Olympica Nova III or V?


Hi there everyone,

I have an option to buy either the Sonus Faber Olympica Nova III or Nova V. We have a 19.6’ by 22.9’ living area (6mx7m). Ceiling is sloaping, loft-style 1 1/2 volume. I love the Nova but I don’t have the opportunity to demo these in the space unfortunately. I’m also limited in how far forward from the walls I can place them. 
 

Do I go III and risk it sounding thin, or V and risk being overwhelming for room?

 

Which would you recommend if it were your decision? Any advice would be welcome! 

 

any comments or feedback would be great. 

stephenwerner

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. 

Nova V is the way. Got mine 3 years ago and I feel they will be my last tower speakers until I have to downsize system and living space. Sound is so full, detailed, and airy even with my SS amp (McCormack DNA 225). Listened to them for 3-4 months without a sub and blew me away. Decided to add my REL T9 to 2ch portion of system. Blended well with Nova V helped Classical pieces sound better

@kofibaffour Your description of the SF sound left me scratching my head. If anything, I find the sound a little too rolled off and forgiving. I owned Olympica II and then III. Both driven by Audio Research integrated amps -- GSi75 and VSi75. We all hear differently and have our preferences, but this combo left a lot to be desired. Ultimately, I decided that the SF sound was not for me but quite obviously the company is doing something right, otherwise, it wouldn't have lasted this long as a premiere speaker brand. They make beautifully sculpted cabinets with fine Italian leather.