They're both excellent speakers, but telling us something about the rest of your system would help a lot in giving advice. The "sitting on end-tables" part of the equation doesn't sound too promising. And, there are less expensive speakers that are also very good, like Spendor S3/5's. It's like, if you're going to stick them on end tables, why buy such expensive speakers?
B&W Signature 805s v. Merlin TSM-Ms ?
I am looking for small, monitor-type high-end speakers to sit on end-tables in a 18x20 foot room. Wife doesn't want large and loud; I like clarity. I have a sub if necessary. I've heard the 805Sigs. and liked them, haven't heard the Merlins, though recommended to me. Suggestions/comments re these and/or others most welcome.