need help with Merlin vsm mme for home theater

I would call Bobby at Merlin, I'm sure he would be happy to guide you through this. Not sure why, but I can't recall hearing from anyone that was using the Merlins through an AVR, which doesn't mean it is not being done....

I just came across Bobby's post here and it answers my question.
I did see a post of someone using an Arcam avr350 with the vsm's and happy with it probably using bams as well.
thank you for your feedback.

http://forum.audiogon.com/cgi-bin/fr.pl?cspkr&1052012313&read&keyw&zzoctave

I'm sure it can be done. I don't think the system is going to sound as good as it could with an AVR (i.e., as it would with a higher quality pre and amp - or integrated). You could get the speakers without the BAMs and use a subwoofer as well. One advantage of the BAM is the roll-off in the very deep bass; because of this, distortion in the mid-range is reduced with use of the BAM (the VSM is a two-way speaker, and both bass and mid-range are produced by the same driver).

Having said that, I'll add that I am using TSMs with a low to moderately priced integrated in my video-only system. While sometimes I certainly "notice" the lower quality amplification, it's good enough for me for video. My bias is to use the best and most neutral speaker possible; and then work to tweak the rest of the system to create the best sound possible, e.g., using room treatments, careful speaker position, etc. For that reason, I like your idea of using the VSMs. By the way, if you want really deep, pounding bass - e.g., for explosions, special effects, etc - I think you would want to go with a subwoofer. And if you want to play loud movies very loudly in a big room, you *may* want to consider a three-way speaker (see talking to Merlin below).

Oh yeah, the RCs: I forget what the acronym stands for, but they are "jumpers" which reduce distortion from the amplifier. They attach to the speaker terminals.

Finally, I agree with Pubul, and suggest you call Merlin (Bobby) to discuss what you are trying to achieve. My experience tells me he will be happy to help, even if you are considering buying used VSMs. At this level of performance and price, I think it worth getting the best advice and suggestions you can.

jfz, your post is very conforting because I am thinking of buying the Merlin vsm mme from a relative who bought them from Bobby and was'nt sure if I sould ask Bobby about the bams so thank you for that.
As you say if its a matter of tweaking I'll try to crossover at the low end of the vsm's say at 40Hz? and keep trying I will probably get the bams just in case.
My room is 20x20x12-15 (angle ceiling) I beleive the vsm's will be fine.
Thank you for the great post it also brought back my hopes of getting them, I'm excited about that.

Bobby has a loyal following because he is loyal to his customers and his product - he wants you to have a good experience with your Merlins, know that satisfied customers help create more customers over time. Bobby is a great designer, the Merlins are very well sorted speakers - no flavor of the month, and Bobby is very helpful when you reach out. He may very well reply here before you get a hold of him.....