508 vs Cary Audio Design 308T
The 308T's bit depth is 24-bit against the 508's 16-bit, its max sample rate 96 kHz against 44.1 kHz, and its signal-to-noise 90 dB against 93 dB. Both share thd (0.001%).
AI-generated product photo — not official manufacturer imagery.
DigitalCD PlayersDACsDiscontinued
Estimated price (community-sourced)
$895
Around — community and catalog average, updates slowly
About the 508
The Meridian 508 is a premium British-made CD player from the 1990s (1993-1998), available in versions with 19-bit, 20-bit (CS4329-KS), and 24-bit (CS4390/Crystal) dual-differential Delta Sigma converters. It features a Philips CDM-4/12.4/12.5 mechanism (3-beam laser in later models), discrete class A analog output stage, and supports both standalone playback and use as a high-quality CD transport. Housed in Meridian's 500 series mid-sized black enamel and glass chassis with brick loader tray. Known for refined, dynamic sound with excellent resolution, imaging, and detail retrieval. The 508.24 variant was highly acclaimed, earning Stereophile Class A rating. Discontinued due to transport parts unavailability.
Specifications
Digital Audio
DAC capabilities and digital audio processing
- Bit Depth
- 16-bit
- Max Sample Rate
- 44.1 kHz
- DAC Chip
- TDA1301/CS4329-KS/CS4390
Analog Output
Analog signal output specifications
- THD
- 0.001%
- SNR
- 93 dB
- Output Voltage
- 2.0V RMS
- Max Output Voltage
- 2.0V RMS
Connectivity
Input and output connections
- Digital Outputs
- Coaxial S/PDIF, Optical EIAJ/TosLink
- Analog Outputs
- Balanced XLR, Single-ended RCA
Physical Dimensions
Size, weight, and appearance
- Dimensions
- 321 × 88 × 332 mm (W × H × D)
- Weight
- 6.4 kg (14 lbs)
- Available Colors
- Black textured enamel and glass
Specifications are community-contributed and may not be accurate or complete. Verify all details with the manufacturer before making purchasing decisions. Terms & Conditions