Monoblocks to consider?

I'll bet for $5k (or less) invested in a couple of subs, you'll get all the slam you desire, and you'll save some money in the process.

Why not call or email Bobby P. for some subwoofer suggestions (or search the Member's Systems to see what other Merlin owners are using)?

Got me to thinking.You have 95% of what you can get with what you got.You know your trying for the last 5%.Going to need 50K or so for that.Or take the easy way out and get the sub.You don't say much about the room,whats that like?

It could very well be your room and speaker placement thats sucking the dynamic life out of your Merlins.Its not the Berning amp.
Before you start selling and spending, start with differant speaker placement.

Sometimes patience and alittle work pays off large.

If that does not do it for you.

Tvads suggestion is agood one.

The subs today have come along, long way. Borrow one or two and see for your yourself.

Or take Rushtons advice regarding the Atma-Sphere monos.
They are everything he says they are.

The Atma-Spheres could very well be a better match for your Merlins. Try them out and see.

Good luck and good listening.

Hi Monty: My system is similar to yours. Joule LAP 150 MkII, AA Prima CDP, and Merlin VSM-MXe but I use a very old Muse subwoofer with it. My amps are Joule VZN-160 and I have been very happy with them for the last 8 years. They are probably the last item in my system I would switch out. Bobby himself uses the VZN-100 at the CES and has done so for a few years.

If you want a fantastic bottom end slam consider the Innersound mono amps,excellent amps with unlimited power.