ME 550 power amplifier
Do not be misled by the modest size of the ME 550. Its incredible performance is typical of larger, and very much more expensive amplifiers, commonly known as 'high end'. The ME 550 has inherited the technological refinements of its stable-mates. As such, it delivers the extraordinary sound quality, dynamics, purity and reality that is the hallmark of all ME amplifiers.
The ME 550 features the ability to be bridged, turning the ME 550 from a 100 watt stereo amplifier into a 300 watt mono amplifier. This is simply achieved with the 'normal'/'bridge' toggle switch on the back panel. Bridging also enables ME 550 owners to effectively upgrade their system, simply by purchasing a second ME 550, thus trebling the available power.
Positioning each ME 550 adjacent to its respective loudspeaker, reduces speaker cable length, maximising sound quality. The ME 550 can be powered up by one of three methods providing the convenience and safety of a single power switch operation, with it's remote power on facility (audio signal, DC control wire, and front panel switch). The ME 550 is now an ideal upgrade for Home Theatre systems using a Surround Sound receiver as the starting point.
The amplifier's sophisticated cooling system draws the air from within a typical Music System Cabinet and expels it via the access holes normally provided for wiring. This cooling effect, will also significantly prolong the life of all other electronic components, CD's, records and tapes that are stored within the cabinet.
The ME 550 heritage is further augmented by its innovative features and facilities to establish it convincingly as a worthy carrier of the ME logo.
| Output Power |
2 x 100 watts RMS 8 ohms DC-20 KHZ
2 x 150 watts RMS 4 ohms DC-20 KHZ
1 x 300 watts RMS 8 ohms DC-20 KHZ |
| Voltage Gain |
30 dB (33dB Bridge Mode) |
| Maximum Output Voltage |
50 Volts (100 Volts Bridge Mode) |
| Maximum Output Current |
40 Amps peak |
| Input Impedance |
100k Ohms (unbalanced) |
| Phase |
Non Inverting - 0 degrees |
| Rise Time |
< 1 Microsecond |
| THD & IMD |
< 0.1% |
| Dynamic Headroom |
1.5 dB |
| Hum & Noise |
99 dB below rated output |
| Frequency Response |
DC - 150KHZ +/- 2dB |
| Energy Storage Matrix |
66,000 uF |
| Transformer |
500VA Toroid |
High Capacitance option (for Series II only) - this brings the total Energy Storage Matrix capacity to 160,000 micro Farads. It is suggested for larger speaker systems and those with multiple bass drivers or impedances of 4 ohms or less.
All specifications are subject to change to reflect design improvements.
