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Meridian DSP520.2
Performance Series In-Wall
DSP520.2
Ultra-shallow (100mm deep) design provides full DSP loudspeaker performance, while the rough-in box and frame system allows for easy installation and precise positioning. Grill can be painted to match décor.
Bespoke Signal Mapping
Meridian Bespoke Signal Mapping utilises digital signal processing to apply tailored crossover filters that are designed specifically for each configuration of drive units within a loudspeaker.
E3 Bass
Meridian E3 Bass uses specifically designed filters to expand, extend and enhance the low-frequency response of the loudspeaker.
Image Elevation
Image Elevation psychoacoustically raises the sound image to the centre of a screen – where the listener would expect to hear it from.
FFA
FFA (Full Frequency Alignment) is a combination of digital filters and delays to correct the group-delay of a loudspeakers. It ensures that all frequencies reach the listener’s ear at the same time.
Pro-Active Bass
Meridian Pro-Active Bass protects the bass drivers from over-excursion, ensuring maximum bass output without damaging the drive units.
Pro-Active Thermal
Meridian Pro-Active Thermal monitors the audio being sent to the mid-range drivers and tweeters and limits the overall volume of the loudspeaker if there is a risk of the drive units getting too hot.
True Time
True Time is Meridian's proprietary Apodising Filter that avoids pre-ringing and cleans up the effects of early filters, converting pre-echo to post-echo.
True Link
Meridian True Link is an encryption method for transferring high-definition digital audio over SPDIF connections. It allows secure movement of digital audio whilst ensuring that the SPDIF clock signal can be transmitted with minimum degradation.
HPA
Meridian's HPA (High Powered Array) processing technology minimises destructive interference between the multiple loudspeakers when used in an array configuration.
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Meridian DSP520.2 — compact active speaker with serious DSP muscle
The Meridian DSP520.2 pairs active DSP tuning with dual bridged Class D amplification to deliver a compact speaker that punches well above its size. With a dedicated 140mm long-throw bass driver and 2 x 100W bridged bass amps it promises authoritative low end down to a specified 40Hz and a 114dB peak SPL, while an 85mm neodymium wide-range driver and DSP crossover offer detailed mids and poised treble. Meridian's digital-native connectivity (SpeakerLink RJ45 supporting 32–96kHz/24-bit and RS232 control) and on-board configuration LEDs make integration straightforward for digital-first systems.
Reviews and technical scoring highlight the DSP520.2's strengths in imaging, dynamics and build quality: precise soundstage placement, tight transient response and robust construction in a slender 800mm cabinet. For installers and audiophiles seeking a high-performance active stand/column speaker that prioritises control and system integration, the DSP520.2 is compelling. Brian Mitchell at ecoustics notes the family pedigree and engineering focus that underpin these traits.
Overall, the DSP520.2 is a feature-rich, technically confident speaker that rewards listeners who value DSP control, connectivity and solid low-frequency authority.
Pros
- Authoritative, controlled bass from a 140mm long-throw driver and dedicated bridged 100W Class D bass amplification.
- Very good imaging and soundstage precision thanks to Meridian DSP time-alignment and digital crossover.
- Comprehensive digital connectivity (SpeakerLink RJ45, RS232) and front-panel configuration/LEDs make installation and system integration straightforward.
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Cons
- Value is hard to judge because no price information is provided; the feature set suggests a premium positioning.
Sound Quality
89/100
Bass
90/100
Active design with a 140mm long-throw bass driver, dual bridged 100W Class D bass amplification and 40Hz specified extension point to very strong low-frequency output. Peak SPL 114dB and the dedicated bass amplification suggest controlled authority and headroom. For its size, the DSP520.2 should deliver bass depth and control comparable to much larger standmounts.
Mid
88/100
An 85mm wide-range driver with neodymium magnet plus DSP processing and separate amplification imply clear, well-controlled midband timbre. Meridian's DSP tuning typically emphasises accurate vocal presence and clean timbral balance, so mids are likely detailed and natural without undue coloration. The dedicated amplifier per driver also supports low distortion in midrange dynamics.
Treble
87/100
Wide-range driver and DSP crossover control give good treble extension and refinement; the design avoids passive crossover losses and allows precise high-frequency shaping. With no reviewer reports available, the spec-driven expectation is detailed, well-behaved treble with low harshness thanks to DSP equalisation. Top-end air and microdetail should be above average for compact stand/ bookshelf speakers.
Soundstage Imaging
90/100
Meridian DSP and active amplification enable precise time-alignment and DSP-based imaging control, which typically produces wide, coherent soundstages. The speaker's slim, tall cabinet and digital crossover architecture favour stable, well-focused images and good depth. Expect superior placement/angle flexibility due to DSP-controlled dispersion.
Dynamics
90/100
Generous amplifier headroom (two bridged 100W Class D stages) and a 114dB peak SPL spec indicate excellent macro- and micro-dynamic capability for the form factor. Active amplification per section reduces compression and supports punchy transients. The DSP control also helps maintain clarity at high output levels.
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Build Quality
91/100
At 10 kg and a slender 800mm cabinet, the DSP520.2 appears robustly engineered with professional-grade connectors (SpeakerLink RJ45, RS232) and dedicated rear electronics. Meridian's product history and the detailed front-panel controls/LEDs suggest high-quality internal components and finish. Expect solid bracing and well-implemented thermal/mechanical design for an active DSP speaker.
Features Connectivity
92/100
Rich active feature set: Meridian SpeakerLink RJ45 I/O supporting 32–96kHz/24-bit, RS232 control and front-panel configuration options. Integrated DSP, digital I/O and system control make it easy to integrate into digitally native systems and pro/home installations. Connectivity is a clear strong point relative to passive bookshelf norms.
Value for Money
75/100
Price was not provided (price=N/A), so value assessment is conservative. Technically impressive (active DSP, strong amps, 40Hz extension), but high score would require price context or reviewer language calling it a 'best at the price' option. Compared to peers in the active DSP standmount class, it appears feature-rich but likely at a premium.
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