I had the opportunity to audition a pair of SF Cremona Auditors (not the M version though) in my home earlier this year, and the dealer was generous enough to let me have them for a week. I thought they were lifeless and dull compared to the Proacs I already had. Even my wife noticed this and she rarely offers opinions about my system. I heard the Olympica 1s at the dealer (new, they were out of my price range) and of the two they were my clear favorite--livelier by far, with a bigger soundstage and just an all-around more appealing personality. I think they would suit your taste very well.
Sonus Faber Cremona Auditors or Olympica I
I am looking to buy a pair of Sonus Faber monitors to go in my living room, a less than ideal listening space. On the used market the cost of a pair of newer Olympica I are slightly more than the cost of the older Cremona (or Cremona M) Auditors. Right now I have a pair of full-size Liutos that I really like but I think they’re a little too big for the space. My associated equipment is all PS Audio (Memory Player transport, DSD DAC, BHK Preamp, BHK amp).
I am looking for recommendations/insights into the strengths and weaknesses of one vs the other. My understanding is that the Olympica is a different sound from the Cremonas. Some have said that the Cremonas sound a lot like the Guarneri Mementos at half the price. I listen mostly to jazz and vocalists (Sinatra, Bobby Short, Diana Krall, James Taylor, etc.)
Thanks!
I am looking for recommendations/insights into the strengths and weaknesses of one vs the other. My understanding is that the Olympica is a different sound from the Cremonas. Some have said that the Cremonas sound a lot like the Guarneri Mementos at half the price. I listen mostly to jazz and vocalists (Sinatra, Bobby Short, Diana Krall, James Taylor, etc.)
Thanks!