Merlin Tarantula Mains review

The Merlin Tarantula is better than run-of-the-mill mains cables, delivering taut bass, but music doesn't flow as freely as it does with other cables Tested at £60.00

By
published

What Hi-Fi? Verdict

Better than run-of-the-mill mains cable, reproducing taut bass, but music doesn't flow as freely as it does with some other cables

Pros

  • +

    Bass notes sound taut and nicely defined

  • +

    crisp treble without being harsh

Cons

  • -

    Can be a little sluggish with music

Why you can trust What Hi-Fi? Our expert team reviews products in dedicated test rooms, to help you make the best choice for your budget. Find out more about how we test.

Like the Ixos Overture XHP425-UK, the Merlin Tarantula will produce better results than a run-of-the-mill mains cable.

Bass notes sound taut and nicely defined. There's a great feeling of crispness and bite in the treble without it ever coming across as being harsh.

However, there are a few performance flaws that hinder the cable's rating. Rhythmically, the Tarantula isn't as confident or sure-footed as the top cables at this price.

Music doesn't quite flow as freely or as smoothly as it does with the Chord Company SuperScreen and vocals aren't allowed the same amount of space to breath.

Follow whathifi.com on Twitter

Join whathifi.com on Facebook

What Hi-Fi?
What Hi-Fi?

What Hi-Fi?, founded in 1976, is the world's leading independent guide to buying and owning hi-fi and home entertainment products. Our comprehensive tests help you buy the very best for your money, with our advice sections giving you step-by-step information on how to get even more from your music and movies. Everything is tested by our dedicated team of in-house reviewers in our custom-built test rooms in London, Reading and Bath. Our coveted five-star rating and Awards are recognised all over the world as the ultimate seal of approval, so you can buy with absolute confidence.

Read more about how we test