Dynaudio 1.3SE question

I'm looking for a pair of speakers, and was considering the Dynaudio 1.8Mk2 (great speaker), but have heard that the 1.3SE is much better (despite being a monitor). If I go with the 1.3SE, I will go used, so I don't want to bother my local dealer to listen to them. So, I have two questions:

1. Is the 1.3SE really that much better than the 1.8Mk2?

2. How does the 1.3SE compare with the Merlin TSM-M? I've never heard a Merlin, but have heard many good things, and am curious.

My music preferences include jazz, folk, rock, heavy metal, electronic... you name it. I actually live in an apartment, so the speakers have to fit into my living room. I'd eventually like to add a sub to the system, for the extra low end. I don't have electronics yet, because I'm waiting to decide on a pair of speakers. When I decide, I will try to build around the speakers. By the way, I also like "fast" speakers (at least I think that's the term)... in other words, I like a speaker that can articulate fast transients in the music, particularly quick percussion beats. I also like nice separation and "air" (it is difficult to describe sounds, isn't it?) and detail. I'd appreciate any input... by the way, this is a great resource for audio enthusiasts!

Dennis