Looking for thoughts on Sonus Faber speakers

op

sonus fabers qualify for the type of sound you seek

past, higher level s-f’s were wonderful with classical and vocals, if they could be criticized, it was they would not ’boogie’ and sometimes smeared transients on more ’exciting’ music

more modern higher level s-f models seem to have cured that ill (of being too smooth and refined, dark) and play with more vigor when called on to do so

still, s-f’s will never offend with bright, piercing treble or a ’too forward’ presentation

other speakers in the same school of sound would be harbeths, vandersteens, classic spendors, and, at a somewhat lower level of resolution, wharfedales

It sounds like Sonus Faber are the perfect fit for you. Once I turned from being infatuated with planar speakers for over thirty years and wanted more realistic, balanced speakers I got SF. First, Cremona, then Olympica 3, and now Amati Traditional. I can't speak too highly of them. 
 

I agree with @soundwatts try and find a set of used Olympica 3. Their performance will be up another level.

On the other hand, I had purchased the Cremona as experiment... which was very short lived. Nearly as soon as I had them in my house I knew Sonus Faber was what I was looking for and I immediately ordered the Olympica 3... of which the first shipment was on a ship steaming towards th US at that time. So if you buy from a dealer like me, he will apply all the cost of the first pair towards an upgrade for a year or so. Couple be a good gateway. Each level in SF nets significant sound quality improvement.

I’ve owned 3 different Sonus faber series

- Venere 3.0

- Sonetto V

- Olympic Nova V

I think there are excellent speakers for $5k and at that price I really like the Sonetto V.  I don't think you'd regret the decision.  I prefer the walnut veneer but I likely am biased

Thank you all for the advice.  Much appreciated. Any thoughts on how KEF

R7 and R11 will compare?   I will be auditioning them this weekend. I have a feeling 

I'll end up with Sonus Fabers. But I want to give them a listen. 

the kef r series will have a more overtly forward treble presentation, and a relatively 'sucked back' midrange than the upper s-f's -- not sure how bass will compare, that depends alot on setup and room interaction