I've been using my Merlin TSM-MX's in a 13x19 room with Arcam AV gear. I can assure you they are very musical, not at all sterile even with these modestly priced electronics and cabling. I also have Joules in my other 2-channel room, and yes, the TSM's with those amps are outrageously good (musically rich, but still tonally very neutral).
In a 10x12 room you could probably go on the diagonal if it makes sense from a furnishings standpoint. That would get you back a little further from them and maybe help the bass.
In a 10x12 room you could probably go on the diagonal if it makes sense from a furnishings standpoint. That would get you back a little further from them and maybe help the bass.