George, I had a similar problem to yours a bit ago. I have the Merlins, the Berning and an Audiomecca Mephisto. I have been using the Golden Refs as speaker cables ever since I got the Merlins both before and after I got the Berning. My problem was solved with a switch of ics between the cd player and preamp. I moved my purenotes from between the cd player and preamp to between the preamp and the Berning and then switch in some Luminous Synchestra refs between the cd player and pre. Voila my brightness problem was solved and my system has been incredible ever since.
I think my problem was, at least in part, the room. I have treated it to a degree but can't give it a full treatment. My ceiling is on the low side and I think I get some nasty reflections off of it. If your situation is anything like mine, and based on my experience, I seriously doubt the Berning is the culprit. Rather, I am with those who posted above, it is most likely your placement of the Merlins and/or your cables.
I think my problem was, at least in part, the room. I have treated it to a degree but can't give it a full treatment. My ceiling is on the low side and I think I get some nasty reflections off of it. If your situation is anything like mine, and based on my experience, I seriously doubt the Berning is the culprit. Rather, I am with those who posted above, it is most likely your placement of the Merlins and/or your cables.