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This £275 asking price is a fair deal that sits right at the median of the recent used market for the Meridian 501 preamplifier, matching the £275 median from five comparable GBP listings where the 25th percentile is £259 and the 75th is £396.
The Meridian 501 is a well-regarded discrete preamp known for its clean, detailed sound and robust build, offering excellent value for enthusiasts seeking high-end British electronics without the flagship cost. At this price point, it represents a solid buying opportunity for anyone upgrading from consumer gear, provided the unit powers up cleanly and all controls function smoothly, as the lack of condition details is the only minor uncertainty to verify before committing.
Independent perspective — not a price guarantee. Always verify condition, accessories and provenance before purchase.
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.
