Bookshelf Help: Revel v. Merlin v. SFaber v Vienna


It's not easy for me to listen to these speakers from where I'm currently located, so I figured I'd try to solicit some help from those more knowledgeable. The speakers I were considering:

1.Revel M20
2.Merlin TSM-M
3.Sonus Faber Concertino Domus/Home
4.Vienna Acoustics Haydn (admittedly, I know very little about this company)

I've done searches (there are a good deal of posts between Revel and Merlin with what equal amounts of praise for both. there are also a good deal of posts between Vienna and Sonus Faber with people apparently leaning toward the Vienna's) but am having trouble compiling all the information. First things first, a little about myself, my computer is my source and while I have a good deal of lossless music, I also have a fair amount of music with standard kbps (192-256). My understanding is that the Revel and Merlin might be very revealing of that. While I appreciate neutrality and honesty greatly, I also have a preference toward warmth and smoothness. Some things to consider, a speaker that is a little forgiving of placement (not a huge factor) is preferred and I listen to every type of music. I already know that the Revel's have much better bass than the Merlin's while the Merlin's might be a tad brighter. Synergy is important, so another thing worth noting is that I use a Classe integrated amp.

The most important aspect for me is that I want the speakers to be "musical." I worry if something is too analytical that it will not be good for me. This post isn't about which is "better" as I'm sure they're all fantastic and I probably couldn't lose going with any of them, but I'm trying to perhaps find one that might fit me better.
freckling

Showing 1 response by egidius

Hi,
first the disclaimer: I own both the latest generation VSM and TSM speakers.
Being a musician, I use these speakers for work. Beside that, I enjoy the TSM together with the Berning ZH270 more than I would ever have said it about the SF Guarneri, which used to be in my studio before.
You can do a lot with these speakers, they actually react to your equipment. Try it.