Meridian Explorer 2 Review | 130 Data compared

In a Stereophile review, the $299 Meridian Explorer2 is described as a highly capable USB-powered DAC/headphone amplifier that offers exceptional value, featuring significant internal upgrades over its predecessor, including a more powerful processor that upsamples inputs and implements a proprietary apodizing filter. Its standout capability is full MQA decoding, offering an affordable entry point for high-res streaming, though the device has a minor aesthetic quirk with a non-functional rubber foot. Regarding performance, while it functions well with standard files, the upsampling filter may require a slightly lower input level (-1dBFS) to prevent digital overload during high-frequency testing.

The Meridian Explorer 2 delivers a clean, balanced, and smooth audio performance that significantly upgrades standard laptop headphone outputs, according to What Hi-Fi?. Key strengths include native MQA support for high-res streaming and solid construction, though it is limited by a lack of smartphone compatibility and a relaxed sound signature that may lack energy for some listeners.

The Master Switch praises the Meridian Audio Explorer2 USB DAC for delivering exceptional, airy sound quality, a wide soundstage, and native MQA processing capability. While its sleek, durable aluminum design and high-quality pouch are highlighted as pros, the device is limited by its complete lack of support for smartphones or tablets. Additionally, the review notes that the practical utility of its MQA support is reduced by the limited availability of MQA files compared to other high-resolution formats.

The Meridian Explorer 2 is a compact, aluminum-housed USB DAC/amp praised for high-resolution audio, MQA decoding, and an expansive soundstage. Pros include its 0.47Ω output impedance, excellent mid-to-high frequency detail, and smart, strain-reducing cable design. Cons identified include high power draw, which limits the unit to PC/Mac use rather than mobile, and a lack of volume control on the dedicated line output.

The Meridian Audio Explorer 2 is a pocket-sized, UK-made USB DAC/headphone amplifier that enhances its predecessor with greater DSP power and full MQA decoding capabilities. Pros include an aggressive £199 price point, premium aluminum construction, and plug-and-play functionality for Mac/Linux. However, the device requires driver downloads for Windows, is limited by current MQA music availability, and lacks native DSD support for extreme high-res audiophiles.

The TechHive review characterizes the Meridian Explorer2 USB DAC as an affordable, high-performance solution for high-resolution audio, capable of natively decoding MQA and FLAC tracks up to 24-bit/192kHz. Pros include its budget-friendly price point, versatile headphone and line-level outputs, and superior sound reproduction. Conversely, cons involve limited USB-only connectivity, lack of DSD file support, and the current scarcity of accessible MQA music content.

The Stereo Times review characterizes the Meridian Explorer 2 as a highly portable USB DAC delivering high-end studio performance, with a key advantage being its pioneering Master Quality Authenticated (MQA) technology for efficient, high-fidelity audio reproduction. The device features dual 3.5mm outputs—a dedicated line-out and a headphone jack—and offers an impressively low 0.47 Ohm output impedance, although its MQA benefits are contingent upon supported, high-fidelity hardware.

The AVForums review praises the Meridian Explorer 2 as a compact, portable USB DAC that delivers a smooth, balanced, and detailed audio upgrade, largely due to its full MQA decoding capability. While it excels with its asynchronous design and dedicated outputs, the DAC lacks physical volume controls—relying on computer software—and misses the optical output found on its predecessor, restricting it strictly to analog connections.

The Meridian Explorer2, reviewed at Best of High End, is a sleek English-manufactured USB DAC that delivers impressive, warm audio with high-end headphones, featuring, simple plug-and-play functionality and useful LED resolution indicators. While offering exceptional soundstage and emotional vocal presence, the device exhibits drawbacks such as a collapse in soundstage and loss of detail when switching from high-resolution to standard streams, along with a 2V fixed output that offers limited versatility.