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Help me get the most out of my Merlin TSM MX

I have had these incredible monitors for over a year and I am still enamoured with there balance and refinement. I am going to sell off my second system that doesn't get used anymore and I want to put the funds into the Merlin system. I should have $1000 to spend.
My current system is as follows: Merlin TSM MX on Skylan stands,DIY parts express sub with Behringer feedback destroyer for room eq, speaker wire is Monster M-series CX2( Paul Speltz Anti-Cables on the way), Cayin A 50-T 35watt el34 integratedwith a Virtual Dynamics power cord, Harmonic Technology Truthlink ic,Macbook Pro,Apogee Duet Dac. I use this in conjunction with a HT setup so I can control the sub via Ht remote from the B&K AVR 202.
I am not sure which direction to go. Do I get the "e" upgrade done by Bobby? Do I replace the Cayin with another integrated in the $1700 range Or get into separates? There is nothing that I don't like about my current system. I just want to take it to the next level of performance. I am not interested in a cd player. These monitors are capable in reference systems and that is why I bought them to build my system around. I might move up to the VSM one day so I want my components to be in place if/when that day comes.
Thank you for your opinions!
Bob
rrboogie
bobbyapalkovic
729 posts
 
hi rrboogie,
i would get the mod done to the speakers to take them as far as you possibly can. then you can better match other items to them. the cost is incredibly inexpensive for what you get in return. call me at the factory for this discussion. 585 367 2390
a shotgun with the anti cable is not recommended, nor is it with any cable. the speaker is critically designed and you are openning yourself up to more issues by changing the spectral balance point and making the speaker sound leaner. use my lead free jumpers so you see the improvement possible with a single run of the anti to the bass. jumpers on top, lock the nut. then jumpers first to the tweeter and rc on next and lock the nut.
the speaker is the most important part of the system other than perhaps, the room. experience all you can with your system by making the speaker sound as good as it can. maybe you will not want to upgrade anything else. but give yourself the the chance to figure this out first hand.
best,
b
rbaker's avatar
rbaker
65 posts
 
I was in a similar situation and had consulted with Bobby-
he recommended the lead free upgrade of my TSM's.
The results were amazing-this is an inexpensive upgrade.
It is well worth it.
rrboogie OP
43 posts
 
I have a couple of months this summer where I could live without the speakers. I will call Bobby to discuss the details of the upgrade and lead times/turn around times. Until then I am going to buy some recommended speaker cables to have on hand and at that point decide which ones are the keepers after the "e" upgrade.
So, what other speaker cables can you recommend?
I can probably only afford one set of cables over $700 and a couple of pairs in the $200 to $400 range. I already have the Monster cable,Anti cable and some Audioquest live wire.
I have replaced the tubes in the Cayin to Mullard and GE five stars with excellent results.
Thanks for the suggestions everyone. Keep 'em coming!
usblues
1,217 posts
 
The battery upgrade and the jumpers were a big improvement to my VSM-MM's last summer.Highly recommended.Going to bring the speakers to the factory for the E-upgrade ASAP.You could do the same then work on the other components.Or sell and move into the VSM-MM's.Or.......you get the picture.There all keepers,good luck,Bob
cruz123
586 posts
 
I have the TSM-MMe's and use Acoustic Zen Satori speaker cables with great results. In regard to amps, I'm using a pair of VAC 70/70 Musicblocs that are excellent with the Merlins.
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