I'm in agreement with most of what the others have stated; the one area I'll disagree on is the amp choice. I owned a Pathos Twin Towers for abt a yr, and loved it. However, it doesn't get the most bass from the Merlins. It's true that you can get by with low power, but you won't get the bass. I now have a Sierra Whitney and I hear bass from the VSM's like I've never heard before. I also sometimes play them very loud, into the 100db spls, and have never had a problem. I also use the bam. Also, you don't necessarily need the latest version; I've heard both and think his version with the edison price posts sounds best. The Cardas posts can also be a real pain. I've spoken with Bob Palkovich (mr. merlin) and he hopes to have the subs out before year end.
Merlin VSM SE Speakers - Opinions
I am looking at the possibility of upgrading my Speakers. The Merlins keep on catching my eye but not my ears; there is no local dealer. Reviews are great and they seem to possess all that one can ask for in a 2-way. I have reservations in the fact that there are so many of them for sale in Audiogon - WHY? If anyone out there can tell me more about these speakers and other matching components other than the Joule Electronics they seem to have a synergistic match with, I would be greatful. These speakers almost sound too good to be true, what's the scoop?