Olympica Nova III or V?

Then I have no explanation. I have twenty years of experience with Sonus Faber and they have never under any circumstances sounded like that. They are musical and forgiving speakers that sound natural. 

I've always been curious on the Sonus Faber offerings but have never been able to audition them.  I assume synergy is big with them like anything and room is a huge factor. 

Curious how someone can consider them harsh and grating and other people find them to be natural and forgiving.  I know we all have different preferences but seem like love or hate type designs from this conversation.  Of course it's one person in this thread but they're not the first person I've heard say they didn't enjoy the SF sound.  They certainly look gorgeous but that's personally a low priority for me when sound is concerned

One man's "transparent" is another man's "unforgiving." Some would consider the treble to be sweet, detailed, and refined, while to the ears of another, it's harsh and brittle. Bass can have an elegant bloom or a muddy boom. A natural and nuanced midrange might strike someone else as nasal and fatiguing.

Measurements aside, you like what you like, and you use the words that describe your preferences. Fortunately, we all get to buy whatever we want (and can afford)!

I have the Olympia Nova III’s in a 18’ x 22’ listening room with the speakers 2’ from the wall. Ceiling is 8’. Running vintage MC 275 & C34. 
Find the sound warm and defined ( vocals) for the Blues that is my main listening preference. Bass is good and not overwhelming. I was informed by dealer I would appreciate them more with greater power. Have also a HK Citation 16 ( like vintage) amp and sound is also very good although not as warm. 

Since you like the SF sound I think either would be a good choice but due your ceiling I would get the V’s if budget allows to be on safe side. Happy Listening!!!
 

@jmanw

This is why listening to live acoustic music like symphonies, small jazz groups and individual instruments can train your ear to the real thing can be so useful. This gives you an empirical ruler with which to compare reproduced sound.