Merida 120 or Anthem X3?

[Buffet]

Looking at buying a Merida 120 TFS800D. Mostly XT and SLX components. Manitou Minute fork with X Fusion O2rc shock.

Anthem X3 also a great ride but with lesser components for the same money. Both around R16 000. Cant make up my mind, test rode both and they both feel great. Any helpful comments? 

[mountain_lion]

I ride an Anthem X2, very happy with it.

Not familiar with the Merida, which shock and fork does it have?

The X3 spec is a bit low, which is why I bit the bullet and got the X2 (2010).

 

Try to ride both (trail ride if possible) and then decide which YOU like best.

 

[Cranky]

Personally I prefer the Anthem X geometry and the Fox shock and fork.