Yup, Nola speakers. There were also some Audio Research components doing some work in the rig, including amplification. I've been reading all these high-end speaker reviews for so long now without actually listening that I figured I needed a point of reference. This setup was the best I have heard (not saying much, though). I finally understood "holographic" imaging. Steely Dan sounded like they were in the room (Aja was the CD we listened to). The sense of separation, air, space, and the human interaction with the instruments were fantastic. But I didn't find it "perfect." We listened at volumes higher than I usually do. And the sound signature was very forward. Not exactly bright, but the bass and lows were so well-controlled that it sounded almost like they were kicked into the mids if that makes any sense. I suppose what I'm saying is that I feel the system could have used a pinch of warmth. I wonder if this is just my untrained ear seeking a certain comfort level, or if I was properly identifying a real characteristic? I suppose the only answer is to go listen to more equipment!
The sales guy was very nice and spent some time with us (my wife was there, too) even though it was clear we weren't buying anything, which has not been my experience in other hi-fi stores. No Stax phones, though...