Which used Merlin VSM offers best bang for buck??

Depends on what amp your will pair them with. If you are tube inclined, it's a broader question. If you use ss amp, the newer models are probably better suited.

I agree that the difference between BAM and SuperBAM was big. Your best bet is to speak with Bobby by phone, discuss your gear, budget and longer term thinking; he will lead you to a place where you will be comfortable.

IMO, avoid the flat black versions, as the clearcoat paints are indicative of future upgradability. Cheers,
Spencer

Spencer's question is on point, what amp? Will you stick to SS or move to tubes? It makes a diiffence. Now the thing to know is that the later revisions of this classic speaker are always improvements, the Super BAM being among the most important. If you know you will eventually want the best version, I would get the latest MXe, but if you are going to stick with SS amplification the MMe is proabably a good choice and saving you a bit of money.

You're kidding right? Just get the one you can afford- you can't *go* wrong...

Here's more "talk-soup" to wade through. According the "Head Magician" or the "Grand Puba"(if you grew up watching the "Flintsones"),the TSM-MMe/MXe sounds better than the VSM-SE/Millenium and the MX. There are some for sale as I write this.

Of course you can return used MXs w/BAM to factory for lead-free upgrade & SuperBAM-- or mod them yourself.