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My Dear Friend, Bobby Palkovich (Merlin Music Systems) - Rest In Peace

108.26.50.22
Posted on August 25, 2015 at 09:11:05
Rich Brkich
Dealer

Posts: 832
Location: Near Syracuse, New York
Joined: April 3, 2000



I have just posted this on my (Signature Sound's) Facebook page, and am sharing it here to pass along the news to let those who know Bobby here and the Hi-End Speaker community know of this sad news:

---

I am greatly saddened to report the loss of my long time friend Bobby Palkovich, President of Merlin Music Systems. Apparently more distraught than I had ever thought about business, other personal issues and the toll they must have been taking on his state of mind, it saddens me greatly to report Bobby took his own life last Thursday, August 20th.

I will always remember him as the bright and quick witted and sometimes just plain crabby (generally amusingly so) lovable character that he was. Doing the many trade shows, road trips, and other events we did together over the years were always interesting and fun experiences. They are my fondest memories of him. His memory will live on not only in all those who knew him, but also in the hundreds/thousands of pairs of Merlin speakers in peoples homes that he crafted with a dedication and passion) that was probably unrivaled in the high end audiophile community. No shrinking violet, he would defend his friends and speakers to the hilt if he felt they where unfairly slighted. Making them and seeing or hearing from people how much they enjoyed them was, I'm sure, one of his greatest joys.

Rest in peace my dear friend.

P.S. I'm sure some will have questions about what will happen to Bobby's company, Merlin Music System Inc. I have no news on that front except to say that it will take some time for Bobby's family and business associate(s) to work things out. My own personal feeling is that without Bobby, whose mind, heart and soul were the driving force of the company, Merlin will cease to be in business.

Rich Brkich
Owner, Signature Sound

Happy Listening,
Rich Brkich
Ownwer/Operator Signature Sound

 

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RE: My Dear Friend, Bobby Palkovich (Merlin Music Systems) - Rest In Peace, posted on August 25, 2015 at 09:33:08
Jive Turkey
Audiophile

Posts: 2409
Location: far left, geographically speaking
Joined: May 5, 2010
 So very sad to hear this. I remember Bobby from the Audio Shows I've attended in the past. I enjoyed talking with him a number of times.

See ya. Dave

 

RE: My Dear Friend, Bobby Palkovich (Merlin Music Systems) - Rest In Peace, posted on August 25, 2015 at 10:27:56
mikepittarelli
Audiophile

Posts: 93
Location: NY State
Joined: October 23, 2002
 Sorry to hear that, Rich. About the best sound I've ever heard was at your place coming out of a pair of VSM speakers and KR Audio amplifiers.

 

Shocked and saddened...from a customer and fellow 'upstater"...my condolences to his family//nt, posted on August 25, 2015 at 10:35:02
MaxwellP
Audiophile

Posts: 1623
Location: New York
Joined: September 19, 2007
 nt

 

RE: My Dear Friend, Bobby Palkovich (Merlin Music Systems) - Rest In Peace, posted on August 25, 2015 at 10:36:19
GEO
Audiophile

Posts: 4749
Joined: April 7, 2000
Contributor
  Since: September 9, 2000
 Rich,

That is very very sad news. I am shocked. Without question, Bobby was sincere in what he was doing.

 

RE: My Dear Friend, Bobby Palkovich (Merlin Music Systems) - Rest In Peace, posted on August 25, 2015 at 11:04:56
samac
Audiophile

Posts: 780
Location: midwest
Joined: August 28, 2004
 So very sad to hear of this, Rich. My thoughts and prayers go out to Bobby's family and you, Rich.

Scott

 

RE: My Dear Friend, Bobby Palkovich (Merlin Music Systems) - Rest In Peace, posted on August 25, 2015 at 11:51:24
ahendler
Audiophile

Posts: 5151
Location: San Antonio, Texas
Joined: January 24, 2003
 I only new Mr. Palkovich from the many audio shows I attended. He always had a great sounding system that seemed to be taken for granted by the audio press. I hope that wasn't a contributor to his death but it had to be depressing for him. This is very depressing that such a gifted designer would leave us.
Alan

 

RE: My Dear Friend, Bobby Palkovich (Merlin Music Systems) - Rest In Peace, posted on August 25, 2015 at 12:26:50
joneill
Audiophile

Posts: 149
Joined: August 19, 2001
 So very sad Rich. Condolences to all.

 

RE: My Dear Friend, Bobby Palkovich (Merlin Music Systems) - Rest In Peace, posted on August 25, 2015 at 13:05:43
Pat D
Audiophile

Posts: 12506
Location: Fredericton NB
Joined: June 20, 2000
 I'm very sorry to hear that. I never heard any Merlin speakers, but some good reviewers thought they were very good. I only know him from internet postings and he seemed a very nice, reasonable guy. My condolences for his family and friends.
-----
"A fool and his money are soon parted." --- Thomas Tusser

 

RE: My Dear Friend, Bobby Palkovich (Merlin Music Systems) - Rest In Peace, posted on August 25, 2015 at 13:08:59
6bq5
Audiophile

Posts: 4393
Location: SF Bay
Joined: August 16, 2001
 Rich,
I am sorry to hear of Bobby's passing-
A great loss
Happy Listening

 

What a shock..., posted on August 25, 2015 at 13:20:12
Rod M
Web Geek

Posts: 16246
Location: So. California
Joined: March 1, 1999
Contributor
  Since: March 1, 1999
 Bobby surely was one of the most passionate about his craft in the business.

RIP Bobby.

-Rod

 

Deepest condolences to those he left behind. Surely a huge loss to them, and also to the audio community., posted on August 25, 2015 at 13:31:42
David S.
Audiophile

Posts: 3552
Location: Mountains of WNC
Joined: August 31, 2000
 I've only heard a few Merlin systems. They weren't quite my cuppa, but I had great respect and appreciation to Bobby's commitment to his products and his customers. Very sad to see him go.

 

So sorry to hear that., posted on August 25, 2015 at 13:37:35
Bill Leebens
Manufacturer

Posts: 3578
Location: Longmont, Colorado
Joined: April 4, 2000
 I didn't know him well, but he was always a good guy.

That's a damn shame, and I hate to hear it. Condolences to family and friends.

 

Sad news indeed..., posted on August 25, 2015 at 14:05:29
mingus
Audiophile

Posts: 355
Location: mid-atlantic
Joined: July 19, 2001
 My condolences on yours (Friend), and our (as a group) loss. Met Bobby a few times, upgrading VSM-se's to M, then Mxe... hang out, have lunch with the crew...

I think this will now make you, a de-facto repair specialist on things Merlin, much like things Joule... What torque spec for the screws on the Esotar... small details that do make a difference to the Merlins presentation, and stage... Bamm batterys, accessories (feet, jumpers, set up jig, ect...)



 

RE: My Dear Friend, Bobby Palkovich (Merlin Music Systems) - Rest In Peace, posted on August 25, 2015 at 14:07:45
rebbi
Audiophile

Posts: 288
Location: Austin, TX
Joined: September 4, 2008
 Oh, my God, I'm awfully sorry to hear this! Bobby was a prince of a guy and for the time I owned my TSM's I enjoyed talking to him on the phone and being his customer. That he was so distraught as to end his own life is just heartbreaking. Rest in peace, Bobby.

 

RE: My Dear Friend, Bobby Palkovich (Merlin Music Systems) - Rest In Peace, posted on August 25, 2015 at 14:08:11
Dave Garretson
Audiophile

Posts: 2448
Joined: June 14, 2005
 Sad to hear of this, the more so while listening to my endlessly modified Merlin VSMs. They have been the sole keepers through winds of change. I knew Bobby a bit for several years, and was invariably impressed by the contradictions of his irascible yet generous nature and invariably keen instincts about audio. RIP Bobby.

 

RE: My Dear Friend, Bobby Palkovich (Merlin Music Systems) - Rest In Peace, posted on August 25, 2015 at 14:11:36
kkak66
Audiophile

Posts: 641
Location: Florida
Joined: April 25, 2000
 This is blowing my mind. I just had my TSMXE upgraded to magic mod. Talked to him just a few months ago. Man what a drag. Have had Merlins for over 15 years. Glad I had a chance to talk to him, and get his very fine speakers upgraded. RIP

 

Jeez, I'm sorry to hear it, posted on August 25, 2015 at 15:03:52
Jay Buridan
Audiophile

Posts: 10284
Location: Michigan
Joined: January 21, 2004
 Condolences to you and his other loved ones. I'm gonna' go listen to my Merlins now...

"Horse sense is the thing a horse has which keeps it from betting on people. "
― W.C. Fields

 

RE: My Dear Friend, Bobby Palkovich (Merlin Music Systems) - Rest In Peace, posted on August 25, 2015 at 16:41:18
hahax@verizon.net
Audiophile

Posts: 4310
Location: New Jersey
Joined: March 22, 2006
 I kew him slightly but I recall he was easy to be with. I recall a mid 80s CES show where he was across the hall from me. We spent the last night together getting more and more tired and silly waiting for boxes to be returned to pack our gear. They didn't come until about 3 AM. And we, Bobby and I and my friends spent our time 'designing' a sub-tweeter to exhibit at the next CES with a warning sign on the speaker to stand a couple of feet back to avoid being hit by the 2 foot throw needed to get bass from a 1 inch dome driver.

 

RE: My Dear Friend, Bobby Palkovich (Merlin Music Systems) - Rest In Peace, posted on August 25, 2015 at 17:25:43
X1992
Audiophile

Posts: 54
Joined: May 3, 2015
 I met him only once at a show, but it was great to listen to him opine about audio and take pride in his intriguing speakers. He was considering doing a subwoofer but exclaimed his VSMs didn't need one. Even though I only met him once, I am a fan and feel really bad about his passing and his suffering.

 

RE: My Dear Friend, Bobby Palkovich (Merlin Music Systems) - Rest In Peace, posted on August 25, 2015 at 18:54:53
fantja
Audiophile

Posts: 15524
Location: Alabama
Joined: September 11, 2010
 R.I.P.

 

Personal loss, posted on August 25, 2015 at 19:21:21
DKL
Audiophile

Posts: 1046
Location: Deland, FL
Joined: November 20, 2001
 I've known Bobby since 2001, and have spoken with him at length many times on the phone, but sadly never met him in person. A personal anecdote that gives some insight into this man: Back in 2001, my first set of Merlins were a pair of used TSM-SEs in ice blue finish...beautiful speakers. They sat atop Osiris stands. My autistic daughter, who is now 17 and a fabulous artist, accidentally knocked one of the speakers off its stand onto our tile floor, crushing one corner of the speaker. I'd never talked with Bobby before...but I called him up and he asked me to send in this used speaker and he would fix it. A few weeks went past, and I became impatient. I called a few times, and I could tell Bobby was slammed with other business, but was wondering when he would fix the speaker. Soon after, a box arrived at our house from Merlin. When I opened it, I immediately could tell it was not the same "used" speaker I sent for Bobby to repair. Instead, Bobby had sent me a completely NEW speaker. Years have gone by...I've owned several other Merlin speakers... but got off the merry-go-round in 2007 when Bobby offered me a great deal on a brand new pair of VSM-MXe speakers - the first "unleaded" versions. They sounded fantastic - more relaxed and open than before. Since then, I've upgraded the BAM to the "Master" version - providing even more stunning realism and deeper bass. I honestly have had no desire to upgrade since, and with Bobby's passing, I'll keep them, listen to them, and cherish them as long as I can - and plan on keeping them in the family. Bobby described them as "heirloom quality" (they are signed on the bottom) and he is right. I will treasure them almost as much as I treasured Bobby's friendship.

Hour-long conversations were not uncommon - and I will miss his wit and insanely funny banter. How "the Berning would crap all over that other amp." Or, how the "Ars Sonum was stupid good." This comes as a great shock to me, since I had just communicated with him last month on Facebook. Below is the pic I posted on his company's page, along with his comment to me, from July 10th, showing that to the end, Bobby was consumed with always improving his work, and sharing it with the world, including those who cared even more about his friendship and well-being than his world-class speakers and upgrades. Rest in peace, Bobby. Rest in peace my friend.






 

RE: My Dear Friend, Bobby Palkovich (Merlin Music Systems) - Rest In Peace, posted on August 25, 2015 at 20:25:53
c1ferrari
Audiophile

Posts: 640
Location: Southern California
Joined: March 16, 2001
 R.I.P. Dear Mr. Palkovich,

Thank you for all of your contributions. Condolences to the Palkovich family and friends.

Vbr,
Sam

 

Condolences..., posted on August 25, 2015 at 21:01:28
musetap
Audiophile

Posts: 31879
Location: San Francisco
Joined: July 8, 2003
Contributor
  Since: January 28, 2004
 to you, his other friends and family.

Sad news - always appreciated his posts/energy around here
and the focus and dedication he had towards his well respected
speakers.

RIP.

"Once this was all Black Plasma and Imagination"-Michael McClure



 

RE: My Dear Friend, Bobby Palkovich (Merlin Music Systems) - Rest In Peace, posted on August 26, 2015 at 04:18:46
Tubegroover
Audiophile

Posts: 246
Joined: May 18, 2000
 This is so shocking and sad, my deepest condolences to the Palkovic circle of family and friends.

You will always be remembered by me early on for the generous amount of time and effort you spent with me after I purchased a pair of VSMs in 2000. The many phone conversations following that and your recommendations all of which turned out sound and true. You made me feel more as a friend as much as a customer. Your passion and irrasible, indominable spirit, unrivaled in my experience but surely surpassed by your personal generosity, you are/were a special and unique individual Bobby. I could feel your pain and frustration at times, being in a highly competetive business but you always kept your products relevant and in the conversation. The show in NYC Hilton 2002 when I finally met you in person. You sure didn't know who I was when I played a goof on you, "Where's the bass?" were the first words out of my mouth. You looked at me dumbfounded when I introduced myself with a smile and a warm handshake. You left behind more than you might imagine Bobby, a deep impression of a complex but very decent person, Rest in peace my friend.

Will

 

That's a real shame, posted on August 26, 2015 at 05:01:48
Atwood
Audiophile

Posts: 527
Joined: October 10, 2001
 It's hard on everyone when someone makes that decision. I hope he can find some rest.

 

RE: My Dear Friend, Bobby Palkovich (Merlin Music Systems) - Rest In Peace, posted on August 26, 2015 at 06:28:36
Douger
Audiophile

Posts: 745
Location: Nebraska
Joined: January 2, 2001
 Sincere condolences to his family and friends!

 

RE: My Dear Friend, Bobby Palkovich (Merlin Music Systems) - Rest In Peace, posted on August 26, 2015 at 06:34:59
jimmycj
Audiophile

Posts: 1507
Joined: December 6, 2004
 Some of my first high end speakers i heard were Merlins.

 

RE: My Dear Friend, Bobby Palkovich (Merlin Music Systems) - Rest In Peace, posted on August 26, 2015 at 08:02:22
BadgerDMS
Audiophile

Posts: 768
Location: WDC
Joined: November 27, 2002
 That's very sad to hear. I spent several hours on the phone with Bobby over the years, before and after I owned a pair of his VSM-MX speakers, which I don't have to tell people on this forum, were just excellent. Always a gentleman, albeit sometimes a crusty one, I always assumed our paths would cross again. I'm very bummed to hear that they won't. I've scaled back quite a bit on my audio purchases but there was always a little inkling in the back of my mind that I would go grab a pair of TSMs someday to get back to the Merlin cult (I mean that in all the good ways).

About 11 years ago, I got a phone call from my wife--practically hyperventilating while explaining how she knocked one of my Merlin Speakers over onto one of my Joule Electra Tube amps. After cringing as she told me, I told her not to worry, I'd check things out when I got home and then call Bobby if we needed to have anything fixed. After replacing the broken tubes and vacuuming the broken glass out of the amps, I determined they were no worse for the wear. My beautiful Clear Coat Ruby Heart Red Merlin was seriously gouged however--still sounded great, but looked terrible.

I spoke to Bobby, told him what had happened and he told me not to worry--he could make them good as new. And he did. Not being brave enough to try and repackage the speakers the way Bobby meticulously did, we loaded them up in the car one early April day and made a snow filled drive from the DC area up to Hemlock New York. I decided to use the repair as an excuse to have Bobby upgrade to the latest version at the same time. My wife was about 7 months pregnant with our first child so I figured the timing was good to take them out of commission for a bit--my free time was about to be limited anyway. When Bobby met my wife, he put his arm around her and told her not to worry that I wouldn't be able to tell the difference when he and his guys were done. Of course, he was a man of his word but just a quick anecdote to tell you what kind, generous and thoughtful person he was. My wife always jokes about the time we went to "Speaker World" but confesses that she was amazed at the artisan quality of what he was doing up there and what a nice person Bobby was. Glad we got to spend a little time with him "in his element".

You will be missed my friend.

 

Really sorry to hear this! RIP Bobby... nt, posted on August 26, 2015 at 08:41:08
Ralph
Manufacturer

Posts: 4778
Location: Minnesota
Joined: April 24, 2002
 -

 

It's sad to hear this ..., posted on August 26, 2015 at 10:25:59
-æ-
Bored Member

Posts: 788
Joined: May 9, 2013
Contributor
  Since: March 1, 1999
 ... sorry for his pain; condolences to family and friends.

If you aren't quite noticing or accepting what is really going on in the present,
but are responding based on your thoughts or feelings about what ought to be,
then you are apt to collide with what is really going on.

 

RE: My Dear Friend, Bobby Palkovich (Merlin Music Systems) - Rest In Peace, posted on August 26, 2015 at 10:33:20
onemug
Audiophile

Posts: 1276
Location: So. California
Joined: April 19, 2003
 My condolences to his family and friends.

I bought a pair of VSMs from him in the 90's. They had "just" been made. When I asked him when they would ship, he said he'd like to do it on a Monday so I would get them before the weekend. He didn't like them sitting in a hot UPS warehouse over the weekend while the glue and paint were still drying/curing.

Attention to detail is a mark of a good man. RIP Bobby.

 

A shame, posted on August 26, 2015 at 10:38:06
Brian Walsh
Distributor or Rep

Posts: 10768
Location: IL
Joined: December 6, 1999
 Bobby was one of the most engaging, passionate people in audio I've met. I suppose the fact he hadn't done any shows over the past couple of years, attributed to his health, affected his business.

Bobby was Merlin.
Brian Walsh

 

Thank you . . ., posted on August 26, 2015 at 13:05:42
Rich Brkich
Dealer

Posts: 832
Location: Near Syracuse, New York
Joined: April 3, 2000
 Thanks everyone for all the kind words and reminiscences about Bobby. It is very much appreciated by myself and those non-audiophile friends/family of Bobby who have seen it.
Happy Listening,
Rich Brkich
Ownwer/Operator Signature Sound

 

RE: My Dear Friend, Bobby Palkovich (Merlin Music Systems) - Rest In Peace, posted on August 26, 2015 at 13:36:28
JamesV
Audiophile

Posts: 195
Location: So. California
Joined: August 28, 2004
 Such sad news. Bobby was such a great guy. We spoke many times about many subjects. Not just speakers. I owned TSM's and VSM's...all the mod's. Oh the mod's....
Also owned his amp. What a passionate person who actually cared. He will be missed. RIP Bobby

 

RE: My Dear Friend, Bobby Palkovich (Merlin Music Systems) - Rest In Peace, posted on August 26, 2015 at 15:49:35
Duke
Dealer

Posts: 4429
Location: Princeton, Texas
Joined: March 31, 2000
 Rest in peace Bobby. You brightened many lives and helped bring beautiful music into many homes where it could work its magic to full effect.

Me being a dealer makes you leery?? It gets worse... I'm a manufacturer too.

 

RE: My Dear Friend, Bobby Palkovich (Merlin Music Systems) - Rest In Peace, posted on August 26, 2015 at 15:55:57
ron w2
 So sad. Does this mean that there won't be any more Merlin upgrades?

 

RE: My Dear Friend, Bobby Palkovich (Merlin Music Systems) - Rest In Peace, posted on August 26, 2015 at 16:24:51
Devils Advocate
 I am numb from shock, I spoke with him just a couple of weeks ago, although I had a vague feeling that something was wrong I had no idea things were that bad. I feel like I lost a friend. I hope his wife Karen is doing ok in spite of what has happened, please keep them both in your prayers. God bless you Bobby, you made some 'stupid good' speakers (one of his favorite euphemisms). You will be missed but you will never be forgotten.

 

RE: My Dear Friend, Bobby Palkovich (Merlin Music Systems) - Rest In Peace, posted on August 26, 2015 at 20:43:04
redsfan2144@aol.com
Audiophile

Posts: 1
Location: Indiana
Joined: August 26, 2015
 Bobby was such an amazing guy when he was feeling well. He has been a huge help in getting to where I want in my audio system throughout the last few years. Very, very helpful suggestions. It's such a shame his health had to effect his business and his state of mind the way it did. He will be missed by his Merlin family. Unfortunately, I am currently stuck for that me and Bobby worked out ordering Cardas cables to completely my system. I paid him close to $6K from Feb to May this year, and I have absolutely nothing to show for it. I know he meant well, but his health got in the way of fulfilling his responsibility to follow through on these orders. If anyone can be of help for me to contact Bill Hooper of Merlin Music or anyone else I can get in touch with, please contact me @ Redsfan2144@aol.com. I have been very upset with this whole situation for the last 3 months, and I don't know what to do. Not trying to be insensitive to the situation. I was indeed heartbroken when I heard the news; I just want to be taken care of as Bobby promised as of last week. RIP Bobby.
Desmond

 

RE: My Dear Friend, Bobby Palkovich (Merlin Music Systems) - Rest In Peace, posted on August 26, 2015 at 23:18:31
Inmate51
 I have no idea who Bobby was - never met nor talked with the man. Although, I have seen advertisements here on AA for his Merlin products. Still, I feel sad about him taking his life. He obviously had run out of reasons to live, which is so sad. A couple of people have mentioned his health. What was the problem?

It's often difficult to know where a person is psychologically - we're very good at covering up our problems and demons and putting on a happy face. It's too bad that no one was close enough to him to know the extent of his despair.

RIP

 

RE: My Dear Friend, Bobby Palkovich (Merlin Music Systems) - Rest In Peace, posted on August 27, 2015 at 01:38:14
albatross
Audiophile

Posts: 1
Joined: August 27, 2015
 Hi,

I am from Mumbai, India.

I felt terrible when i saw the news on my cell phone sent by another Merliner here.

I sent Bobby an email with a pic of my system and a recently added DiY subwoofer about couple of weeks ago but i got no reply. This was strange as i have always had very quick replies from Bobby. But i thought he would be busy with new customers so i left it at that.

I have interacted with B over email for about ( or more ) 2 years now and it was always a memorable one.

I just want to tell his family that his passing is felt in a far away land and that speaks volumes of what the few owners of Merlin TSM here in India think of the product and the person.

I will treasure the Merlin TSM MMM BME . The wonderful music coming out of it will be in a way a tribute to Bobby's craftsmanship, his passion and also to his co-workers at Merlin.

I am not a regular member here but i created this profile so i could pay my tribute to Bobby here.

I know his wife was not well - he had mentioned that once to me and i hope she is OK. I wish you strength to pull through this phase.

RIP Bobby !

Best regards
albatross

 

RE: My Dear Friend, Bobby Palkovich (Merlin Music Systems) - Rest In Peace, posted on August 27, 2015 at 04:42:29
RGA
Reviewer

Posts: 15177
Location: Hong Kong
Joined: August 8, 2001
 This is sad to hear and worse when it's suicide because those closest to the man will always feel like there was something they could do even though that's often not the case. He seemed like a nice guy from what I read on these forums and he had a very passionate and vocal fan base for his products - my kind of people - and generally when there is a vocal fan base there is good reason for it. He will be missed.

 

Reminiscence: one reason people loved Bobby, posted on August 27, 2015 at 05:54:52
rebbi
Audiophile

Posts: 288
Location: Austin, TX
Joined: September 4, 2008
 One reason people loved Bobby P. had to do with the way he treated customers.

Shortly after taking delivery of my TSM-mmi's, I'd written to Bobby asking him about break-in procedure. This is what he wrote back (I still have all of our emails because I'm bad about cleaning out my inbox):

"steve, play them with your best sounding music and at normal listening levels.
and you are in my family now, i will take care of you with pleasure, indefinitely.
ok?
b"

I'll also say that even though I eventually moved on from the TSM's, they were as lovingly made (and packed!) as any product I've ever purchased. Bobby listened to and signed off on every pair that left the factory - they were "his babies." And for a completely handmade product, they were absolutely flawless.

 

RE: My Dear Friend, Bobby Palkovich (Merlin Music Systems) - Rest In Peace, posted on August 27, 2015 at 12:23:01
farmdoc
Audiophile

Posts: 190
Location: No. California
Joined: December 8, 2002
 I feel, like all those who posted about Bobby, that it helps with grieving to write your thoughts.

I walked into RMAF in 2009 for the whole 3 day show, just to look and listen. My wife was with me, guarding the checkbook, with no intentions buying anything.
I walked out on Sunday with a new pair of VSM-MXE's, a Philharmonia integrated on order, and a new friend, Bobby.
We have corresponded since, talked music, did some upgrades, and never was I disappointed or regretful of the outcome. He educated me in his forceful, exuberant manner, and while I didn't buy everything he told me, I was most in awe of his passion for his craft.
He has missed the last several shows in Denver; but when I spoke with him last spring, he said he was probably coming in Oct.

This world, and our hobby, needs people like Bobby. I have seldom met a person who seemed more alive and energized, especially when discussing his craft and product. And he truly believed.

I'll miss you, Bobby, and countless other souls you touched and enriched with your interaction and craft will also.

 

RE: My Dear Friend, Bobby Palkovich (Merlin Music Systems) - Rest In Peace, posted on August 27, 2015 at 18:44:27
Dvd-man1
Audiophile

Posts: 1
Joined: August 27, 2015
 Rich, your thoughts are appreciated and observations accurate but I have to echo others feelings on sharing the intimate and private details that are not appropriate for mass consumption. Let us not judge nor imply anything we cannot possibly understand.

For the rest - I have had the pleasure of knowing Bob for nearly 30 years. I am not going to get emotional in this venue but will share my response to my wife's question to whether Bobby had children. I responded that his children are in our living room - I will take good care of them and remember his relentless passion and all he taught me every time I listen. I hope you too, that are so fortunate may do the same,

You will be missed, my friend.

 

RE: My Dear Friend, Bobby Palkovich (Merlin Music Systems) - Rest In Peace, posted on August 27, 2015 at 18:51:19
fantja
Audiophile

Posts: 15524
Location: Alabama
Joined: September 11, 2010
 Peace to his family only. We must never celebrate someone whom chooses to take his own life???

 

RE: My Dear Friend, Bobby Palkovich (Merlin Music Systems) - Rest In Peace, posted on August 27, 2015 at 20:22:37
farmdoc
Audiophile

Posts: 190
Location: No. California
Joined: December 8, 2002
 Sir, it is not your place or privilege to tell those who knew, respected, and liked Bobby what or when to 'celebrate'. Your own personal beliefs have no place here; we are acknowledging Bobby's contribution to our community, and how or why he died is not the focus. I do not know the inner torment that led him to this end, and I realize that suicide is considered by some practitioners to be a selfish act, but that is not the point.
He was a good man, and giving in ways that many in this business shun. I grieve for his family, and I stand with others who posted here to celebrate his life.
Enough said.

'Never judge another man until you've walked a mile in his shoes'. (paraphrased from an old Indian legend)

 

Couldn't have said it better Farmdoc...., posted on August 27, 2015 at 21:18:06
Mike in NJ
Audiophile

Posts: 596
Location: Paramus, NJ
Joined: September 5, 2002
 We should celebrate the man and pray for his family as we personally feel fit - there is no need for anyone to critique what, who and how we should celebrate "anyone"...
Thank you for saying what you did...
Mike

 

Very sad news, posted on August 28, 2015 at 23:28:53
jbcortes
Audiophile

Posts: 1399
Joined: July 6, 2000
 I was shocked when I read this. RIP Bobby.
One of the best, most passionate and helpful guys I met in the audio industry.
Thanks Rich for letting us know.

 

RE: My Dear Friend, Bobby Palkovich (Merlin Music Systems) - Rest In Peace, posted on September 1, 2015 at 12:21:01
Valvulator
Audiophile

Posts: 82
Location: Madrid
Joined: June 16, 2006
 I'm so sorry, rest in peace my friend. Salutations from Spain where you have many other people regreting you loss.

Alvaro.

 

RE: My Dear Friend, Bobby Palkovich (Merlin Music Systems) - Rest In Peace, posted on September 4, 2015 at 08:50:27
etmerritt33@hotmail.com
Audiophile

Posts: 2
Location: VA
Joined: May 28, 2012
 I've been struggling to find words to express my sorrow after hearing of Bobby's death. Despite the fact that I never met Bobby in the flesh I felt like I knew him.

This guy really was a genius to my way of thinking. The analogy I like best is the evolution of the Porsche 911. The Porsche engineers took a rear engine design that should not have worked well and perfected it over the years with iterative improvements. Bobby's two way Merlin history is very similar. He enhanced the design of a two way speaker to a point where the sonics were beyond belief.

I've been a Magnepan junkie since 1974. I'll never be able to get Magnepan out of my blood. I've had Sound Labs, Martin Logan, and various Magnepan speakers for significant periods of time. I currently have Bobby's latest VSM without the Black Magic upgrade. I can very honestly say that these Merlins sound better than all the planars and electrostatics I've ever had. Many words have been used to describe the sound but to me the overall quality of the sound was more lifelike and more satisfying to listen to than all the others. My only issue was trying to convert my mind to believe that a two way speaker could make sound like this. I had a strongly held belief for decades that it was impossible and it took several years for me to accept that Bobby had achieved the impossible.

Bobby was very opinionated and always willing to argue his points. But, he was also a very kind and compassionate person. I was laid off in 2006 after 33 years at a company. I had a pair of studio VSM-SE's and wanted to upgrade to the current VSM-MXe's in piano black but just did not have the funds to make the change. Bobby told me "I know you have lost your job but I can still help you!". He made me a great deal on a pair of piano black VSM-Mxe's that he had just used at CES. I sold my VSM-SE's to my next door neighbor and scrapped up the balance to get the speakers from Bobby. I will never forget that kindness from Bobby as I would not have these speakers without it.

Several years later, one of our cats ran into one of the speakers and knocked it over and onto our equipment stand which has heavy steel rods on four corners which are threaded. The thread of one corner was where the speaker fell and it damaged the top edge and looked terrible. I contacted Bobby and he put me at ease and said don't worry Bill and I will repair the speaker and it will look new again. I shipped both off to Bobby and got an upgrade in the process. The cabinet was repaired and the modification installed. When we got them back they sounded and looked fantastic. As others have said, once you joined the Merlin family Bobby would provide the best support in the industry no matter what.

I've never been in the high end business but it appears to be very tough especially right now with so many young people being enamored with the latest portable devices and not being interested in the high end sound we have all enjoyed for decades. It must have been tough for Bobby to try to fight through that with his evolving speaker line that cosmetically looked basically the same. I think that visual just made it harder despite his brilliance in iterative improvement.

I would urge all that knew Bobby whether closely or from a distance like me to try to give everyone space to express their grief over what has occurred and the manner in which it occurred. We all have our own personal and individual ways of dealing with loss and grief. We need to give each other space to express that on a forum like this one if we feel the desire to do it. Everyone has been respectful and many have shared personal experiences with Bobby that I believe would make Bobby proud.

As I said in the beginning I don't think I will ever get over my sorrow over Bobby. He was a tremendously talented, kind, and dedicated human being and it makes me sorrowful to think of what a dark place he felt he was in that he was out of options such that his life ended in such a sad manner. I would never judge Bobby for that as none of us can really understand what he was going through.

I share everyone's sorrow around the entire globe over Bobby's loss. Rest in peace, Bobby!!! You will be greatly missed for a very long time!!

Tom Merritt
Richmond, Virginia

 

RE: My Dear Friend, Bobby Palkovich (Merlin Music Systems) - Rest In Peace, posted on September 4, 2015 at 10:15:56
farmdoc
Audiophile

Posts: 190
Location: No. California
Joined: December 8, 2002
 +1 NT

 

Wonderfully said Tom, posted on September 4, 2015 at 21:57:39
Mike in NJ
Audiophile

Posts: 596
Location: Paramus, NJ
Joined: September 5, 2002
 I have only had well dealings with Bobby over the years.
Met a him few times at audio shows and spoke many times on the phone.
Bought TSM's and VSM's from him - both received in a timely fashion.
I had an issue with a pushed in woofer cap from my 2 year old sons finger one time.
He assured me it wouldn't effect the sound, but I wanted it fixed anyway.
I sent them in, he matched the woffers and sent them back.
He was very passionate and would love to talk about audio.
I will miss him - I'm not sure what kind of problems he might have been facing recently, but death is perminant- I suppose he couldn't face the fact that his "baby" (Merlin) may have been going bankrupt and couldn't bare not doing what he loved anymore and letting everyone down....

 

RE: My Dear Friend, Bobby Palkovich (Merlin Music Systems) - Rest In Peace, posted on September 7, 2015 at 09:33:06
Trelja
Audiophile

Posts: 153
Location: Philadelphia, PA suburbs
Joined: August 3, 2001
 Sorry I'm late to this thread as I've been out of the country for a few weeks...

IMPOSSIBLY sad news. Our thoughts and prayers to Bobby and those around him. If there's anything we could offer in terms of assistance or that the family needs in this time, I hope you let us know, Rick.

I've owned both the Merlin TSM and VSM, and consider the VSM the definitive loudspeaker of the current (1995 - present) generation of high-end audio.

 

Just saw this..... can't believe it..... so sad -t, posted on September 14, 2015 at 14:41:01
Sordidman
Audiophile

Posts: 13665
Location: San Francisco
Joined: May 14, 2001
 .

"Asylums with doors open wide,
Where people had paid to see inside,
For entertainment they watch his body twist
Behind his eyes he says, 'I still exist.'"

 

RE: My Dear Friend, Bobby Palkovich (Merlin Music Systems) - Rest In Peace, posted on September 20, 2015 at 19:16:48
coffeequeen
Audiophile

Posts: 15
Location: upstate NY
Joined: September 20, 2004
 I am devastated to hear this terribly sad news. I met him at his Hemlock shop in 2003, when I bought a pair of his TSM speakers. Saw him again two years later for an upgrade. He was one in a million, a gracious and well-spoken gentleman who obviously loved what he did for a living. I still have those TSM and enjoy them immensely. My condolences to his family and associates. And Bobby, wherever you are, I hope you are in peace. I miss you.

 

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