I have the Nola Contender speakers at home and think they are a competant speaker for the price. However the only way you will know whether the Acoustic Zen Adagio is better it to try it in your own system. Remember, how the speakers sound will depend on room and amplifier interaction - not on reviews or specification sheets.
Nola Conteneder OR Acoustic Zen Adagio
Please offer your thoughts. I have a Primaluna Dialogue Two integrated tube amp (40 watts) and I listen to jazz and classic rock on a Clearaudio Concept table and a Marantz SA 8003 SACD player in my 14 x 23 foot living room that has a 10 foot high ceiling. I have a pair of Sonus Faber Cremona Auditor speakers (monitors on stands) and I want a fuller/taller/wider sound stage -- with depth, great presence of voice and specific instrument placement. I want to see the music in front of me as much as I want to feel it. I am leaning strongly toward the Nola Contender and the Acoustic Zen Adagio speakers -- to replace the Sonus Fabers -- because they are in my price range and I like how they look and sound (nice highs, warm mids, and a supported bottom end). After reading the reviews and hearing each speaker on different occasions I see the sense if buying either but before I pull the trigger on just one I'd like to get some feedback from the members, here. What do you like and dislike about either or both of these speakers? Thank you for your considered thoughts. Cal.