Speaker choice : need help between Nola and Sonus Faber

thanks for both of the responses so far!  And definitely good points to think about as far as matching the character ( I think the Prima Luna is "forward" and not too dark etc in ultra linear mode)

It would be helpful to know what speakers you've heard so we have a relative reference for making recommendations.  That said, I've heard several Nola models and had the Venere 2.5s in my system on demo, which I'd assume have a similar sonic signature to the 3.0s.  If warm is your preference and 70s recordings are in heavy rotation I'd skew toward the Nolas.  The Veneres are very good, but they are not the warm, forgiving speaker that is the more traditional SF sound.  They still have very good tonality to be sure, but the treble has ventured into more incisive and detailed territory that may not work best for your recordings and preferences.  To my mind SF is targeting a different customer segment with the Venere line and has designed a voiced them toward that end.  Looking elsewhere in the SF line may be a better idea for your needs.  Nolas IME are one of those speakers that can provide very good imaging while also being a little warmish and somewhat forgiving of non-audiophile approved recordings.  I didn't check the specs of your amp, but whatever way you go you'll obviously want to make sure your amp can power the speakers properly.  Hope this helps and best of luck. 

I agree with soix; ensure that whichever speakers you choose your amp has more than enough power to drive them.

Thanks everyone.  Currently have Totem Sttaf which I really like but need to go slightly larger speaker in bigger room.  They work well in the smaller room with the current amp. I like the Totem character but feel the need to go different route if I am buying a new speaker.  Totem Forest seems to fit the bill for my budget and needs but not real excited about opening the wallet for them when I can go a different route and get something totally new.  I am leaning toward the Nola Contender.  (besides the Nola and Sonus Faber are more sensitive and likely better fit for the amp as well)

Another option that images very well, is tube friendly, and probably slots somewhere between Nola and Totem in terms of treble detail is the Silverline Prelude Plus.  Not that it should mean much to you, but given your preferences (which seem similar to mine BTW) and equipment the one I'd be looking for over all these in this price range would be the Joseph Audio RM25XL, although they don't come up for sale too often.  Again, best of luck in your search.