The ProAc 2.5 Speaker to my ears is more realistic and music like than most other speakers I have listened to. Speaker placement is critical as small changes greatly impacted the sound. The ProAc 2.5 Speaker presents the music better, is less colored and is more true to the music. When using the Rowland Concentra Integrated Amplifier and the ProAc 2.5, this combination sounded very good. I suggest you consider the ProAc 2.5 Speaker with good electronics.
Merlin vs. Totem vs. Verity vs.????
I'm having to replace my beloved Vandy IICE's with something physically smaller. Associated equipment is an Audio Research D-115 mk2 amp (100 watt) , LS-8 preamp ( both tube), CAL Audio CL-10, and MIT 750 cables). Leading candidates right now include the Merlin VSM-SE, The Totem Mani2's or Forests, perhaps ( a stretch financially) the Verity Fidelio's , if they're half as good as the awesome Parsifals, and anything else worth listening to at or below the size and price of the Merlins. Question is, what should be in this group? The ProAc 2.5s have been recommended. How about the Meadowlarks? Anything else that ought to be in contention? JimB