Meridian 566 Instruction Manual

566 20-bit D to A Converter
The Meridian 566 is a stand-alone
two-channel Digital–Analogue
converter for the 500 Series. Four
inputs are provided including AES/EBU
and Toslink optical. Inputs can be
selected either from the front-panel
switches or via the Meridian Comms
network.
The selected input is stabilised via
Meridian’s proprietary twin phase-lock
loop which yields the lowest jitter in
the industry – around 1ps rms. This
unique PLL system was pioneered in
the 263, developed further in 563 and
now has reached a new level of
performance thanks to numerous
detailed developments.
The conversion system in 566 is a new
Delta-Sigma true 20-bit converter and
is based on an IC developed by Crystal
Semiconductor in consultation with
Meridian. The combination of low-jitter
clocking and this remarkable converter
is a sound that sets new standards for
transparency, sound stage and
dynamics.
In the 566, for the first time a Meridian
DAC has been given Comms capability.
This feature allows the 566 to be
remotely controlled in a complete
Meridian setup.
Meridian have a strong
history in stand-alone
Digital–Analogue
converters. The 566 is
the latest in a long
pedigree that began
with the famous 203
DAC in 1988.
The 566 incorporates
the best of Meridian’s
converter technology –
including the lowest
jitter and brand-new 20-
bit conversion. This is
without doubt the
finest sounding
converter to date.
Technical Data Sheet
566/1 – 23-10-96
Meridian Audio Limited,Stonehill, Stukeley Meadows, Huntingdon, Cambs, PE18 6ED, England.
Sales [phone] - Fax [phone]
WWW: http://www.meridian.co.uk

Performance
20-bit dynamic range
Linearity: better than –96dBFS
Jitter for 44.1kHz sampling, typically 1ps rms.
Inputs and outputs
3 phono digital inputs; 32kHz–48kHz
1 AES/EBU XLR digital input; 32kHz–48kHz (Parallel with D1)
1 Toslink optical input; 32kHz–48kHz
All digital inputs accept up to 20-bit precision
Audio outputs 4V nominal balanced (XLR) and 2Vunbalanced (phono)
Construction
Twin PLL; word-aligned for lowest jitter
Absolute Phase control
Precision Class A discrete audio amplification
Analogue de-emphasis network
High quality construction including use of partitioned 4-layer PCB, and precision capacitors.
On-board control microprocessor with non-volatile memory.
Full 500 Comms for system integration with Meridian components.
Rear-panel control for: Power On/Off
Front-panel controls and indicators for: Inputs (D1, D2, D3, Optical), Phase, Emphasis
Dimensions 88mm (3.46in) H, 321 (12.64) W, 332 (13.07) D - Weight 5kg (10lbs)
Meridian Audio Ltd reserve the right to change any product specification without prior notice
© Text and pictures 1996 Meridian Audio Limited
Technical Data Sheet
566/1 – 23-10-96