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

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

Review by photomensch ( A ) on February 22, 2004 at 07:40:09
IP Address: 209.191.61.222

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Summary
If you don't have a lot of time to read equipment reviews, here's the bottom line: the Merlin VSM-M speaker system is the best I've heard within a price range of from $6,000 to $8,000, and even higher.
Comments
Before making a decision to buy Merlin VSM-M speakers, I listened to comparably and higher priced models from Audio Physic, B&W, Focal.JMLabs, Meadowlark Audio and Revel. I even asked myself, "Could a two-way system be worth over $7000?" And "Could putting an active device in the signal path be wise?" Well, the answer to both questions is "yes" if the speaker designer happens to be Bobby Palkovic at Merlin.
The superior sonic clarity of VSM speakers is unmistakable. It's like comparing the higher resolution of film with the mediocre resolution of video. Gone is the low frequency noise that used to make my forehead resonate. Absent are the high frequency peaks that used to make me cringe. Present is very balanced non-fatiguing sound, with outstanding dynamic range, transient response and detail. These are just some characteristics that distinguish the VSM-M system from other speakers I've heard. Important VSM fringe benefits include outstanding workmanship; a compact footprint that simplifies placement and setup; just 50 watts per channel of tube power drives them nicely; and high wife acceptance factor (WAF). In fact, after having been subjected to B&W 801s a few years ago, my wife actually asked me where the rest of the speakers were when she saw the VSMs for the first time.
The included Bass Augmentation Module (BAM) is an active device that can be powered from its rechargeable battery or a combination of battery and AC. The unit serves to diminish low frequency noise while boosting low frequency musical content. Although I've been listening for just a short time, the BAM seems to be doing its job extremely well with no ill side-effects, especially when operating in the battery-only mode. Other gear included with the VSM system is intended to reduce RFI. However, I've yet to rigorously evaluate their effects. It's important to mention that, while Merlin recommends pricey Cardas Golden Cross speaker cable, I've been getting excellent results with more affordable DH Labs Q-10, used in conjunction with the Merlin-supplied Cardas jumpers. One cautionary note - these speakers will reveal the best and the worst of your favorite recordings.
Conclusion
As an audio fanatic on a budget, I've always tried to make my buying decisions based on maximizing satisfaction and minimizing component turnover. I'm very confident that becoming a Merlin VSM system owner is a decision I'll be delighted with for many years to come. My only regret is that I didn't discover these great sounding speakers sooner.

Product Weakness: Included spikes hard to adjust for a klutz like me. Delivered container weighs almost 200 pounds.
Product Strengths: Balanced non-fatiguing sound, with outstanding dynamic range, transient response and detail.

Associated Equipment for this Review:
Amplifier:	AES Six Paks
Preamplifier (or None if Integrated):	BAT VK-30
Sources (CDP/Turntable):	Sony DVP-S9000ES
Speakers:	Merlin VSM-M
Cables/Interconnects:	DH Labs Q-10/BL-1
Music Used (Genre/Selections):	Classical, Jazz, lots of female vocalists
Room Size (LxWxH):	18 x 12 x 10
Room Comments/Treatments:	Carpeted
Time Period/Length of Audition:	One week
Type of Audition/Review:	Product Owner

Product Weakness:	Included spikes hard to adjust for a klutz like me. Delivered container weighs almost 200 pounds.
Product Strengths:	Balanced non-fatiguing sound, with outstanding dynamic range, transient response and detail.