Meridian Audio has unveiled the 251 powered zone controller as the newest high resolution offering from its 200 Series.
The 251 is designed to be a compact powered zone controller offering two cool-running channels of on-board amplification capable of generating Meridian-quality audio performance for a number of analogue speaker applications.
Enabled for hi-res audio, including Master Quality Authenticated (MQA), the 251 can act as an integrated amplifier, delivering 2 x 100W for two passive loudspeakers or a soundbar for media room projects. Furthermore it can be deployed to run a 2.1 system with a separate subwoofer, using the unit’s pair of analogue outputs, or be used as the hub for distributed audio applications from single zone to whole-house distribution using the 251’s digital and analogue inputs.
The controller can also be the endpoint for Meridian’s Sooloos music management platform as well as offering support for Roon. Upsampling and apodising filters are also incorporated within the 251, alongside jitter reduction and lip syncing to reduce signal timing and alignment issues.
The controller is a 1U, half rack width unit and can be installed either behind a TV or within a rack (with an optional rack mount kit or VESA mounting bracket available). The 251 offers IP and IR control in addition to a native iPad network control app and Meridian Sooloos control.
The Meridian 251 comes with a 5-year warranty and will be shipping from September onwards – pre-orders can be made now.