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Upgrading path from Merlin VSM black magic

Goal:
I have been tinkering with the idea of upgrading and investing in floor standers that are superior in every way compared to Merlins. What are the Merlin users upgrading to? budget is 25k or under (used market value).
My present system:
I am using my Merlins VSM Black magic with dual BAMs with Coincident tech Frankenstein mono block amps (300B SET) and coincident tech line-state and phono preamp. Whole system is wired with Cardas clear cables. Using EMM XDS-1 and VPI classic turntable. System was built around Merlins. I suppose I might have to pick electronics suitable for the replacement speakers and in that case will build the whole system again. Preferably, I would like to keep the front end electronics/amps/pre-amp etc.
My music taste:
I listen mostly Jazz, Classical and vocals. 
My room:
I had Merlins setup in 12x16x8 room which was fully treated. I have since moved to a larger-ish space 15' x 21' x 9'. The room is not treated yet but would be fully treated with absorption panels/diffusors etc in the near future. I setup speakers with ears and with RoomEq software. 
Why not Merlins .. ??
I have thoroughly enjoyed Merlins but sometime feel it can sound a little thin and won't reach the lowest bass. Larger sound stage is desired. Full scale classical music can have better depth, width and weight. I have been using various versions of Merlins since 2009 and have the last version produced (Black magic) with dual BAMs. I have purchased two Funk Audio subwoofers that I have not integrated with the system yet. Merlin is not very subwoofer friendly anyways.
What I am looking for:
Ideal speakers would get from "Merlin" its neutral, resolving, transparent, low distortion, dynamic character. On top would also deliver fuller sound (top to bottom), be a full range down to 20Hz, provide bigger sound stage and has a more organic / relaxing sound (..better emotional connectivity). Speakers should be tube friendly, (preferably SET or OTL).
Brands:
There are simply too many out there. These brands come to mind: dynaudio, magico, sonus-faber, mbl, B&W, wilson audio, rockport, jm-labs, dunlavy, wilson benesch.  I am sure someone who has owned Merlins and made a move can give their input. Even a short list to audition would be helpful. I am based out of Orlando area. Would be great If any local member has a system that they can allow me to audition.
Past experience:
Other notable speakers I have owned in past include original Flocal Utopias (mezzo to grand Utopia), B&W nautilus series, Quad 989 among others. Yesterday's nautilus 800, 802 were power hungry and sounded boxy. This may not be the case with the newer models.  I feel like I am out of touch with what is out there. Have been out of market for long. 
Thanks.



sstalwar
trelja
3,215 posts
 
@signaturesound  Rich makes an excellent point in regard to the JJ E34L.

Although I consider them one of the best sounding current production EL34 variants, they definitely lean to the more forward and engaging side.  Their JJ EL34 come in more balanced, warmer, and even-handed.  If someone wanted to back things off a bit, that's a change that will get them moving in that direction.  The much overlooked Shuguang EL34B are also worth a listen.  For someone with a bit more to spend, Shuguang Black Treasure 6CA7-Z and vintage Mullard EL34 offer even better sound, without harshness.

I've had 2 pairs of Merlins, TSM and VSM.  Incredible speakers, and among the best overall.  Along with the Vandersteen 2, I can't think of another speaker that covers as many bases and listeners.  But no product is without weaknesses or suitable to the tastes and environments of all
audiotroy's avatar
audiotroy
1,621 posts
 
Hey guys, we just took in a pair of VSM with an upgraded BAM with 2 inputs, higher quality outrigger feet by Mapleshade and an additonal zobel network 

in black I have the shipping boxes $2500 for everything.


audiotroy's avatar
audiotroy
1,621 posts
 
Would that be a good price for them?  The customer upgraded to a pair of demo Vivid loudspeakers with a JL sub. 

The Merlins are lovely speakers newer speakers that remind us of them are the Legacy's which have a similar warm tonality and a big soundstage.

Dave and Troy
Audio Doctor NJ
jond's avatar
jond
3,400 posts
 
If you are on the subject of EL34's I can't recommend the Genalex Gold Lion KT-77 highly enough. It's the best EL34 variant I've heard by a large margin and a pretty good value at $45-50 a tube.
Ag insider logo xs@2x
signaturesound
76 posts
 
Sorry for being off topic again, but I want to point something out for Ars Sonum Filarmonia (and Gran Filarmonia) owners that may see this thread. The designer of the amp (Ricardo Hernandez) does not recommend using KT77's in his amp.This is not a reflection on the KT77 (I know the new production Genalex Gold Lion KT77 is a very nice tube), but in the nature of the design of the Ars Sonum amplifiers. So, if you want to roll output tubes in a Ars Sonum amp, stick to EL34 (or E34L) tubes please.

P.S. I have tried the new JJ EL34II in my Filarmonia SK and found it very nice (fuller/sweeter - more tubey if you will than the E34L). I also have a customer who has a set of the (pricey) Sophia Electric EL34's in a Filarmonia and is very pleased with them.

Cheers
Rich
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