I second the Stingray recommendation for Merlins. But EL34 in general is the way I would go rather than 6550/KT88 - at least with the VSMs, and I would think the TSMs as well, but I would discuss it with Bobby P (Mr. Merlin) - he knows his speaker well.
Cary, Cayin or Primaluna EL34 for Merlin VSM-MME
I'm looking for an amp or my Merlin VSM-MME speakers. I know it's been asked many times before, and I've read most of the threads out there. The consensus seems to be that an EL34 based tube integrated is the best choice. Unfortunately the Ars-Sonum is out of my price range. I’ve got three amps that seem very similar on my radar and I’m looking for any opinions, comparisons, or/and criticisms.
1) Cary SLI50
2) Primaluna Prologue One
3) Cayin A50T
All are around $1000 used and have enough power.
1) Cary SLI50
2) Primaluna Prologue One
3) Cayin A50T
All are around $1000 used and have enough power.