Meridian DSP520.2 Active In-Wall Speaker

The DSP520.2 is Meridian's full-range active in-wall loudspeaker — 800mm tall, 100mm deep, and capable of 114dB peak SPL from 40Hz without a subwoofer. It disappears into a wall while delivering performance that most visible loudspeakers cannot match. There is no passive crossover, no external amplifier required, and no compromise in Meridian's DSP processing. This is a complete, self-contained Meridian active loudspeaker in an architectural format.

Its L+R mode allows a single DSP520.2 to function as a powerful soundbar solution — reproducing a full stereo mix from one cabinet — making it exceptionally versatile for installations beneath a screen or in spaces where a pair is not practical. Timbre-matched to the DSP320.2 and DSP640.2. See the full Meridian range we stock.

Drive Units and Amplification

The DSP520.2 houses two drive units: a 140mm long-throw bass driver and an 85mm wide-range driver with neodymium magnet. Each is fed by a bridged pair of Class-D amplifiers capable of 100 watts into 8 ohms — four amplifier channels in total per speaker. The neodymium magnet on the wide-range driver reduces weight whilst maintaining magnetic force, contributing to the ultra-shallow 100mm depth that makes installation straightforward in standard wall construction.

Bass extension reaches 40Hz — genuine low-frequency performance with no need for a separate subwoofer in most installations. Peak SPL is 114dB at 1m.

DSP Technologies

The DSP520.2 is powered by Meridian's CLASS-M DSP engine and implements nine signal processing technologies:

Full Frequency Alignment (FFA) corrects group delay across the frequency range so all frequencies arrive at the listener's ear simultaneously. Enabled by default.

Bespoke Signal Mapping applies tailored crossover filters designed specifically for the 140mm bass driver and 85mm wide-range driver in this cabinet.

E3 Bass (Expand, Extend, Enhance) applies three-stage filter processing to extract bass performance beyond what the cabinet depth would otherwise permit. The 40Hz extension in a 100mm-deep in-wall speaker is a direct result of this technology.

Image Elevation psychoacoustically raises the perceived sound image to the centre of a screen, with three selectable levels (minimum, medium, maximum) via system menus or RS232. Essential for in-wall placements alongside or below a display.

HPA (High Powered Array) minimises destructive interference when multiple DSP520.2 units are deployed in an array configuration — relevant for larger rooms or commercial installations.

Q-Sync minimises jitter through Meridian's FIFO buffering, preserving timing through the digital signal path.

True Time eliminates pre-ringing from digital filters for cleaner transients and more natural musical decay.

True Link provides encrypted high-definition audio transfer over SpeakerLink with minimum clock signal degradation.

Pro-Active Bass and Pro-Active Thermal protect the drive units from mechanical and thermal stress at high output levels.

Connectivity and Installation

The DSP520.2 connects via SpeakerLink (RJ45) — input and output sockets allow daisy-chain configuration throughout a Meridian system. An RS232 socket (3.5mm minijack) provides integration with third-party control systems. An IR window is included, with the IR receiver switchable on or off.

The channel selector offers Left/Centre, Right, and L+R positions. In a surround system, the DSP520.2 can be set as "Small" (bass management diverted to subwoofers) or "Large" (full-range operation) depending on the system configuration.

Installation depth is 100mm excluding the rough-in frame, fitting standard wall construction without special preparation.

Technical Specifications

Who Is It For?

The DSP520.2 is ideal for living rooms, home cinema rooms, and dedicated listening spaces where a flush-wall installation is preferred. Its 40Hz bass extension and 114dB SPL mean it performs as a primary speaker, not a fill speaker. The L+R mode makes it a compelling single-speaker solution for spaces beneath a widescreen display. For larger rooms needing deeper bass or higher output, the DSP640.2 is the natural step up.

Buying from Martin's Hi-Fi

Martins Hi-Fi has a long-standing relationship with Meridian and extensive experience designing and installing systems built around their in-wall range. We can advise on placement, system design, Image Elevation settings, and how the DSP520.2 integrates within a wider Meridian or third-party control system.

Contact Dave or Chris at info@martinshifi.co.uk, call 01603 627010, or WhatsApp on 07554 687137. You can read more about how we work on our Why Martin's page. We are at 85–91 Ber Street, Norwich, NR1 3EY.

Contact: info@martinshifi.co.uk | 01603 627010 | WhatsApp: 07554 687137 | 85–91 Ber Street, Norwich, NR1 3EY