Opinion on Zu speakers vs Merlin tsm

I have owned both the Merlin TSMs and the Zu Druid Mk IV and Zu Defintion Mk II. IMO all excellent speakers but also very different. The Zus are very dynamic and have excellent tone and can be driven by low powered amplifiers but not as resolving in the uppers as other speakers. Merlins have wonderful resolution and soundstage but need more careful partnering with amps. I loved both of them but if I had to choose looking back I would take the Merlins.

Others have remarked that the Zu in the latest iteration - Mk IV - is much improved in the upper registries but I would strongly recommend you audition before purchasing as the Zu house sound is not for everyone.

In the Zu Mk II IMO I thought tweeter performance was one of its weaknesses. I remember when I switched to the ASI Tango speaker and the first thing I noticed was increased resolution over the Zus. However, the sum of the Zu is greater than its parts and often you would not notice this as it does so many other things so well.

The Zu Definition II superseded the Pro and I did not find the top end always to be nice, extended and detailed on top and I owned these speakers for a significant period of time.

There is currently a lengthy thread about the new Zu Definition IV and I suggest you take a look. 213Cobra is very helpful on the subject of Zu speakers.

James