Meridian 208-CD (circa 1991–1992)
The Meridian 208-CD was an unusual CD player for the early 1990s. It had a full analog preamplifier built in, so it could act as the control center for a tuner, a tape deck, or even an analog phono turntable. Audio (April 1991, p.61) pointed to its 64-step volume control and the large supplied remote, the Model 209, which handled both CD transport functions and the preamp section. The cover of that same issue led with the 208's high-accuracy bitstream design.
The period measurements were strong. Audio (April 1991, p.66) found the A-weighted signal-to-noise ratio to be about 105 dB for either channel - comfortably better than the 90 dB Meridian specified. The following year, the HI-Fi-Stereo-Buyers directory (1992, p.50) listed the 208 in a matte-black finish, with rated frequency response of 20-20,000 Hz, signal-to-noise above 106 dBA, and THD below 0.004%. That same entry credited it with an analog input convertible to a phono stage via an optional MC/MM board, LED display and lighted controls, enhanced error correction, an oversized toroidal transformer, ten separately regulated power supplies, a precision voltage reference, switchable optical and digital coaxial inputs, and absolute phase switching.
Beyond these period reviews, little is documented about the 208-CD. Production dates and original pricing are not clearly preserved in the record.
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