Is the Meridian 568 still good in 2005


I am just getting into home theater and am looking for a good processor. I have read a lot of good things about the Meridian 568mkII. Can anybody give advice on the Meridian or good alternatives. I want to stay in the under $2000 range.

Thanks,
-Pete
pete5171
The 568 is an all digital box. It does have a DAC and a digital volume control. Not sure if the 861 has an analog volume control or not.
Is the 568 DAC section competitive for two channel audio? What might it compete with? For example would it compete with a Meridian 563 or a 566, or is it an improvement on those? Big questions, I know, but any insights are appreciated.
I thinks the 568 is a step up from both. For sure the 563 and likely the 566 for 2 channel.