It is very difficult to compare the two. Completely different rooms with different electronics. Both performed well, but my preference based on inexact comparison would be the encores. They were outstanding, very open with great detail, but also excellent tone and imaging. I did not get to hear them compared to the Exoticas, which would have been an interesting comparison. I have heard many Salk speakers at multiple shows. Of all that I have heard, within my price range, the Encore would be at the top of the list.