Help with a tube amp recommendation

As a Berning/Merlin owner, I agree w/the recommendation above. However, IME going direct from the Wadia would be a mistake. The Merlins will sound better with the BAM in the tape loop of an active preamp.
Of the 3 amps you mention, the Manleys and VAC are making other Merlin owners happy, while the BAT would be last on my list as far as preference. Granted, Merlins sound great w/wide variety of amps, but if you are going to choose, I'd rate those mentioned here: Berning, Manley, VAC then BAT. Cheers,
Spencer

I'm going to be a bit of contrarian. Having had all 3, I prefer the sound of "conventional" OTL amps (Joule and Atma-sphere) to the Berning with VSM-MMs. And to be a bit more contrarian, right now I prefer the Atma M60s to the Joule.

I'm presently using an tube integrated - Audiomat Prelude Reference Mk2 with my Merlins. Great sound.

I too highly recommend the Berning ZH270. I have had mine with the VSM-mms and now the VSM-MXs. Cello, Vetterone and Musicpre have all stated what I have experienced with the Berning in my system. Perhaps you could tell us where you are and might be able to find one near you for a listen. You really need to hear the Berning with Merlins.

Peter

I own TSM-MM's and two Berning’s (ZH-270 and MicroZOTL headphone amp). The Bernng’s are dead quiet, run at room temperature - not sizzling hot like some OTL amps and the tubes should last for most of my lifetime. The Berning has a fantastic track record for reliability and this makes it a great long term investment. Quality, synergy and great sound never go out of style.