Best tube integrated with Merlin TSM-MMI?

I would consider the Berning ZH270 as good as it gets, if you have only two sources.
I have since moved to the ZH230 with a Berning ZOTL Pre.
It works well.
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Class A amps may run them famously, this maybe true. Class A might help with the slightly nasal upper midrange I heard when I had them. I doubt you really meant infamously which means having a very bad reputation. I have heard them with the Berning ZH270 and agree with Egidius it is a fantastic combination. The Ars is good but not great in comparison.

Anybody tried the Eastern Electric M88 with the Merlins?

Egidius & Mechans, Please elaborate. What makes the Berning ZH270 so good in comparison with Ars and other amps? And given that all components have their strengths and weaknesses, What are the Bernings and the Ars?

Berning ZH270 is out of production.