I have not heard them head to head, but I heard the Meridian in a store with Sim electronics and Aerial 10t's and Kimber cables. The Proceed I own, but it's a couple years old. My system at home is also Sim/Aerial, with Tice and Cardas cables. Even the rooms were similar. I like both these players alot. The Proceed is more forward in presentation, great detail and presence, and fantastic, tight, punchy bass. Compared to the 508, it's a little "digital," with some hardness in the upper mids and low treble. The Meridian is slightly richer harmonically, and more relaxed and distant in perspective, with less detail and topend extension. If you prefer to be blown back by your sound, it's the Proceed. If you prefer to lean into your sound, it's the Meridian. Really, a classic American versus Brit tradeoff.
