|
Audio Asylum Thread Printer Get a view of an entire thread on one page |
For Sale Ads |
76.89.178.62
In Reply to: RE: REVIEW: Merlin Music Inc. VSM-Master Speakers posted by mt10425 on June 17, 2012 at 12:12:54
I found your commentary on the Merlin VSM-Master speakers both interesting and a bit puzzling.
First of all, I want to say up front that I am an extremely pleased owner of the Merlin Master TSMs which I have had for about a month. Review to follow. Previously I owned a Merlin VSM-MX which I had in a dedicated listening room until we downsized to a smaller home. I guess you could call me a Merlin fanboy but a title acquired through much experience listening and owning a wide range of equipment in different settings.I have also rhetorically wondered what will Merlin offer in the next TSM generation? How can they improve on a speaker system that already does nearly everything so right. I guess only time will tell. However, what I found most puzzling to this critique is the fact that nearly all great audio product evolve over time and not just for marketing purposes. That is simply the nature of this industry as well as others such as the computer and automobiles.
The whole art/science of this industry can be best characterized as a never ending state of evolution. The "absolute sound" will always be our primary goal but will remain just out of reach. It is designers like Bobby P. who have made this quest their life's work that allow us to keep inching closer.In a highly technological arena such as high-end audio, there is no such thing as getting it right the first time.
Follow Ups:
I think this "getting closer to an absolute sound" thing we're sold is bunk. I think we're at a stage where people can push the latest iteration of what is 'subjectively very good but different' sound and offer it as an incremental step towards sonic bliss.
No comment on the speakers in question, just a general statement about the state of the audiophile nation.
Cheers,
Presto
Jay, it's the intervals of improvement which come into question, not natural evolvement. Merlin isn't the only one, just given yet another gushing "I can't believe they've improved on perfection" review, it became an obvious one.
I won't buy a product based on its upgrade path. That's not to say that I won't buy a product with an upgrade path, or that I won't avail myself of an upgrade if it comes along and makes sense.
For example, I bought the basic VPI Scout because I loved the sound. Four years later I'm still thrilled with it and not the least bit tempted to go down the apparent upgrade rabbit hole. I will upgrade the cartridge at some point, naturally, but not the motor, belt, feet, platter, clamp, arm, anti-skate, etc., etc., etc. The fact that that path was open did not and does not make me enjoy the basic version any less, but I'm not interested.
But that's just me. If people believe that such a path is not a rabbit's hole, but instead an enjoyable path to perfection, then that's great.
___
"If you are the owner of a new stereophonic system, this record will play with even more brilliant true-to-life fidelity. In short, you can purchase this record with no fear of its becoming obsolete in the future."
Well you should upgrade the Scout motor from the 600 RPM if that is what you have. The 300 RPM motor has way less vibration and that "upgrade" only consists of a kit, capacitor and different wheel. Cost I believe is like $150 which is pretty inexpensive.
I listened to the plinth with the 600 RPM motor with a stethoscope. It is literally humming - 300 RPM is very quiet - results in much less smear. Some upgrades are well worth the cost, but then I'm an upgraded Merlin owner.
Hi mt,
I see your point. I try not to gush too much or ascribe "perfection" to most anything as that kind of description leaves little room for improvement.
I know that I for one can get very enthusiastic about things such as a fine cigar or great steak dinner but I try not to over do it for fear of losing my credibility.
a great steak dinner if I prepared it. ;)
Post a Followup:
FAQ |
Post a Message! |
Forgot Password? |
|
||||||||||||||
|
This post is made possible by the generous support of people like you and our sponsors: