Speaker Asylum: REVIEW: Merlin Music Inc. VSM-M Speakers by cmathes

Model:	VSM-M
Category:	Speakers
Suggested Retail Price:	$7050
Description:	VSM-Millenniums
Manufacturer URL:	Merlin Music Inc.
Manufacturer URL:	Merlin Music Inc.

Review by cmathes ( A ) on March 25, 2003 at 12:40:33
IP Address: 216.76.172.85

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I know that they've been reviewed before, but MY VSM's have been in my evolving system since late December and I could not be more pleased. I want to let everyone know that they are better than advertised.
As I've fed them better signals by first improving my speaker cables then more revealing amplification, interconnects and finally a high quality digital front end, the VSM's have risen to the occasion. Better put, they have disappeared into recording studios, auditoriums and jazz clubs.
I ordered these speakers without an audition after a lengthy conversation with Bobby Palkovic. The many reviews I read online and in print magazines attracted me to Merlin Music Systems, but Bobby closed the deal. It is a huge advantage to have a manufacturer interested in the success of my system.
If I am not mistaken, VSM stands for very special monitor. I could be wrong about that, but if I am, the description fits. As a two-way monitor, I was concerned that no matter how one tweaks it or what literature and reviews stated, their dynamic range would be limited and more importantly so would my experience. In my room I listen to symphonies and operas with tremendous satisfaction, not just jazz with a double bass. Larger pieces of music actually show off the speaker's detail, imaging and speed instead of pointing out the limitations of a two way box. I have never tested to see how low they go and I probably never will. My wife could not live with a true full range thunderbox as I've heard them called and I'm now convinced that I don't need it.
One question answered, the BAM works. There are technical explanations elsewhere if you are so inclined. The system sounds better with the BAM installed and best in the battery mode instead of even treated a/c.
These speakers have enjoyed several evolutions and I'd say that Bobby's just about got it. Merlin is substance over style. You won't even know that they are there.

Product Weakness: Look to the other pieces of your system for weaknesses
Product Strengths: All of the Cliché and abused adjectives apply: transparent, detailed, layered, fast, massively wide and deep soundstage...

Associated Equipment for this Review:
Amplifier:	Atma-Sphere M60 Mk2
Preamplifier (or None if Integrated):	none
Sources (CDP/Turntable):	Wadia 860
Speakers:	Merlin VSM
Cables/Interconnects:	Nordost Quattro Fil
Music Used (Genre/Selections):	Jazz, classical, country, opera
Room Size (LxWxH):	28 x 14 x 9
Time Period/Length of Audition:	4 months
Other (Power Conditioner etc.):	Richard Gray Power Company 400s
Type of Audition/Review:	Home Audition

Product Weakness:	Look to the other pieces of your system for weaknesses
Product Strengths:	All of the Cliché and abused adjectives apply: transparent, detailed, layered, fast, massively wide and deep soundstage...