sounding speaker
  • Revealing nature also makes placement sensitive

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Versus the GoldenEar BRX, the PMC twenty5.21i was cooler in balance, but faster
  • Compared to the Harbeth P3 ESR, the Harbeth has heart, body, and soul, making one feel like there are human beings making music
  • The PMC twenty5.21i bass is faster and clearer than ProAc, which seems slower and lumpier in comparison

Takeaway: The PMC Active twenty5.21i is a compact speaker that delivers a detailed and neutral sound with impressive bass for its size. It's a great choice for those who want accurate sound reproduction and appreciate hearing all the nuances in their music.

Video review

Our take on the brand

PMC is a hifi speaker brand known for its Advanced Transmission Line (ATL) technology, which enhances bass response and reduces distortion, and its LaminairX technology in the Prophecy series, which reduces turbulence and harmonic distortion by up to 3dB. Their active speakers are preferred by music and audio professionals for their tonal accuracy and dynamic range, with user reviews particularly praising their accurate midrange and detailed sound compared to brands like Dynaudio and B&W.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page
PMC
PMC6-2
10000
/
Released
2021
A serious near/midfield monitoring tool that fits easily within any control room or immersive system, the PMC6-2 is unmatched in its outstanding clarity, forensic resolution, and sheer impact. The PMC6-2 provides main-monitor scale, depth, and dynamics, and allows mix decisions to be made quickly, with absolute certainty and without fatigue.
Check Amazon
PMC is a hifi speaker brand known for its Advanced Transmission Line (ATL) technology, which enhances bass response and reduces distortion, and its LaminairX technology in the Prophecy series, which reduces turbulence and harmonic distortion by up to 3dB. Their active speakers are preferred by music and audio professionals for their tonal accuracy and dynamic range, with user reviews particularly praising their accurate midrange and detailed sound compared to brands like Dynaudio and B&W.
Expand Details

Our Summary

Product Strengths

  • Extremely clear sound, making them better for mixing and mastering than many other monitors
  • Sound like main monitors, offering a large sound footprint not typically found in near-field or mid-field monitors
  • Wide bandwidth accuracy and dependability at any volume level
  • Midrange performance is particularly notable for realistic, unhyped accuracy, especially on naturally recorded human voices
  • Bass performance combines extended bandwidth with great dynamic, pitch, and temporal accuracy

Product Considerations

  • Require a significant break-in period
  • To get the most out of them, an interface that can connect via AES is needed, as the conversion when using analog is not as transparent
  • Correct placement is crucial; at least four and a half feet of distance is needed between the listener and the monitor to be able to get all of the sound that it's trying to give
  • SoundAlign software, while useful for EQ adjustments, may introduce unwanted digital artifacts to the sound
  • Expensive, these monitors are at the higher end of this sector and share that space with some well-respected designs

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Vs ATC SCM25a: The reviewer finds an absence of 'not hearing the box' evident in the 6-2 compared to the ATCs
  • Vs Neumann KH310s: The 6-2s outperform them in every respect, sounding much better, with other monitors sounding colored by comparison
  • Vs ATC 150s: The reviewer prefers these PMC6-2s over the ATC 150s

Takeaway: The PMC6-2 is a high-performance studio monitor that delivers exceptional clarity and detail. For those seeking accurate and dependable sound at all volumes, these monitors are worth consideration.

Video review

Our take on the brand

PMC is a hifi speaker brand known for its Advanced Transmission Line (ATL) technology, which enhances bass response and reduces distortion, and its LaminairX technology in the Prophecy series, which reduces turbulence and harmonic distortion by up to 3dB. Their active speakers are preferred by music and audio professionals for their tonal accuracy and dynamic range, with user reviews particularly praising their accurate midrange and detailed sound compared to brands like Dynaudio and B&W.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page
PMC
PMC6
6100
/
Released
2021
If you are a professional who needs the last word in reliable reference monitoring in a compact form, then the PMC6 active two-way is the answer. The PMC6 is packed with innovation and providing the same sonic signature as our renowned larger monitors, it's ideal for smaller control rooms or for use in larger immersive systems, where its astounding resolution allows critical mix decisions to be made with absolute confidence.
Check Amazon
PMC is a hifi speaker brand known for its Advanced Transmission Line (ATL) technology, which enhances bass response and reduces distortion, and its LaminairX technology in the Prophecy series, which reduces turbulence and harmonic distortion by up to 3dB. Their active speakers are preferred by music and audio professionals for their tonal accuracy and dynamic range, with user reviews particularly praising their accurate midrange and detailed sound compared to brands like Dynaudio and B&W.
Expand Details

Our Summary

Product Strengths

  • Detailed and accurate sound reproduction
  • Extended bass response due to PMC's Advanced Transmission Line (ATL) technology
  • Exceptional stereo imaging allowing for precise mixing and monitoring
  • Easy configuration through the SoundAlign web interface, offering versatile adjustments
  • Attractive and versatile design suitable for both portrait and landscape orientations

Product Considerations

  • Minor dip in the frequency response around 300Hz, potentially due to transmission line harmonics, though it doesn't affect the overall performance
  • High mids may be revealing and fatiguing to some users
  • Users need to ensure proper network connectivity for using the SoundAlign app

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Vs ATC SCM20ASL Pro Mk2, the PMC6 has a stronger low-end, while the ATC offers unmatched clarity and articulation in smaller rooms
  • Vs PSI Audio A21-M, the PMC6 is more powerful
  • Vs Genelec 8341A, the Genelec has a wider frequency response

Takeaway: The PMC6 is an impressive nearfield monitor that provides trustworthy sound to work on your audio and mixes. It's a valuable studio tool because it allows users to make mix choices with confidence.

Video review

Our take on the brand

PMC is a hifi speaker brand known for its Advanced Transmission Line (ATL) technology, which enhances bass response and reduces distortion, and its LaminairX technology in the Prophecy series, which reduces turbulence and harmonic distortion by up to 3dB. Their active speakers are preferred by music and audio professionals for their tonal accuracy and dynamic range, with user reviews particularly praising their accurate midrange and detailed sound compared to brands like Dynaudio and B&W.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page
ATC
SCM25A Pro Mk2
9790
/
Released
2023
The SCM25A Pro Mk2 is a compact 3-way high-performance active studio monitor loudspeaker, based around a 6.5"/164mm bass driver. The monitors combination of exceptional mid-range clarity, high output, extended bass response and modest size makes it ideal for nearfield monitoring in a wide range of critical applications.
Check Amazon
ATC is distinguished by manufacturing all drivers in-house and using a unique dual-suspension system in their tweeters that enhances stability without ferro-fluid. The brand, widely used in recording studios, features sealed cabinet designs for tight bass control and a proprietary 75mm soft-dome midrange driver that delivers precise, uncolored sound.
Expand Details

Our Summary

Product Strengths

  • Broad dynamic range with extended high frequencies and low distortion
  • Precise and detailed high end that is clean and dimensional
  • Highly dimensional, reach-out-and-touch-it midrange representation
  • Full, firm, and punchy low end
  • Tonal consistency is good no matter where you are in the room

Product Considerations

  • Requires the purchase of a left and right model
  • Low mids may be more forward than some users are accustomed to
  • Needs a robust speaker stand due to its weight
  • The sweet spot seemed a bit shallower in depth than other monitors produce

Takeaway: The SCM25A is a studio monitor with great clarity that can help make better mixing decisions and identify problem areas in tracks. It's built to provide accurate and trusted counsel, making the technical parts of tone-building quicker.

Video review

Our take on the brand

ATC is distinguished by manufacturing all drivers in-house and using a unique dual-suspension system in their tweeters that enhances stability without ferro-fluid. The brand, widely used in recording studios, features sealed cabinet designs for tight bass control and a proprietary 75mm soft-dome midrange driver that delivers precise, uncolored sound.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page

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