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Our Thoughts RADAR AI

This is a buyer’s market for the Meridian 501, and the £400 asking price is solidly fair, sitting just below the 75th percentile of £415 and above the median of £330 from your four recent GBP comps. It’s not a bargain, but it’s not ambitious either—this is a straightforward, honest price for a functioning unit in unknown condition, reflecting steady demand for this respected British control amp.

The 501 is a well-loved full-function preamp that excels in both 2-channel and AV setups, offering clean switching, precise level control, and Meridian’s signature low-noise, high-dynamic sound. At £400, it’s a worthwhile buy if it’s working cleanly, especially if it includes the remote or a phono stage like the 516, which adds real value. No caveats needed unless the condition turns out poor; at this price, a clean 501 is a genuine buying opportunity for anyone seeking a no-nonsense, high-performance control unit.

Independent perspective — not a price guarantee. Always verify condition, accessories and provenance before purchase.

About Meridian

Meridian Audio, founded in 1977 in Cambridgeshire, England, by industrial designer Allen Boothroyd and engineer Bob Stuart, emerged as a trailblazer in high-end audio. From its inception as Boothroyd Stuart, the company quickly distinguished itself through relentless innovation, pioneering digital signal processing (DSP) and becoming the first to deliver high-resolution digital active loudspeakers for domestic use, such as the groundbreaking M1 and D600 models.

The brand's product focus centers on premium home audio systems, including DSP loudspeakers with integrated amplification, active speakers, and high-resolution components engineered for superior sound fidelity. While rooted in hi-fi excellence, Meridian has masterfully expanded into bespoke automotive audio, crafting immersive systems for luxury marques like Land Rover, Jaguar, and McLaren, with signature 3D surround setups featuring up to 23 speakers tailored to vehicle acoustics.

Positioned firmly in the high-end market, Meridian commands respect among discerning audiophiles for its British-engineered precision, over 350 industry awards, and museum-worthy designs exhibited at the Victoria and Albert Museum and MoMA. It remains a benchmark for acoustic innovation, blending heritage craftsmanship with forward-thinking technology across home and automotive realms.

See all Meridian listings on RADAR.

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