Merlins are forgiving but deserving of a better front end, don't you think? SS is probably best on the demanding Dynaudio woofers but many have had success with tubes, esp. with the Tube harness now offered by Merlin.
Repairs/upgrades may be an issue due to age and origin. A Scott or Fisher integrated for the same money may offer =/better performance w/less audio nervosa, and fewer cables. You mention a recent listen, on what spkrs? Any hum/noise/smoke? Are replacment tubes available? Not to dissuade you but consider the many options. Let us know how you make out.
Repairs/upgrades may be an issue due to age and origin. A Scott or Fisher integrated for the same money may offer =/better performance w/less audio nervosa, and fewer cables. You mention a recent listen, on what spkrs? Any hum/noise/smoke? Are replacment tubes available? Not to dissuade you but consider the many options. Let us know how you make out.