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Focal/JM Labs Nova Utopia Be

I'm going to be acquiring these speakers next week as replacement to my Dynaudio Countour S3.4s (a significant upgrade to say the least). Provided the size of the speaker and the low frequency response, I am wondering if any owners or previous owners of similar speakers have experienced any difficulties incorporating beasts such as these into a moderately sized room. My system resides in a 20' x 13' room with the speakers/electronics along the short wall. The corners, first reflection points and rear walls are acoustically treated. Additionaly, the stated nominal impedence is 8 ohms with the minimal impedence dipping to 3.6 . Would it be advisable to utilize to 4 ohm taps of my Mac amp rather than the 8s? Thanks in advance. New speakers is always both an exiciting and daunting venture...
adamg
adamg OP
89 posts
 
Thanks Focalfan and Mechans. I'm certain that the Stella's are superior to the Nova's in every conceivable manner. However, provided the current retail cost of the Stella's ($95,000 here in Canada), the Nova's at 1/4 the price are certainly the more economically effective solution.
auxetophone
114 posts
 
You should always try the taps one up and one down from the speaker's impedance by ear, unless the amp manufacturer specifically warns against it. Very often the sound is markedly better on one tap than the other, and you want to know about that firsthand.
lubes3
35 posts
 
I'm considering replacing my Wilson W/P8s with Focal Novas. Pricing on the Novas has come way down since the new series of Focals has been released. The Wilsons sound pretty good in my room, but don't go as low as my old PBNs. They are also a little tilted in the mid bass and top end.

My room is similar to yours w/dimensions of 20' x 14.5' x 8'. With a large open door to the living/dining area about 4' behind the listening couch.

Any comparisons or comments? How do the Novas work in your room?

Regards,
Brett
wrm57
1,040 posts
 
Hey Brett,

Remember, make sure your wife likes the looks BEFORE you buy this time! :)

Best,
Bill
lubes3
35 posts
 
Hey Bill, how'd the PBN's work out?

Yeah, as you know my wife doesn't share my enthusiasm for all things audio!! She has adjusted to the Wilsons, but still thinks they're ugly as sin!!

There is a smokin' deal on the net for a pair of Focal Novas, but have been told they may be too big for my 20'x14.5'x8' room. I have heard the Scalas at a dealer and thought they sounded fantastic. Very smooth with great extension. Similar to the Wilsons, but go lower without the midbass bump and a little smoother on top. I think they are more attractive than the Wilson's, but my wife still prefers the warmth of wood veneers, oh well.
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