I thought that I might resurrect this thread rather than starting a new one because of Shooks comment regarding starting off with the TSM’s. I too am considering Merlins. Unfortunately I have no way of auditioning them without traveling a pretty good distance. However, based on everything that I’ve read here on Audiogon, it appears that the Merlin speakers may be better suited to my current tube components than my present speakers. I also would like to start with the TSM’s to get a better idea of the Merlin sound. I have found that extensive home auditioning is the ONLY way to tell if a component is to your liking. Assuming that it is, my long range plan would be to purchase the VSM’s, and use the TSM’s for surrounds. My present system (for music) consists of a Conrad Johnson CT6 pre, two Music Reference RM10’s run in mono block, and an Audio Aero Capitol CDP. My present speakers are Totem Mani’s up front and Totem Model One’s for surrounds. I also use a Velodyne DD12 sub. Although the Mani’s will be a pretty tuff act to follow, the more I listen to the Mani’s the more I feel I’m not getting the dynamics that I might get from the Merlin’s. So Shooks (if you’re still there) or Bobby, or anyone else, your comments would be most appreciated.
Regards, Mark
Regards, Mark