Specifications

Bob Stuart answers Questions about the Meridian 598
Page 13
Multichannel analogue input cards are available for 861. You can fit IA45 or IA40. You might
do this because you prefer to have the analogue output version of 598. Multichannel
analogue inputs on 861 are also useful to connect other sources which are always analogue
like 35mm projectors, SACD or third-party DVD-Audio players.
67 How do I connect a 598 to my 561 or 565?
561 does not have a multichannel input, therefore you should configure the 598 to provide a
2-channel output and to provide bitstreams for Dolby Digital and DTS. You would then
connect the Main Left/Right outputs of 598 to the decoder in the usual way. See Qs. 14 and
15.
If the 561 is fitted with a Tape Module then it can receive both 96kHz and MHR. Otherwise
you must select ‘Max Rate 48kHz’ and ‘MHR Neither’ under Audio Setup. In this case 598 will
playback the stereo version of DVD-Audio discs and perform high-quality downsampling on
96kHz material. You still get full access to the streams on CD and DVD and Meridian
decoding – which is the best! For more information see Qs. 12, 14 and 15.
598 with DSP speakers...?
68 Can I use 598 direct into Meridian DSP Loudspeakers?
Yes – and what a system! For the ultimate purist 2-channel system, connect the 598 directly
to a pair of DSP Loudspeakers. The new or upgraded versions of DSP speakers support
96kHz and MHR. Enjoy CD and DVD music as never before! See Q. 14.
You could connect a 598 directly to six Meridian Digital Loudspeakers to playback surround.
However in this case you do not get the essential benefits of bass management, level and
delay calibration and advanced surround modes that a surround controller like 568.2 would
provide.
69 Can I use 598 with 568.2 or 861 and DSP speakers?
Yes, the natural pairing with 598 will be one of Meridian’s advanced Surround
Controllers/Processors such as 861 or 568.2, and these systems work exquisitely with
Meridian DSP Loudspeakers. However in these systems the processor must be the system
controller. If you have an installation currently controlled by the DSP speakers then this must
be reconfigured in the software setup. Note: if the processor is hidden from view, then you will
need a 512 infrared pickup.
Configuration and Setup…?
70 Do I need to use a computer to set it up?
No, there is no computer setup. 598 is set up using the on-screen menu system.
71 Can its Region Code be changed?
Every DVD Player is required to have the correct Region Code. The Region Code for each
598 is held in its firmware. If your 598 has the wrong Region Code please contact your dealer.
72 Can I have a Region-free 598?
Not from us; every DVD Player is required to have a Region Code. It isn’t even a good idea
because more and more DVD discs are being authored to detect and reject region-free
players.