Matching Merlin VSM's with a Cary SLI-80

Trya Acoustic Zen Adagio with the SLI-80...a wonderful match and certainly a better value$$$.

Do you already own the merlins?

The Merlin VSM's in either SE, M, or MX only need about 40 watts for most listening. maybe 80-100 watts for BIG symphonic works at loud volumes in a larger room........ So wattage wise, the Cary definitely works well. Tube rolling to taste. I am more a Manley or Blue Circle or Joule kind of man. But the Cary might be a last stop for you, as it does soundstage well, and is musical as all get out. Maybe Cardas Neutral Ref, Golden Ref, Golden Presence, or even Tg Audio speaker cables and your choice of IC's based on sources and Ac cords.......

I used VSM SEs plus BAM with the 10ish watt Cary 300B monos in a medium sized room with GREAT success, subject to ultimate spl limitations. This combo produced the best vocal representation I've heard. Can't speak to the SLI though.

Marty

PS I understand that later versions of the VSM may not be quite as friendly to low wattage SET amps.

Yes I already own the VSM's and made the decision to go with the Cary we'll see. The merlins seem a little bright at times and I feel the cary is more laid back and should compliment them.