Meridian Launches Eight-Channel Digital Power Amp Meridian Audio has introduced Meridian 258, a dedicated rack-mount eight-channel power amplifier, which was previewed in September during CEDIA 2016. By RS Staff Published: November 14, 2016 ⋅ Updated: April 15, 2019 Meridian Audio has introduced Meridian 258, a dedicated rack-mount eight-channel power amplifier, which was previewed in September during CEDIA 2016. The 258 is compatible with any audio system and can provide a Hi-Res audio experience for multiroom audio systems, in almost any application, at a competitive price point. “The new Meridian 258 Eight Channel Power Amplifier delivers a premium experience in a small and efficient, cold-running chassis that’s easily integrated into multiroom audio systems and more,” said Ryan Donaher, Meridian America VP of sales and marketing. “As a brand that is committed to Hi-Res audio and delivering the best possible experience for any application, we understand the importance of seamless integration. That’s why our design and engineering team is bringing products like the Meridian 258 amplifier to market, and what gives the custom installation community a real opportunity to offer something tangibly better. Moreover, the Meridian 258 offers a fantastically powerful and efficient way to drive passive loudspeakers, at a price point that is profitable for the dealer and palatable by their customers.” The Meridian 258 Power Amplifier also offers significant reductions in the overall price, installation time, and operational cost of multi-room audio systems. Housed in a compact 1U high chassis, these small but powerful amplifiers take up minimal space in the rack. Built-in Class D amplifiers are highly efficient, with a low operating temperature that does not require an internal fan or any external cooling, thus negating the need for additional rack cooling mechanisms and eliminating the time and cost to do so. Aluminum construction combined with audiophile-grade components improves the lifetime and reliability of the product. The Meridian 258 is suitable for a wide range of applications and delivers >100W per channel into 4 ohms and >70W per channel into 8 ohms. Meridian has adopted an advanced linear power supply that provides high isolation from the AC supply. A short signal path within the 258 ensures complete signal purity and separation between channels.