Does anyone love the First Watt SIT2

Here's a thread from Audio Asylum in 2005:

http://www.audioasylum.com/cgi/t.mpl?f=tweaks&m=118236

Hi guys, sorry to revive an old thread however I have just managed to obtain a brand new SIT-2 amplifier and am looking for some advice whether direct source connection to the SIT-2 or a DHT-preamp in between is preferred.

Nelson Pass wrote the following in the SIT-2 Manual:

The SIT-1 and SIT-2 amplifiers can be driven in “direct mode” where the source components looks directly at the Gate of the SIT without other active components in between. This is desirable, but in this case the input impedance is 10 Kohms...

Am I understanding the above statement correctly? Can any owners of the SIT-1 or SIT-2 provide some input on this? Direct to amp or a DHT-pre in between, which do you guys prefer?


2nd, If preamp is preferred, anyone have any experience with Shindo Monbrison or Masseto paired with the SIT-2?


3rd, Would a tube DAC, say a lampizator, in lieu of a DHT-preamp provide the same effect?

Thanks & regards

I used my Sit 2 for 4 years and loved every minute of it. I changed it only to go the 300b route and now a 45 tube.  I wish I had it back to hear one in my current system. 

i think your question can be answered in general "using a pre or not".... I mostly used a preamp. Shindo, dht the 1p4l (diy), my favorite was the Dht from Vinnie rossi. That combo was unfortunately the most expensive and favorite. The auto former volume, I think was dave slagle was probably a huge reason I favored that.  I also have the big 7 with out volume but have gone direct. I do believe simpe is often better but always prefered the active preamp route.To contradict more... I have recently purchased a EMIA passive pre and LOVE it on my desktop system with a 45 amp.
I may have confused you more than helping by offering more options but wanted to share my experence.