2. speakers
  3. 193013-92685

Has anyone upgraded from Merlin TSMs?

I have scoured the web. I cannot find any comments, good or bad, from someone who has moved on from the TSMs. I have a pair, and quite like them, but the technology is 25+ years old. Wondering if things have progressed much over the Merlins. Maybe there is a reason I can't find anything. Chasing my tail?

troutbum
soix
9,791 posts
 

Great speakers. I believe Bobby used Dynaudio drivers and think they’ve upgraded those drivers at least a couple times since then so time marches on. If I was looking to make a meaningful upgrade from those I’d go with a used pair of original Joseph Audio Pulsars that should be around $3500-$4k, and if they don’t offer a significant improvement you can sell them for little/no loss so low risk. Just one idea FWIW.  There’s actually a nice pair available now I believe in beautiful Sapele wood finish…

https://www.ebay.com/itm/186915696094

marco1's avatar
marco1
576 posts
 

Merlin’s are still great speakers and still hard to beat for the price. I own the TSM Black Magic, the last version made before Bobby passed, and still use them at a beach house. In order to do better I went with QLN Prestige monitors for considerably more dollars. The Pulsars are a nice option too. But without upping the anti you probably would be chasing your tale.

celtic66
1,680 posts
 

I've the last version of TSM Black Magic with Master Zoebels on the terminals.  Great speaker and tough to match or even beat within the class.

I've also ATC SCM 20 passives.  Big leap in capital expenditure and decidedly better.  Why wouldn't they be?

The Merlins move well with improvements to what's placed in front of them.  Perhaps that's the best move.  Best success.

troutbum OP
6 posts
 

Celtic

Can you expand on your last paragraph?

 

Also, maybe I should upgrade my power. Presently using original version of the Billie amp. Thoughts?

More to discover