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Merlin VSM vs. Gallo Reference 2 or 3

Has anyone out there ever compared the sound of the Merlin VSM series of speakers to the Gallo Reference 2 or 3 speakers? I own the Gallo Reference 2 speakers and run them with a Berning ZH270 amp and Supratek Syrah tube preamp. I love the sound from this combo, but I am curious if anyone has heard the Merlins (any incarnation) and the Gallos (maybe at a CES show or in a system) in someones home. I know the Berning and Merlin is supposed to be a magic combo. I could never afford a new set of Merlins, but might consider a used set. What is the difference soundwise in the various in carnations of this speaker?
slowhand
tomryan
796 posts
 
Check the various threads here for lots of discussions about the VSMs in all the different iterations. Also check Stereophile website as they did a review a couple years ago of the latest version.
samac's avatar
samac
499 posts
 
Actually the Stereophile review is of the VSM Millenium. And from what I understand as good as the Millenium was the VSM-MM and VSM-MX are even better.

I auditioned the VSM-MM and it knocked my socks off. It will be my next speaker.

Cheers
sbank's avatar
sbank
3,378 posts
 
You can email member "banksfriend". He heard the VSM-MX at my place, and he has commented before on listening to the Gallos. Cheers,
Spencer
bluebull
269 posts
 
Slowhand
If you have the Berning ZH-270,is there any alternative speakerwise than the Merlins ?This conclusion is made by reading many threads and posts.
I am waiting for my Merlin VSM-MM's .Will be using the Pathos Logos amp(hybrid amp with ss output,therefore the choice of the MM above the MX version)However,am going to try some Quad 2 Mono's on them ,using the pre outs of the Logos.Will see how that works.OTL's unfortuanately not within my budget(Will also have to import the OTL's).
I think from what I have read that you really must try the Merlins with the Berning OTL.
Good Luck
Chris
slowhand OP
610 posts
 
Thanks for the input. I just heard from a friend in Dayton, Ohio, and he says he will be getting a pair of the VSM-MM's after the first of the year. I will make it a point to pack up my Berning amp and go up and hear them.
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