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Gallo Stradas vs. Merlin TSM-MXRs

I know this is a weird question, but I have an opportunity to purchase either Gallo Stradas or Merlin TSM-MXRs, but do not have the opportunity to hear them. The Merlins are about $700 more, which I don't mind paying if they are superior. Both would be paired with a small sub for a music-only second system. Amp is a Bel Canto ref500s. The room (my office) has terrible room treatment (hardwood floors, blank plaster over masonry walls, hard modern furniture, tall ceilings- and I don't want to add much in the way of room treatment for aesthetic reasons). I listen to a very wide variety of music - but mostly indie rock and jazz, at low to moderate levels.

Thoughts? I will be replacing Meadowlark Kestrel Hot Rods.
mateored

Showing 3 responses by dopogue

dopogue
1,773 posts
 
I own a pair of Stradas and their floor mounts (with modded brass spikes from Eden Sound), plus a pair of Gallo TR-3 subs. I have only heard the larger (VSM?) Merlin speakers -- in a wildly different system -- but I'd put the Gallos up against them any time. Granted, it's not a fair comparison. No, the Stradas do not sound bright, at least not i my tubed (Aesthetix Calypso, 845 SET monoblocks) system.
dopogue
1,773 posts
 
The Gallo Strada floor mounts (as opposed to the floor stands that raise the speakers 4' or so) are just fine if you enjoy listening while seated on the floor. Pierre Sprey (Mapleshade) is a strong advocate of this low-listening position. Not me.
dopogue
1,773 posts
 
Marty, you're right. The Stradas absolutely demand a subwoofer. One is okay,
two are much better. The drivers of the TR-3 subs are identical to the woofers
in the Gallo Ref 3.5s, by the way.
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