I second the new DB99's from Von Schweikert. They can be had within the constraints of your budget. Georgeous to view, they are articulate, lush, with plenty of low-end response (12lb 10" woofer, driven by a class AB internal amp.)Best sound at CES in my opinion. www.vonschweikert.com
The Merlins are a 2 way speaker design. Tho the tweeter is a good one (they image quite nicely) the mid/low-end response really needs dedicated drivers. Midrange voicing is terrible with a distinct blur. Look at the Mid/bass driver,,,,, the paper cone is packed with heavy tar
to lesson vibration, but their is a delayed resonance, vibration,, ringing affect. Hovland no longer uses the Merlins to highlight their superb electronics for good reason.
The Quads produced great sounds at the show. Off axis listening remains a challenge though, and if you tastes require slam and punch when called upon,, they fall just short.
Oh yeah, read the www.enjoythemusic.com review of the DB100's, the 99's big brother. The 99's are the 100's in a smaller much more attractive package.
Jack
The Merlins are a 2 way speaker design. Tho the tweeter is a good one (they image quite nicely) the mid/low-end response really needs dedicated drivers. Midrange voicing is terrible with a distinct blur. Look at the Mid/bass driver,,,,, the paper cone is packed with heavy tar
to lesson vibration, but their is a delayed resonance, vibration,, ringing affect. Hovland no longer uses the Merlins to highlight their superb electronics for good reason.
The Quads produced great sounds at the show. Off axis listening remains a challenge though, and if you tastes require slam and punch when called upon,, they fall just short.
Oh yeah, read the www.enjoythemusic.com review of the DB100's, the 99's big brother. The 99's are the 100's in a smaller much more attractive package.
Jack