The Reference 3a are by far superior to the 704, they are in another league, however, the tower speakers are not what R3a is known for superb sound. R3a's are magnificent monitor speaker, from the master controls, to the royal master's, di cappo's and ducets, until very recently they have launched the only ultra high end towers in the Veena series, (excluding la suprema which was a combination of monitor and subwoofer in a tower arrangement and were super expensive).
So, if your option is between the r3a's and the 704's the decision is very simple.... trust your ears, you said it yourself, they were better,
good luck,