I haven't had a Meridian 598, but I had the similar 506.24, and like Cerrot, found it too uninvolving. That said, I feel the same way about the Cambridge - I guess a component either hits "that spot" for you or doesn't, and neither of these players were "it". The Meridian is just too relaxed, laid back, even a bit grainy. The Cambridge doesn't have those issues, but it doesn't throw a realistic soundstage. Between the two, I'd say that I prefer the Cambridge.
I'd be looking at used units by Naim, Simaudio, Ayre (if you can find an original CX-7 around $1600). These units are just more entertaining to listen to and, IMHO, provide a more realistic feel of live music as compared with Meridian and Cambridge.
I'd be looking at used units by Naim, Simaudio, Ayre (if you can find an original CX-7 around $1600). These units are just more entertaining to listen to and, IMHO, provide a more realistic feel of live music as compared with Meridian and Cambridge.