Power Amplification
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Power Amplification
The Meridian G57 is our powerful Two Channel Power Amplifier. Suitable for a variety of applications the G57 includes both balanced XLR-3F analogue inputs and unbalanced phono inputs.
The unbalanced inputs are converted to balance before they enter the amplifier itself, using Meridian’s proprietary ‘Super Balanced’ technology. The G57 combines power, clarity and flexibility for the ultimate in 2-channel amplifier performance at any volume level.
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G57
The G57 is an award winning high resolution power amplifier. Derived from the same technology we use in our flagship DSP8000 this high power, ultra-low distortion, wide bandwidth power amplifier can comfortably drive any passive loudspeaker with control, fidelity and authority.
In normal mode, delivers 2 x 200 watts into 8 ohms continuously on both channels. In bridged mode, delivers 1 x >650 watts into 8 ohms or 1 x ~1000 watts into 4 ohms.
Features a capacitor-free signal path for fast, accurate bass and a unique ultra-low-feedback design for superb overall sound. Each channel delivers its audio from four pairs of high-powered output devices.
The elegant aluminium, steel and glass case houses the two independent amplifier assemblies, each with its own massive internal heatsink. A huge toroidal transformer and four highly-specified reservoir capacitors ensure amazing instantaneous power is available whenever it is required.
The signal path is balanced throughout - fed from either the XLR balanced inputs or from the "SuperBal" circuitry which converts unbalanced (single-ended) signals to balanced audio as soon as they enter the amplifier.
Features full protection against thermal overload, DC on its inputs and short-circuits on its outputs.
Both channels feature two pairs of binding-posts on their outputs to facilitate bi-wiring of loudspeakers with two sets of connection terminals.
The award winning G-Series high-resolution power amplifiers integrate the same technology we used within the Special Edition range of loudspeakers.
The G55 and G57 are high-power, ultra-low distortion, wide bandwidth power amplifiers that can comfortably drive any passive loudspeaker with control, fidelity and authority.
Here you will find a quick overview of the product highlights and features.
Here you will find installation information and operating instructions.
Here you will find a summary of the complete range of Meridian products in one document.
AUDIO INPUTS
Balanced on XLR-3F connectors
Unbalanced phono
AUDIO OUTPUTS
2 output sets per channel, terminal posts
PERFORMANCE
Distortion - less than 0.01% input to output
Signal/Noise -better than –100dB
POWER OUTPUT
2 channels at 200W into 8Ω, or 1 channel at >650W into 8Ω (bridge mode), ~1000W into 4Ω
TRIGGER
Wide voltage-range (5–30V, AC/DC) trigger input for remote standby/on switching
DISPLAY
Power/Fault indicator and per-channel operation LEDs
CONTROLS
Rear-panel power switch; per-channel switches for balanced or single-ended input; Bridge/Stereo mode switch
DIMENSIONS / WEIGHT
HEIGHT: 132mm [5.2in]
WIDTH: 440mm [17.32in]
DEPTH: 350mm [13.78in] plus connectors
WEIGHT: 24kg [53lbs]
RACK MOUNTING
Kit available from Meridian authorised dealers
POWER
Versions: 100, 110, 115, 220, 230, 240 Vac, 50/60Hz.
Standby 17VA, Idle 48VA, Both channels driven 600VA
The output impedance is 0.024Ω at 1kHz rising to 0.153Ω at 20kHz.
It can deliver both channels simultaneously with 200W into 8Ω and 330W into 4Ω.
In bridged mode, the G57 can deliver 620W into 8Ω and 1000W into 4Ω.
The 'Bridge Mode Select' switch should be set to 'On' and the two negative speaker terminals must be connected together. This can be done with the bridging-bar supplied with the amplifier or by using a short length of speaker cable of the appropriate gauge.
The main indicator LED goes red and the blue channel LEDs go out showing that the unit is offline. Once the cause of the thermal problem is removed, the amplifier can be reset by power cycling (switching the mains power off then back on again).
The amplifier can be brought out of Standby by applying any DC voltage between 5V and 30V to the trigger input.
Check the 'Bridge Mode Select' switch is set to 'Off'. If the switch is inadvertently switched to 'On', the amplifier’s left input is amplified normally, but the right channel input is ignored. Instead, an inverted version of the left input is fed to the right channel of the amplifier. This causes the sound from the amplifier to suffer as described.
Check the 'Unbalanced/Balanced' switches are set appropriately. If set incorrectly, no sound will be produced by the channel(s) concerned.
If the option is available, it is generally advisable to use balanced connections. The science behind balanced connections offers the potential for improved performance by achieving lower levels of noise on the input signal. Even if the sonic difference between the two types of connection is not overly apparent during casual listening tests, it can be reassuring to know that 'best-practice' has been observed.
There are two approaches to adding a second amplifier. The two amplifiers can be used in 'bridged' mode to provide more power to each loudspeaker. Although the output of the amplifiers is not improved in itself, the extra power can be beneficial when used with some loudspeaker designs. Or, if the loudspeakers are capable of being connected in a 'bi-amp' arrangement, this can be done. Bi-amping gives each amplifier channel a simpler load to drive. This can improve sound-quality with many loudspeaker designs.