Tom maybe you could describe the sound of your system, and we could extrapolate the differences from that to a certain extent. As you know I have the Berning and Syrah and VSM-M which I intend to upgrade the the MX. The sound is like reproduced music should sound to me, true to the way it was recorded, no embellishment which means on great recordings you can be transported to the venue without ever analyzing what is missing. The highs are very extended, the bass especially with the Berning has no overhang whatsoever, complete control which keeps pace with everything else, not as deep as some designs but with the Berning it is a moot point IMO, it sounds right, closer to real bass. This is testimony to the amp as well as the speakers. With all stereovox cables the presentation is convincingly there.
If the Gallo's have any kind of signature you are going to hear it when you listen to the Merlin/Berning combo. Then you'll have to decide which sound you prefer which is always the bottom line in these matters. Of course the Merlins have a presentation that could be considered a certain signature, live but not lively, not deliberately pulled back as in some designs but tonally they are as balanced as any dynamic design I am familiar with. Their high frequency extension and smoothness, when mated with complementary components is quite special.
Will