Ars Sonum / Merlin TSM-MX???

Dgarretson, I agree, it is not as good as it gets, and there are several excellent choices - CAT, Joule, Atmasphere, Ayre (SS) etc. But for $4,000, the fact that is is on the same playing field as some of the top separates is saying something. But your right, I'm not selling the CAT.

Agreed, when value is factored in, I don't think there's any pre/amp/speaker that approaches ARS/Merlin VSM-MX.

dave, i think what paul was really trying to say was that the fila amp is ideal/as good as it gets in many respects.
the amp has less than a 20 damping factor and less than 6 degrees of feedback which are both right on the money for the vsm needs. there is no doubt that there are bigger more powerful amps that will portray large scale/complicated ochestral works in a more convincing manner but on smaller works and less complicated recordings or at lower levels, the fila will be hard to beat because of its electrical properties and the selection of many parts used in or on the amp that match the vsm so well.
just my (and paul's) two cents.
bobby

Manley Labs should also be mentioned here. I've had quite a few experiences running different Manley amps with my TSM-MX. Using seperates like, 100/200 mono-blocks, Snappers, to the mighty Stingray, well not necessarily in that order, but you get my point, the presentation was juicy, punchy, and well balanced.
But that is all in the past now, for I sold everything, and placed an order for the Filarmonia.
Hearing the Ars/ VSM-MXe combo at the past CES show here in NY, only confirmed that I'm in for a treat.
Can't wait for the Ars to get here.