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.

Vicks
Thanks. That is solid advise. Any comments on tweeter performance of the Zu?

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 TSMs, even in their latest versions do not exhibit real bass power, certainly not like the Zus. Consider that element carefully when thinking about your goals. TSMs have a wonderful midrange, but not the top end definition and purity of ribbon tweeters, for instance.
I've heard the Zu Definition and Def Pro. The original Definition has a spitty top end, which I didn't like but the later Pro was very nice, extended, and detailed on top.