What defines an all-in-one home speaker system starts with the connectivity options that are available. The cutting-edge Meridian Ellipse doesn't disappoint in that regard. On the wireless side, the specifications detail Bluetooth 5.3 (with SBC and AAC) and Wi-Fi dual band, plus wired Ethernet connectivity. This network interface is an ideal way to ensure stable access to streaming services, and the Ellipse will automatically switch to using that network, overriding any Wi-Fi connection, once a valid connection is established.
Otherwise there are two USB inputs, including an old USB type A (that many will use to connect an existing library or storage device) and a modern USB-C interface, which supports up to 24-bit/192kHz sources. There's also a hybrid 3.5mm minijack socket which can accept either a stereo analog or a mini-Toslink optical plug (with support for 24-bit/96kHz digital). A physical button toggles between the input options without the need to use the control app.
With these wired and wireless connectivity options, the system supports AirPlay 2, Google Cast, native streaming from Spotify Connect and TIDAL Connect, and will act as both a Roon Ready and UPnP renderer. When comparing to several other systems that have been launched recently in the market, the only option that the Ellipse doesn't include is HDMI. And Meridian says this is deliberate, and their website clearly states: "The Ellipse is designed as a wireless streaming speaker, and is not a soundbar."
Meridian describes the new Ellipse as a high-performance streaming speaker that is able to produce "a natural, authentic and lifelike sound which is immersive and room-filling." The Ellipse cabinet is the result of combining material science and computer modeling, leveraging acoustic benefits and aesthetic properties. "Multiple manufacturing processes are involved in achieving the goal of an extremely rigid and inert cabinet that offers incredible dynamic integrity. Whatever the volume level, the cabinet doesn’t resonate or interfere with sound quality," they state.
The speaker design features three drivers mounted in individual chambers to provide acoustic isolation from each other. Two 3.5" (90mm) full-range drivers generate the left and right channels, while a custom long-throw ‘racetrack’ driver reinforces the low-frequencies in the center. All electronics are isolated from the main enclosure, mounted on its own die-cast aluminum chassis base, where the powerful DSP circuitry, high-quality D/A conversion and three channels of Class-D amplification are located.
Thanks to Meridians DSP mastery, the bass response is surprising and the Ellipse has complete control over the sound it plays. "Ellipse is a complete Meridian system in a compact form factor. It is a distillation of everything we do, and it enables you to experience Meridian's renowned sound quality in any room," the company states.
To understand what's in play, it's important to recognize that Meridian does more business by supplying audio designs and specifically signal processing to many other consumer brands, as well as designing premium audio automotive systems, than it does from selling its own branded products. Just at CES 2024, Meridian unveiled a new generation of DSP audio technologies developed by the company's Engineered by Meridian (EbM) consultancy division, with new DSP modules that can be applied to multiple products and environments including cinema, luxury yachts, soundbars and headphones.
This included the new "Bass and Space" technology that increases the sense of soundstage that is used in the Ellipse. This processing approach takes into account the physical configuration of the Ellipse and applies frequency and signal-specific processing to widen the stereo image, avoiding phase artifacts that typically are noticeable in previous approaches.
As an all-in-one wireless DSP streaming speaker, the Meridian Ellipse benefits highly from the company's integrated development approach that includes their Precision Sonic Transport concept, the first implementation of its R2 Electronics Platform, and the Atlas software core that creates a unified platform for all Meridian audio and DSP technologies.
"Ellipse represents a luxury lifestyle product that seamlessly combines aesthetics with performance," comments Natalie Reynolds, Head of Product at Meridian. "Its graceful curves and smooth, pebble-like finish ensure effortless integration into any decor, offering an engaging and tactile experience.
"This distinctive elliptical design is featured throughout the Meridian product range, including the flagship DSP8000 XE and the acclaimed DSP9. Throughout this new product, elliptical motifs persist, such as the intricate spiraling pattern of the metal grille's elliptical perforations. Ellipse is elegantly elevated on curvaceous feet, embodying a harmonious blend of form and function, nothing is extraneous, it just looks right."
The final aspect that deserves attention is the fact that the Ellipse is easy to use – straight out of the box. With multiple control options, including the easy-to-use Meridian Control app and seamless integration with premium streaming apps, but also through the illuminated touch controls built into the top of the unit. There is also an infrared receiver for use with a Meridian System Remote. The Ellipse is also ready to be integrated within automated smart home projects, supporting Crestron Home, Control4, Nice and RTI IP control.
At its announced retail price level of USD $3,000 the Ellipse faces tough competition in the market, with an increasing number of all-in-one streaming systems from renowned brands available for much less. The difference is in the way the Ellipse was designed - as a speaker first. As Meridian says, the Ellipse redefines what can be achieved from a product of its size. But this means that potential buyers will need to listen to the Ellipse in order to judge by themselves, which isn't always easy.
www.meridian-audio.com
