502 - Hi-Fi MERIDIAN - Free user manual and instructions

Product Type	Analogue Controller (Preamplifier)
Dimensions	88 x 321 x 332 mm (3.46 x 12.64 x 13.07 in)
Weight	5 kg (10 lbs)
Power Consumption	20 VA
Audio Inputs	7 total: 4 unbalanced (RCA), 3 balanced (XLR)
Audio Outputs	Balanced main out (XLR), unbalanced main out (RCA), 2 tape outputs (RCA)
Display	8-character alphanumeric
Volume Control	1 dB steps, range 1-99 dB
Phono Stage	Optional MM or MC modules for LP input (A1)
Sensitivity Adjustment	-15 to +15 dB per source
Input Impedance (High-level)	20 kΩ
Total Harmonic Distortion	< 0.01%
Signal-to-Noise Ratio (High-level)	> 96 dB
Communications	2 x 5-pin 240° DIN, RS232
Remote Control	Meridian System Remote (compatible)
Two-Room Capability	Yes (Type 3 configuration)
Finish	Black textured enamel and glass
Fuse Rating	See rating plate on base; includes spare in drawer
Cleaning	Disconnect power; use slightly damp cloth; no abrasives
Service	No user-serviceable parts; return to dealer

Frequently Asked Questions - 502 MERIDIAN

How do I connect the Meridian 502 to my power amplifier?

Use the balanced MAIN OUT (XLR) if your power amplifier supports balanced inputs, or the unbalanced MAIN OUT (RCA) for standard connections. For Meridian 557, connect XLR; for 555, use RCA phono.

How can I adjust the input sensitivity to match different sources?

Enter level programming mode by holding Mute while powering on. Then select the source and use ▲/▼ to adjust gain from -15 to +15 dB. Set the loudest source as reference (0 dB) and match others.

What should I do if I hear hum on the LP input?

Check the turntable grounding: connect the tonearm ground wire to the technical ground on the controller. Ensure no other equipment is too close to the turntable or left side of the 502.

How do I set up a two-room system with the 502?

Connect the TAPE OUT 2 of the main room controller to the A2 input of the 502 in the second room. Configure the 502 as Type 3 (hold Off while powering on, select Type 3). The main room should be Type 1.

Can I record from one source while listening to another?

Yes. Press Copy repeatedly until the display shows the source you want to record (e.g., Copy RD). The tape output will then feed that source, while you can select any other source for listening.

How do I change the displayed label for a source?

Enter configuration mode by holding Display while powering on. Use Source to select the source, then Copy until you see the label option. Use ▲/▼ to choose from over 50 labels.

What is the correct way to clean the 502?

Disconnect power first. Use a slightly damp cloth for the case, display, and keypad. Do not use abrasive cleaners. For audio connections, unplug and reconnect yearly; gold-plated plugs require no cleaning.

How do I replace the mains fuse?

Remove the IEC power cord, then pull out the fuse drawer beside the inlet. Replace with a fuse of the same rating (see base plate). The drawer includes a spare fuse.

Why is my remote not controlling the 502?

Ensure all Meridian units are connected via COMMS leads. If using 600/200 Series, set all 500 Series units to Type 2 (hold Off while powering on, select Type 2). Run automatic setup by pressing Clear on the remote.

What are the standard default source assignments?

Default Type 1 assigns: CD (A5 balanced), Radio (A3), LP (A1), TV (A4), Tape1 (A2), Tape2 (A7 balanced), CDR (A6 balanced). Other sources (Cable, Text, VCR1, VCR2, LD) are available and configurable.

USER MANUAL 502 MERIDIAN

Meridian 502 Analogue Controller

Sales and service in the UK

Meridian Audio Ltd

Stonehill

Stukeley Meadows

Cambs

PE18 6ED

England

Tel [phone]

Fax [phone]

World Wide Web

http://www.meridian.co.uk

Sales and service in the USA

Meridian America Inc

3800 Camp Creek Parkway

Building 2400

Suite 112

Atlanta

GA 30331

Tel [phone]

Fax [phone]

Designed and

manufactured in the UK by

Digital Gramophone and Wireless Ltd

Stonehill

Stukeley Meadows

Cambs

PE18 6ED

England

Copyright © 1993–1996

Digital Gramophone and Wireless Ltd

Part no: 502/2

This guide was produced by

Human-Computer Interface Ltd,

Cambridge, England.

Contents

Introduction 1

Introduces the 502 Analogue Controller, and provides an overview of the other products available in the Meridian 500 Series.

The Meridian 500 Series .... 2

Sample configurations ...... 3

Specification and accessories ...... 6

Using the analogue controller 7

Provides step-by-step instructions on how to operate the analogue controller, using either the front panel or the Meridian System Remote.

Front panel 8

Selecting a source 9

Adjusting the volume 10

Changing the display and balance ..... 11

Recording a source.... 12

Customising the analogue controller 13

Describes how to set up the analogue controller in your preferred configuration.

Choosing standard settings 14

Configuring the sources.... 16

Examples of configuring the sources 19

Programming levels 20

Specifying information about your system 22

Setting up the analogue controller 23

Describes how to unpack and install the analogue controller, and explains what you should do if your analogue controller requires servicing.

Unpacking 24

Connecting the analogue controller..... 25

Setting up a two-room system 29

Troubleshooting 30

Maintenance 32

Service and guarantee 33

Index 35

Introduction

In choosing the 502 Analogue Controller you have acquired a component that combines major advances in audio and engineering design. The 502 Analogue Controller is a dual mono preamplifier with a fully balanced signal path and an extremely high-quality power supply for ultra low distortion and noise. It provides seven audio inputs; four for sources with unbalanced outputs, and three for balanced sources. Each source can be individually adjusted for sensitivity, and identified on the eight-character alphanumeric display with a name of your choice. A very high quality MC or MM phono stage is available as an option for the dedicated LP input.

This guide is designed to enable you to obtain the best possible results from the unit, and it includes information about customising the unit to your own requirements.

If you have just purchased the 502 Analogue Controller you should first turn to the chapter Setting up the analogue controller, page 23, which explains how to unpack and install the analogue controller correctly.

The Meridian 500 Series

The Meridian 500 Series is a unique system of digital, analogue, and video components designed to meet the demand for absolute quality, ease of use, and lasting value.

The flexibility of the Meridian 500 Series is such that you can assemble a system as simple or as complex as you need, perfectly suited to your musical and environmental requirements, and with the ability to add to it or change it at a later date should your requirements change. The 500 Series is also compatible with the existing Meridian 200 Series and 600 Series components.

Each Meridian 500 Series component is housed in a matching slim line case. Front panel controls provide access to the most important functions, and the full range of functions is available from the Meridian System Remote using a simple and intuitive control interface.

500 Series communications

The Meridian 500 Series includes a sophisticated communications link, to ensure that any configuration of units will work together as a fully integrated system.

The 500 Series communications system allows you to control any combination of units using a single remote, and ensures that your commands from the remote are interpreted unambiguously. The communications system also allows you to extend your hi-fi system into two or three rooms, with the ability to control the sources in one room from the controller in another room.

Professional features

The 500 Series also includes features for professional users, including RS232 computer control and balanced connections.

The following pages give examples of four suggested configurations to illustrate the flexibility of the Meridian 500 Series.

Sample configurations

508 20-Bit CD Player

graph TD
    A["508"] --> B["502"]
    C["504"] --> D["557"]
    B --> E["A500"]
    D --> E
    E --> F["A500"]

The 508 20-Bit CD Player is an integrated CD transport and converter, providing both digital and analogue outputs.

The 508 20-Bit CD Player is ideally suited for use with the Meridian 557 Stereo Power Amplifier and A500 Loudspeakers, with control over the volume and source selection provided by the 502 Analogue Controller. These units provide balanced inputs and outputs, allowing a completely balanced system to be created.

500 Compact Disc Transport

graph LR
    A["500"] --> B["504"]
    B --> C["562"]
    C --> D["DSP5000DSP5000"]

The 500 Compact Disc Transport provides a precision digital output, and can drive DSP5000 Digital Loudspeakers directly.

A 562 Digital Control Unit can be added to cater for conventional analogue sources, and provide source selection between up to 12 different analogue or digital sources.

The 504 Stereo FM Tuner is an ideal addition to the system if radio reception is required.

566 20-Bit Digital to Analogue Converter

502 Analogue Controller

graph LR
    A["500"] --> B["566"]
    B --> C["502"]
    C --> D["557"]
    D --> E["A500"]
    E --> F["A500"]

The digital output provided by the 500 Compact Disc Transport can be decoded by the 566 20-Bit Digital to Analogue Converter to provide a high-quality audio output for use with a conventional audio preamplifier. The 566 20-Bit Digital to Analogue Converter can also decode digital signals from other sources, including LaserDisc players and Digital Audio Tape.

The 502 Analogue Controller is a full function preamplifier for use with any analogue source, and includes balanced inputs to allow you to take advantage of balanced sources, including the 566 20-Bit Digital to Analogue Converter. It provides balanced outputs which are ideal for use with the 557 Stereo Power Amplifier.

562V Multimedia Controller

graph LR
    A["500"] --> B["504"]
    B --> C["562V"]
    C --> D["LaserDisc"]
    C --> E["Video recorder"]
    C --> F["Satellite"]
    C --> G["Television"]
    H["DSP6000"] --> I["DSP6000"]
    J["DSP6000"] --> K["DSP6000"]

The 562V Multimedia Controller is the ideal control unit for use with the Meridian DSP6000 Digital Loudspeakers.
It provides direct digital inputs for digital sources, such as the 500 Compact Disc Transport and LaserDisc sound, together with precision Delta Sigma Analogue to Digital Conversion, for
conventional analogue sources such as the 504 Stereo FM Tuner and video sound.
It also includes video switching for CVBS and S-VHS signals, such as from a satellite receiver, LaserDisc player, or video recorder.

Specification and accessories

Specification

MM input option Sensitivity adjustable 0.5 – 17mV for 5cm/s @ 1kHz.

Overload point 47mV @ 1kHz.

Cartridge load 47kΩ || 100pF.

MC input option Sensitivity adjustable 38 - 1200×V for 5cm/s @ 1kHz.

Cartridge load 220Ω || 10nF.

A2 - A7 Inputs Sensitivity adjustable 27 - 840mV.

Input impedance 20kΩ.

Tape output Output 1.5V rms.

Main outputs Output 1.4V rms, 3V rms maximum.

Communications Two 5 pin 240° DIN sockets, RS232 interface.

Noise and hum Less than -96dB for high-level analogue inputs.

Less than -70dB for MM input.

Less than -60dB for MC input.

Distortion Less than 0.01% input to output.

Display Eight character display for current

source, volume, mute, and copy

source.

Finish Black textured enamel and glass.

Dimensions 88mm x 321mm x 332mm

(3.46" x 12.64" x 13.07").

Weight 5kg (10lbs).

Consumption 20VA.

Available accessories

The following accessories are available from your dealer:

○ MM mono phono modules.

○ MC mono phono modules.

○ Meridian System Remote.

○ Power cord Europe.

○ Power cord Canada and USA.

The MM and MC phono modules convert the LP audio input (A1) for use with a moving magnet or moving coil pickup, respectively.

Using the analogue controller

This chapter provides a summary of the functions of the analogue controller in order to identify the controls which you will use to operate the unit.

It also describes all aspects of using the analogue controller, from switching on and selecting a source, to recording a source.

Unless otherwise specified, each function is available from the front panel or the remote.

Front panel

1 Source

Selects the source.

2 Copy

Copies a selected source to the tape output.

3 Mute

Mutes the sound.

4 Display

Blanks the display.

5 ▼ (Decrease)

Decreases the volume.

6 ▲ (Increase)

Increases the volume.

7 Off

Switches to standby.

Selecting a source

During normal use the analogue controller should be left in the standby state. This uses a negligible amount of electricity, but ensures that the components of the analogue controller operate at maximum efficiency from the moment you start.

If you are not going to use the analogue controller for a period of several days you should switch the unit completely off, at the back panel, and disconnect it from the AC power supply.

To switch on from standby

- Press Source (front panel), or select a source by pressing the appropriate source key on the remote.

If the 502 Analogue Controller is part of a Meridian system, it will automatically switch on any other unit in the system.

To select a source

- Press Source (front panel) until the display shows the source you require, or press the appropriate source key on the remote.

The display shows the source, and volume setting; for example:

By default, the following seven sources are available:

Source Input

CD A5 (balanced)

Radio A3

LP A1

TV A4

Tape1 A2

Tape2 A7 (balanced)

CDR A6 (balanced)

To switch to standby

- Press Off on the front panel or the remote.

The display will show:

If you have other Meridian 500 Series equipment connected to the analogue controller, these units will also switch to standby.

Adjusting the volume

The 502 Analogue Controller allows you to adjust the volume in precise steps of 1dB, where 9dB is equivalent to doubling the loudness.

The current volume setting is displayed in dB on the front panel display, and can be varied in the range 1 – 99dB. When you first switch on the analogue controller the volume is set to 65, which is similar to the midway position of the rotary volume control on a conventional preamplifier.

To increase the volume

- Press ▲.

For example, the display will show:

To decrease the volume

- Press ▼.

For example, the display will show:

To mute the sound

- Press Mute.

The display will show:

To restore the sound

- Press Mute again.

Alternatively the sound will be restored if you adjust the volume.

Changing the display and balance

To change the display

- Press Display.

Each time you press Display the display will step between the following options:

Display option Example

Source and volume.

This is the usual display.

Blank.

Remote source display (two-room only).

To change the balance

You can adjust the sound balance on the 502 Analogue Controller using the following procedure.

Note: The balance can only be adjusted with the remote.

- Press ◀ (remote) to move the sound to the left.

The display will show the number of dBs added to the left channel:

- Press ▶ (remote) to move the sound to the right.

The display will show the number of dBs added to the right channel:

- Press ▼ (remote) to centre the balance.

The display will show:

Recording a source

The 502 Analogue Controller allows you to copy any one of the standard sources to the tape outputs, independently of the source you are listening to.

To copy a source to the tape output

- Press Copy.

Each time you press Copy the analogue controller will step between the following options:

Display Option

Copy Source. The current source is fed to the tape output.

Copy Mute. The tape output is muted.

Copies the first source to the tape output.

Steps through each source in turn, etc.

When Copy is set to anything other than Copy Source the Copy indicator is illuminated on the front panel.

For example, to record from the radio press Copy until the display shows:

You can now listen to a CD, by selecting the CD source, without affecting the recording.

Customising the analogue controller

This chapter explains how to customise the 502 Analogue Controller to your preferred configuration.

The simplest way of configuring the analogue controller is to choose one of the standard settings, which are designed to cater for the three most common configurations of sources and inputs.

Alternatively, you can configure each source individually to suit the other equipment in your system. You can choose the label used for each source, and balance the input sensitivities so that the sound level remains the same when you switch between sources.

Finally, the 502 Analogue Controller provides several settings that you can alter to optimise the way in which it works with the other equipment in your system.

Choosing standard settings

The 502 Analogue Controller provides three alternative standard settings, called Types, which configure all aspects of the analogue controller into the three most commonly needed configurations.

Choosing one of the six standard settings overrides any other configuration you may have performed, and so can be used to reset the configuration of the analogue controller.

By default, the analogue controller is supplied set to Type 1.

If you have a system containing only Meridian 500 Series units then you should choose Type 1 or 3. Choose Type 3 if you are using the analogue controller in the second room of a two-room system.

If your system includes any Meridian 600 or 200 Series units you should choose Type 2. For more information see To connect to Meridian 600 or 200 Series equipment, page 28.

To select a standard setting

• Switch off any power amplifiers that are connected to the analogue controller.
• Switch off the analogue controller, using the power switch on the back panel.
• Switch on the power again while holding down the Off key on the front panel.

The display will show:

Type

It will then show:

Type 1

- Press ▼ or ▲ to change the type number.

For example, to select Type 3 the display shows:

Type 3

• Switch off the analogue controller, using the power switch on the back panel.
• Switch on again to use the standard settings you have selected.

502 standard settings

The following table shows the options configured by the three standard Type settings on the 502 Analogue Controller:

Type
Source Label Input Gain Comms 1 2 3

CD CD A5 0dB 1 •	•	•
Radio RD A3 +2dB 2 •	•	•
LP LP A1 +2dB - •	•	•
TV TV A4 +8dB - •	•	•
Tape1 T1 A2 +2dB	- •	•	•
Tape2 T2 A7 +2dB	- •	•	•
CDR	CR A6 0dB 1 •		•
Cable Cb	A4 +8dB -				•
Text	TX A4 +8dB -				•
VCR1 V1 A2 +8dB -				•
VCR2 V2 A7 +8dB -				•
LD	LD	A1	+0dB	-		•

Configuring the sources

When the analogue controller is set to one of the standard settings the twelve source selection keys on the remote select the standard labels and inputs, as shown in the table on page 15.

If the configuration you want is not catered for by one of the standard settings, you can configure each source individually.

The 502 Analogue Controller provides 12 sources corresponding to the 12 source selection keys on the remote:

CD, Radio, LP, TV, Tape1, Tape2, CDR, Cable, Text, VCR1, VCR2, and LD.

For each source you can configure:

- The label used for it on the front panel display, from the alternative labels.

○ The audio input it selects.

○ Its sensitivity.

○ Whether or not it is a Tape source.

- The comms type and address, to identify other Meridian 500 Series equipment.

The procedure for doing this is as follows.

To configure a source

• Switch off the analogue controller, using the power switch on the back panel.
• Switch on the power again while holding down the Display key on the front panel.

The display will show:

Config

- Press Source until the left-hand pair of characters identifies the source you want to configure.

For example, to configure the CD source the display initially shows:

CD CD

- Press Copy (front panel), or ▶ and ◀ (remote), to step between options.

The right-hand pair of characters shows the current value of the option.

The options are summarised in the table shown on the next page.

To change an option

- Press ▲ or ▼ to step between the alternative values for the option.

When you have finished programming sources:

- Switch off the analogue controller, using the power switch on the back panel.

- Switch on again to restore normal operation.

Option Initial value Alternative values Explanation

Label	CD CD	CD, RD, LP, etc. See To change a source label, opposite.
Audio input	CD A5	A1 to A7, or LV. Choose A1 to A6 to specify the input, or LV to use the last valid input.
Sensitivity	CD -6dB	-15 to +15dB. Input gain offset. It can also be set with Gain Set; see Programming levels, page 20.
Tape	CD TP? N	Y or N. Defines the source as a tape input, so that it cannot be copied to the tape output. This prevents feedback.
Comms type	CD 1C	1C to 8C, or NC. Choose 1C for a Meridian CD player, 2C for a Meridian FM Tuner, or NC otherwise.
Address	CD 1A	1A to 8A. Allows you to have up to eight of each source type.

Examples of configuring the sources

The following examples illustrate how you can configure the source options to your own requirements.

To change a source label

- Display the source you want to configure, together with its current label, as described in the previous sections.

For example, to configure the Radio source label choose:

- Press ▲ or ▼ to step between the alternative labels.

For example, to use the label cable for the Radio source set it to:

Over 50 alternative labels are provided to allow you to choose the most appropriate ones for your sources.

To change the input for a source

- Display the source you want to configure, together with the current input, as described in the previous sections.

For example, to configure the CD input choose:

- Press ▼ or ▲ to choose the input.

For example, to use the unbalanced input A4 for the CD player:

Programming levels

The 502 Analogue Controller allows you to program the level of each source independently, to suit your other equipment, so that when you switch between sources the volume stays the same.

When you are programming levels the analogue controller operates as a preamplifier with a fixed volume setting equivalent to 65. This level is chosen to be comfortably loud on average sources. You can switch between sources and adjust the relevant input levels to achieve the setting you want.

You can increase the sensitivity of any source by up to 30 steps of 1dB. The loudest source, usually CD, should therefore be chosen as the reference.

To balance input levels

• Switch off any power amplifiers that are connected to the analogue controller.
• Switch off the analogue controller, using the power switch on the back panel.
• Switch on the power again while holding down the Mute key on the front panel.

The display will show:

- Release the Mute key.

The display will show the normal standby condition:

• Select the source that sounds loudest and make it your reference.
• Switch to another source in the usual way.

- Use the ▲ and ▼ keys to change the sensitivity.

For example, the display will show:

LP -4dB

• Switch between the source you are changing and the reference source until they sound equally loud.
• Repeat the procedure for your other sources.
• When you have finished programming levels, switch the power off and on again to restore the analogue controller to normal operation.

If you know the output level of your sources you can probably set the gains by calculation. The following table shows the correspondence between the gain and sensitivity on the standard audio inputs and on the LP inputs:

Gain A2-A7 LP MM LP MC

-15dB 840mV 17mV 1.2mV
-10dB 470mV 9.5mV 660 × V
-5dB 270mV 5.3mV 380 × V
0dB 150mV 3mV 210 × V
5dB 84mV 1.7mV 120 × V
10dB 47mV 950 × V	6	6		V
15dB 27mV 530 × V	3	8		V

Specifying information about your system

In addition to configuring the sources, and programming their levels, you can configure many other aspects of the operation of the 502 Analogue Controller to suit the way your system is set up, and the way in which you want to use it.

Note that any settings that you configure are reset to standard values when you choose one of the standard settings: see Choosing standard settings, page 14.

To configure the analogue controller

• Switch off the analogue controller, using the power switch on the back panel.
• Switch on the power again while holding down the Display key on the front panel.

The display will show:

It will then show the first configuration option:

Config

500

• Press Display to move between the options.
• Press ▲ or ▼ to change the value of the current option.

The table below shows the options you can configure.

Option Initial Value

Communications mode (500 or 200)	500
Controller mode (Auto, Con., or N.Con.)	Auto
System address (1-8)	S.A. 1
Product address (1-8)	P.A. 1
Volume mode (M, S, or N)	Vol. M
Copy address (2-room) (1 to 8)	C.A. 2
Source info display (2-room) (Y or N)	Dis. M

These settings are configured automatically to appropriate values when you choose one of the standard Type settings, and you should not normally need to alter them; see Choosing standard settings, page 14.

Setting up the analogue controller

This chapter explains how to install the 502 Analogue Controller. It describes what you should find when you unpack the analogue controller, how you should connect it to your other audio equipment, and the siting constraints.

Before you begin installation, you should ensure that your analogue controller is the correct voltage for your local AC supply. If it is not, do not try to install the analogue controller, and contact your dealer.

You should not make any connections to the analogue controller or to any other component in your system whilst the AC power supply is connected and switched on.

Unpacking

The 502 Analogue Controller comes in a box containing the following components:

○ 502 Analogue Controller.
○ 1 power cord.
○ 1 500 Series communications lead.
○ This manual.

You are advised to retain the packing in case you need to transport the unit.

To position the analogue controller

Do not place the analogue controller:

○ In direct sunlight.
○ Near heat sources, eg a radiator.
○ On top of a power amplifier, as the heat generated may damage the analogue controller.

However, it can be stacked on a 508 20-Bit CD Player and 504 Stereo FM Tuner, if you have these Meridian components in your system.

Radio interference

FCC Warning: This equipment generates and can radiate radio frequency energy and if not installed and used correctly in accordance with our instructions may cause interference to radio communications or radio and television reception. It has been type-tested and complies with the limits set out in Subpart J, Part 15 of FCC rules for a Class B computing device. These limits are intended to provide reasonable protection against such interference in home installations.

EEC: This product has been designed to comply with the limits set out in EN55013 and EN55020C.

Connecting the analogue controller

Back panel

Audio connections

The following table gives details of the six audio inputs:

Use this input To connect to this

A1 A turntable pickup with optional

MM/MC module.

A2 to A4 Other unbalanced audio sources.

A5 to A7 Audio sources with balanced (XLR) outputs.

The following table gives details of the audio outputs:

Use this output To connect to this

MAIN OUT (balanced) Power amplifier or active loudspeakers with balanced (XLR) inputs.

MAIN OUT (phono) Power amplifier or active loudspeakers with unbalanced inputs.

TAPE OUT 1 Tape recorder.

TAPE OUT 2 Second tape recorder, VCR, or second room in a two-room system.

The audio inputs should be connected using high-quality screened cable, taking care to connect the left and right channels correctly.

To connect to a tape recorder

• Connect the analogue output from the tape recorder to the TAPE 1 input on the analogue controller (or another input if you prefer).
• Connect one of the TAPE OUT outputs from the analogue controller to the analogue input on the tape recorder.

Note that the two tape outputs are of opposite phase, allowing them to be used in conjunction as a high quality balanced feed for a tape deck or the second room in a two-room system.

To connect to other Meridian 500 Series equipment

- Connect one of the COMMS sockets on the back panel of the analogue controller to one of the COMMS socket on another 500 Series unit, using the 500 comms lead provided with the other unit.

The sequence in which you connect the units is not important.

graph LR
    A["COMMS COMMS"] --> B["Node 1"]
    A --> C["Node 2"]
    D["COMMS COMMS"] --> E["Node 1"]
    D --> F["Node 2"]

Then configure the units with the following automatic setup procedure:

• Switch all the units to standby.
• Press Clear on the remote.

Each unit will display:

One unit will then be designated as the controller, and display:

Auto

Con.

This is the unit that will respond to the remote.

All the other units will be configured as non-controllers, and display:

N. Con.

Your system is now set up and ready for use.

- If, for any reason, the automatic setup does not give the configuration you want, restore the default operation by selecting Type 1 as described in To select a standard setting, page 14.

Note: Do not, under any circumstances, connect any equipment other than Meridian 500, 600, or 200 Series to the socket marked COMMS on the back of the analogue controller.

To connect to a 555 Stereo Power Amplifier

502 Analogue Controller 555 Stereo Power Amplifier

- Connect the phono sockets marked MAIN OUT L and R on the back panel of the 502 Analogue Controller to the INPUT sockets on the back panel of the 555 Stereo Power Amplifier.

To connect to a 557 Stereo Power Amplifier

- Connect the balanced sockets marked MAIN OUT on the back panel of the 502 Analogue Controller to the BALANCED INPUT sockets on the back panel of the 557 Stereo Power Amplifier, using an XLR lead.

To connect to Meridian 600 or 200 Series equipment

If your system includes any Meridian 600 or 200 Series units, with 600 COMMS or 200 COMMS sockets, you should set all the 500 Series units to 200 COMMS operation using the following procedure:

• Switch off the analogue controller, using the power switch on the back panel.
• Switch on the power again while holding down the Off key on the front panel.

The display will show the current Type setting:

Type 1

- Press ▲ or ▼ on the front panel to change the Type setting to Type 2.

The display will show:

Type 2

- Switch the power off and on again to restore the analogue controller to normal operation.

- To return to 500 COMMS operation repeat the above procedure, and select Type 1 or 3. For more information see Choosing standard settings, page 14.

Setting up a two-room system

The design of the Meridian 500 Series incorporates a powerful two-room capability, making it possible to link systems between two or more rooms.

The most usual configuration is to provide all the sources in the main room. The controller in the second room can then select any of the sources in the main room, independently of what the main room is listening to, and control the selected source.

The 502 Analogue Controller is an ideal choice as the controller for a second room, and is easy to set up using the two-room configuration option (Type 3). This makes it select all the sources from the main room, and displays information from the current source (such as track number or radio preset) on the front-panel display.

To set up a two-room system

graph LR
    A["502 Analogue Controller"] --> B["TAPE OUT"]
    B --> C["COMMS COMMS"]
    C --> D["Main room"]
    D --> E["Second room"]
    E --> F["A2"]
    G["Third room"] --> H["Three"]
    G --> I["Three"]

• Connect the 502 Analogue Controller's A2 inputs to the TAPE OUT 2 sockets of the controller in the main room.

The main room can use a second 502 Analogue Controller, a 501, 562, or 562V Control Unit, a 551 Integrated Amplifier, or a 541 Surround Controller.

• Configure the 502 Analogue Controller in the second room to Type 3; see Choosing standard settings, page 14.
• Configure the main room to an appropriate type; eg Type 1.

Troubleshooting

This section describes problems you may encounter when using the analogue controller, and includes suggested solutions.

If these suggestions fail to cure the problem, please contact your Meridian dealer for further assistance.

No lights are displayed when switching on

○ Check that your AC power supply is connected correctly.
- Check that the ON OFF switch on the back panel is in the ON position.
- Check that the fuse on the analogue controller back panel and the fuse in the unit's power plug have not blown; see To change the mains fuse, page 32.

There is hum on the LP input

The LP input is the most sensitive input on the analogue controller.

○ Check that the tone arm is connected to the technical ground of the analogue controller.
- Check that the tone arm is connected to the power ground in the turntable.
If you are using a magnetic pickup, check that there is not another piece of equipment too near to the turntable or the left-hand side of the analogue controller. If so, re-position the equipment to cure the problem.

There is hum on other inputs

○ Check your other equipment.
○ Consult your dealer.

There is interference on the radio and/or television when the analogue controller is switched on

Before following the steps below, ensure all units are switched off.

If this equipment does cause or suffer from interference to/from radio or television reception then the following measures should be tried:

• Reorient the receiving aerial (or antenna) or route the antenna cable of the receiver as far as possible from the 502 Analogue Controller and its cabling.
  ○ Ensure that the receiver uses well-screened antenna cable.
  ○ Relocate the receiver with respect to the analogue controller.
  ○ Connect the receiver and this product to different AC outlets.

Communication is not working between the 502 Analogue Controller and other Meridian products

• Check that all products are interconnected using the correct comms leads.
  ○ If the installation includes 200 Series or 600 Series units, check that all 500 Series units are set to 200 mode.

A source cannot be copied to the tape outputs

○ Check that you do not have the source set up as a Tape source; see Configuring the sources, page 16.

Maintenance

Cleaning

When cleaning the analogue controller bear in mind that the front of the analogue controller is plastic, and the display panel and lid are glass.

Disconnect the power cord before cleaning the unit.

Note: Do not use abrasive cleaners on any part of the analogue controller.

To clean the case, display panel, and keypad

- Use a slightly damp cloth.

Ensure that no water is allowed to get inside the case, and do not reconnect the power until you are certain that the analogue controller is completely dry.

To clean the audio and video connections

Most of the audio sockets on the back of the analogue controller are gold-plated and need no cleaning if gold-plated phono plugs

are used. Otherwise, it is recommended that you unplug and reconnect the plugs at least once a year. A proprietary contact cleaner can be used to some advantage.

To change the mains fuse

- Remove the mains connector, and pull out the drawer next to the power input to access the fuses.

Before replacing a blown fuse, if possible ascertain the cause of the failure.

The fuse drawer includes a spare fuse. This should be replaced by one of the same rating. See the plate on the base of the analogue controller for the correct fuse values.

Service and guarantee

Service

The Meridian 500 Series of hi-fi components have been carefully designed to give years of untroubled service. There are no user-serviceable parts inside the case, nor do the units require any form of maintenance.

In the unlikely event that your analogue controller fails to function correctly, it should be returned, in its original packaging, to your Meridian dealer.

In case of difficulty within the UK or USA please contact the appropriate sales and service address shown on page ii.

In case of difficulty outside the UK or USA, contact the importing agent for the territory. A list of Meridian agents abroad is available from Meridian Audio.

No responsibility can be accepted for the analogue controller whilst in transit to the factory or an agent, and customers are therefore advised to insure the unit.

When seeking service under guarantee, proof of the date of purchase will be required.

Guarantee

The 502 Analogue Controller is guaranteed against defects in material and workmanship for two years from the date of purchase.

The guarantee is void if the 502 Analogue Controller has been subject to misuse, accident, or negligence, or has been tampered with or modified in any way without the written authorisation of Meridian Audio Limited. Attempted servicing by unauthorised people may also invalidate this guarantee. Labour and carriage charges are not covered unless by local agreement.

Outside the UK, local warranty liability is restricted to equipment purchased within the territory. Our agents abroad are only under contractual obligation to service under guarantee equipment sold through them. They are entitled to make a non-refundable charge for any service carried out on other equipment.

This guarantee does not limit your statutory rights within the United Kingdom.

Index

A Accessories 6

Adjusting

balance 11

volume 10

B Back panel 25

audio connections 25

Balance

adjusting 11

centring 11

Balancing input levels 20

C Changing the display 11

Cleaning 32

the audio and video connections 32

the case 32

Components 24

Configuration options

communications mode 22

controller mode 22

product address 22

system address 22

volume mode 22

Configure the analogue

controller 22

Configuring sources 16

address 18

audio input 18

comms type 18

label 18

sensitivity 18

tape 18

Connecting

a two-room system 29

to a 555 Stereo Power Amplifier 27

to a 557 Stereo Power Amplifier 27

to a tape recorder 26

to Meridian 500 Series

equipment 26

to Meridian 600 and 200 Series

equipment 28

Copy Attenuate option 12

Copy Source option 12

Copying, a source 12

Customising the analogue

controller 13

D Digital output 25

Display 11

changing 11

F Front panel controls 8

Fuse, replacing 32

G Guarantee 33

H Hum problems 30

I Inputs, audio 25

Installing 24

Introduction 1

L Labels 19

Levels, programming 20

M Maintenance 32

MC phono module 6

Meridian 500 Series 2

500 Compact Disc

Transport 3, 4, 5

502 Analogue Controller 3, 4

504 Stereo FM Tuner 3, 5

508 20-Bit CD Player 3

557 Stereo Power Amplifier 3, 4

562 Digital Control Unit 3

562V Multimedia Controller 5

Meridian 500 Series (continued)

566 20-Bit Digital to Analogue Converter 4

communications 2

Meridian 500 Series operation, setting 26

Meridian 600 and 200 Series operation, setting 28

Meridian A500 Loudspeakers 3, 4

Meridian DSP5000 Digital Loudspeakers 3

Meridian DSP6000 Digital Loudspeakers 5

Meridian System Remote 2

MM phono module 6

Muting the sound 10

○ Optical EIAJ output 25

Outputs

audio 25

digital 25

optical EIAJ 25

P phono modules

MC 6

MM 6

Positioning 24

Programming levels 20

R Radio interference 24

Record a radio broadcast 12

Recording, a source 12

S Selecting, a source 9

Service 33

Setting up the analogue controller 23

for 500 Series operation 26

for 600 and 200 Series operation 28

Sound

muting 10

restoring 10

Source labels 19

Sources

changing label 19

configuring 16

copying 12

default 9

Sources (continued)

programming levels 20

recording 12

selecting 9

Specification 6

Standard settings

502 15

selecting 14

Standby mode 9

Switching on from standby 9

Switching to standby 9

T Tape recorder, connecting to 26

Troubleshooting 30

Two-room system, setting up 29

Types 28

502 15

selecting 14

U Unpacking 24

Using the analogue controller 7

V Volume

changing 10

display 10