[Goodwine59]

Hi There,
Is anyone using the Stratos with the Merlin TSM MME's?. If so, are you using the the zobel networks?.
I'm currently considering replacing my Meadowlark Kestrels (Hotrods) with the Merlins and want to get a feeling if will be a good match. Since I live outside continental USA, I don't have the opportunity of auditioning before purchasing. Guys, your comments will be appreciated. Thank you, all.

[TomS]

I currently have the Odyssey Stratus Extreme SE Mono's with VSM-MX's and do use the Zobel networks on mine.  To be perfectly honest, I haven't found a difference that I can hear, but choose to follow Bobby's recommendation to use them anyway.  I used to have TSM-MX's, but with the Joule VZN100's that I had before the Odysseys, as well as an Arcam P1000 multi-channel amp for HT.  I used the Zobel networks with the Joule/TSM's as well, based on recommendations.  I've actually found a more substantial difference from changing the jumpers, than whether the Zobels were on or not.

Tom

[Goodwine59]

Hi Tom,

Thanks for your comments, they are appreciated. Based on your experience with the TSM-MX's, do you feel there is synergy with the Stratos?. BTW, seems like there are few Startos/Merlin users.
Once again, thank you.

Cesar

[TomS]

It really depends on your taste.  Both Merlins are VERY revealing and can also be a little on the lean side depending on the associated components.  The Stratos Extreme SE version I have, while not the last word in midrange transparency and top end air, is still extremely good.  It's smoother and more open in the upper mids than any of the other Stratos' I've heard.  The very slightly warmer Odyssey tonal balance complements the lean nature of the Merlin.  The Candela seems to work hand in hand with this, providing a very nice overall balance.  Some would think this to be too much tinkering with the components to get the sound you want.  To me it's just a very good synergy such that they complement each other very well.  As Klaus seems to have intended, the "soul" still shines through.

[Goodwine59]

Thank you, Sir 

[TomS]

No problem at all. 

I think you'll find the TSM's are a slight bit less fussy about associated gear than the VSM's are.  I had very satisfactory results with the Arcam HT amp, McCormack DNA-500, Joule VZN100's, and a BEL 1001 though all are very different.  I really wish I could have tried them with the amp I currently have, a Bella Extreme 3205, which is very nice with the VSM's.

Unfortunately, I know nothing about the Meadowlarks so can't provide any contrast with the TSM's for you.  Good luck!

Tom

[drphoto]

TSM-M (soon to have MM upgrade) user w/ original Stratos monos (upgrade caps) and Tempest pre. I like the setup fine, though sometimes I wished I gone and listened something like Harbeth, ProAc or the old school Spendors, for something a little warmer and more 'euphonic'.

Sort of not fair for me to comment though, as I have the rig in a sonically lousy room. When I heard the Sasson LTD speaker here, it sounded just "ok", but when I heard it at Marbles place, I thought it was one of the best speakers I'd ever come across....(and my upstream components are not quite what he has, but not too far behind)

I'm not using the Zobels. I couldn't tell any difference, so it was just something less in the circuit.

Merlins are no doubt fine speakers, and its amazing what Bobby can do w/ the fairly humble Morel drivers in the TSM. I would suggest trying to find used, and then you could always get back your money as they are in demand.

BTW: Bobby told me that if I like the TSM-M, I will 'soil my pants' when I hear them w/ the MM upgrade.

[Goodwine59]

Thanks for your comments... the consensus is that the new mme's are definitely an improvement; at least they match well with solid state amps.