Speaker Asylum: REVIEW: Merlin Music Inc. TSM-M Speakers by lutesk

Model:	TSM-M
Category:	Speakers
Suggested Retail Price:	$3200
Description:	Merlin Music TSM-M
Manufacturer URL:	Merlin Music Inc.
Model Picture:	View

Review by lutesk ( A ) on October 23, 2003 at 13:28:57
IP Address: 208.239.120.53

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I have had these for about 7 months now, so it's time for me to post my first review. I've recently, ( the past few years ) have gotten back into audio, and I don't profess to being a pro, or and audiophile. This is my first review here.
After reading about the TSM's here and at Audioreview, I gave Bobby a call one evening. We talked for about 45 minutes, and I decided to take the plunge.
I listen to mostly rock music, and since coupling these to the Osiris stands, I've been very happy. Bass was originally lacking, I thought. The coupling has made a huge difference. That being said, I can see where a sub may be needed when I get a house. The soundstage with these things is huge. Truthfully, at times I look at these while listening, wondering why the guitar is coming from a point a foot outside of where the speaker is located. There have even been times where it sounds as if the drumkit is higher than the other instruments, just like at a concert. Bass is tight, and I hear a lot of bass lines that I didn't even know existed on some recordings. After listening to Built To Spill - Keep It Like A Secret, last weekend, I think I finally know what imaging is. And I though that was one of my worst sounding CD's.
I'm currently in a loft apartment, and I believe it will be even better once I move into a house. For some reason, to me, live recordings sound especially good.
Bobby is the man. I have called and emailed constant times with questions and comments. I'm always greeted with " Hello, Mr. Lutes ". He's a true profesional, and a gentleman.
I would also like to thank fellow AA members, Sordidman, and Gbeard, for their off-line help. They're both TSM owners.

Product Weakness: Not a weakness, but if I had it to do over again, I would have got one of the painted finishes.
Product Strengths: Clarity, the ability to " disappear ". Build quality. Packaging quality. I could go on.

Associated Equipment for this Review:
Amplifier:	Manley Stingray
Preamplifier (or None if Integrated):	None
Sources (CDP/Turntable):	Arcam FMJ CD-23T
Speakers:	Merlin TSM
Cables/Interconnects:	Cardas Gold Reference
Music Used (Genre/Selections):	Rock, older styl country
Room Comments/Treatments:	Cathedral Ceilings, stairway, it's the weakest link, I believe.
Time Period/Length of Audition:	7 months
Type of Audition/Review:	Product Owner

Product Weakness:	Not a weakness, but if I had it to do over again, I would have got one of the painted finishes.
Product Strengths:	Clarity, the ability to " disappear ". Build quality. Packaging quality. I could go on.