2. amps-preamps
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First Watt to Pass Labs

I am considering buying a First Watt or Pass Labs preamp and amp. I've never compared the units side by side, but I see the benefit of the First Watt simple circuit approach.

So I am confused to see some Audiogoners selling their First Watt gear and moving to Pass Labs gear.

Would you please share your thoughts on the transition? Did you just need more power? Does one sound better than the other? I realize it's all subjective, but curious to hear your thoughts.

Also, if anyone has compared the First Watt amps and preamps to the Pass Labs amps and preamps, I'd be curious to hear your thoughts. Thanks!
bigamp

Showing 7 responses by jeff1225

jeff1225
172 posts
 
Read his post again. It's the reason I used insensitive in quotes.
jeff1225
172 posts
 
I agree with both posts above. I have a J2 that I think is the best amp ive owned. The imaging, detail and articulation are beyond reproach. BUT...I have two other pieces of equipment that mate with the J2:

Hovland HP-100: Needs an amp with high input impedance, the J2 is 100K
Avantgarde: 102DB and horns need little dampening
jeff1225
172 posts
 
I listened to the following Pass amps:

-FW J2
-FW F3
-Pass 350.5

And I have to say the J2 was the best in MY system. For 107 DB, the F3 should be awesome if the output impedience works. My Hovland needed more tan the F3.

Mark at Reno hifi is a great guy. Call him up, and audition a few amps to make your choice.
jeff1225
172 posts
 
Also, 6 Moons reviewed and compared all the First Watt amps. Check out the site.
jeff1225
172 posts
 
I'm really enjoying the First Watt J2. I tried out a F3 first and there was an impediance miss match with my preamp (Hovland has a low output).

Mark at Reno Hifi is one of the greatest retailers I've worked with. He shipped me the F3 and then shipped me the J2.
jeff1225
172 posts
 
Very...104.
jeff1225
172 posts
 
Larry,
I'm currious that you found the amp "insensitive." It has an imput impedience of 100K which should make it very "sensitive." The F3 on the other hand has very low imput impedience.
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