Merlin TSM comparisons

"what good is super transparency if the speakers are thin sounding"

If that is a problem, then adding a sub is a very practical and effective solution.

Bobby, can you explain what the role of the RC Network is? Is it a filter to keep out very high frequecies?

I can't see a sub solving the problem of a thin sounding speaker, it might help a little, but if the fundamental design of the speaker is flawed there is only so much a sub can do. The balancing act of detail and a too lean sound is a fragile one and the TSM's allow one to have their cake and eat it. This is where a talented speaker designer can make all the difference.

I wonder how the TSM might compare to the Magico monitor. Quite a difference in price, but I do find it hard to see how much better you could get than the Merlins, especially the VSMs which are essentially bookshelf/monitors with "integrated" stands. After many years of looking, I still have not found a speaker I prefer to the Merlins.

"but if the fundamental design of the speaker is flawed there is only so much a sub can do'

It depends on what is meant by "thinness", but thinness can result with a very good monitor that does what it does very well but does not attempt to plumb the depths for low end by design because that is not generally what monitors are designed to do, although there are always ways to stretch performance if desired.

Merlin uses an equalization circuit called the "BAM" I believe to good effect to wean more low end than most small monitors I believe much like the OHM speakers in my system use a similar circuit called a "sub bass activator".

I like that Bobby provides expertise and solutions for his customers like the BAM and the RC network (to help adapt the speakers better to more amps apparently) that allow users to get more out of his speakers in more common listener scenarios as needed. That is a value added service that might not be had from many vendors.