My Merlins (VSM-SE) seem be more sensitive than most to partnering electronics. The only SS amp I've used with them is a Krell KSA 50s. As Duke notes, this type of amp emphasizes the highly damped nature of the SE's bass (I understand that the MM may be less obvious in this regard). However, the end result was still very, very good.
What's interesting to me was the result with SET amps (Cary). While the trade off in the bass was evident - power & extension (Krell) vs. mid bass warmth (Cary), the change in dynamics were most surprising. The "jump factor" went through the roof with the SET amp. I'm not sure why, but it may have to do with an impedence spike at the x-over frequency which is in the "presence" range. (Just a guess).
In sum, I've found that the VSM SE works very, very well with my SS amp, but becomes really special with SETs.
BTW, the VSM SEs are also HIGHLY sensitive to room placement. As you close in on boundaries the reinforcement changes the bass quite dramatically. Currently, I've backed the speakers up to within 2' of the wall behind them. With a modest P/P triode (Dynaco) the tonal balance and dynamics are both wonderful at the cost of a bit of "imaging" drama.
What's interesting to me was the result with SET amps (Cary). While the trade off in the bass was evident - power & extension (Krell) vs. mid bass warmth (Cary), the change in dynamics were most surprising. The "jump factor" went through the roof with the SET amp. I'm not sure why, but it may have to do with an impedence spike at the x-over frequency which is in the "presence" range. (Just a guess).
In sum, I've found that the VSM SE works very, very well with my SS amp, but becomes really special with SETs.
BTW, the VSM SEs are also HIGHLY sensitive to room placement. As you close in on boundaries the reinforcement changes the bass quite dramatically. Currently, I've backed the speakers up to within 2' of the wall behind them. With a modest P/P triode (Dynaco) the tonal balance and dynamics are both wonderful at the cost of a bit of "imaging" drama.