Goldenear Reference Vs. Focal Sopra #2.....pocket the $5k difference and don't look back?

12hz.....   at 12db.   

OP, just take your favorite music and listen to both and make up your own mind. Just make sure you consider the differences in the pairing electronics and room set up in your final decision. I'm sure you already knew all this.

12hz..... at 12db.

@contuzzi 

Not sure what you mean. Perhaps you are right "Ignorance is bliss. Truly."

http://www.soundstagenetwork.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=1770:nrc-measu...

I just recently found myself in your same situation of choosing between Focal Sopra 2 and the GE Reference.  After hearing both, I choose the Reference.  

To produce the same frequency range as the GE's, I would have needed to buy a sub with the Sopra 2's.  This may not be the case for your room, but I took it into consideration.  

I also prefer the overall sound signature of the Reference, but that may be due to the fact that I have been living with Triton Ones for the last few years.  

If looks played a bigger role in my decision making, I would have bought the Sopra 2's, but I was focused on the best sound for the money.  

gdhal: You calling me ignorant is truly hilarious considering that you are taking the measurement from focal at -6db, but not the Golden Ear.    The -6 on the GE is 18hz (which is impressive of course, but not that impressive considering that it has a power sub with DSP built in).  I know you want to defend your speakers, but try to have some credibility instead of throwing numbers around nonsensically.  If you can't make it a fair comparison, don't bother calling others ignorant.

Thanks for the laughs.