Harbeth Compact 7 or Merlin TSM

I agree with Palkovic. I owned an earlier version of TSM than the "mme" and it was clinical, analytical and "hifi"...all things I hate in a loudspeaker. Get the Harbeth...no contest. You'll never look back.

Bobby-

I owned the VSM-M with a Super BBam so it was an older model...I am sure the newer versions are in a different league. Because of this I should have mentioned the model of VSM I owned.

I think i would lean toward merlin with tube amps for more synergy. I would fear too much midrange warmth with tube amp plus harbeth for my personal taste.

Reminds me of a "Thiel or Vandersteen" thread.

I agree 98.2% with Mapman.

it should be obvious that there is no way to make everyone happy.:-) too many different tastes involved in this.
tuck, the master tsm uses a new cabinet material and construction, is wired with cardas clear geometry wire and uses duelund copper foil caps in critical locations. the mx-r is the same speaker wired with cardas 15 gauge and standard rc's unless you pay the extra sum for the master rc's.
why not e-mail or call me at the factory for a more complete explanation. contact info is on the merlin web site. i would also like to explain the differences between the vsm and tsm which would be very interesting.
thank you.
bobby