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Can you provide context on First Watt?

Hi all,

I just signed up for this forum. After 30 years of enjoying my Rotel/B&W setup that I bought in college, I decided it is time for an upgrade. Yes, I know ... 30 years. Anyway, for the last two months I've gone deep down the rabbit hole trying to get caught up with the audiophile world. 
 

Long story short, after all of my reading and assessing my needs, I decided on a combination of components and speakers. This week I've made two big purchases: a Wyred4Audio STP SE pre with stage 2 upgrades and a First Watt J2 amp (both purchased used). As far as I can tell, though, First Watt (Nelson Pass) doesn't seem to be making new amps, except for the F7? I just noticed that Reno HiFi is no longer in business. 

Could someone update me on the current status of First Watt? And, if down the road I ever require a service, would I contact Pass Labs for that?

Thanks for your time in orienting a 55-year old newbie to the scene.

Tal

surlydale
soix
8,739 posts
 

As long as you are in Colorado, and possibly in the Denver area, check out YG acoustic speakers.

YG makes great speakers, but they’re not suitable for First Watt amps given their sensitivity and impedance specs just fyi, but by all means go listen if at all possible. You also have Boulder and Ayre in the Denver area I think so go play if you can, and welcome to A’gon!!!

whoopycat
165 posts
 

Pass Labs service is outstanding, possibly the best in the industry. I emailed Nelson a question about dimming bulbs on my SIT-2 and he shipped out replacement bulbs to me without my even asking. He even followed up to make sure I received them.  I have a SIT-2 and a SIT-3 and I've owned a couple others.  That J2 amp may outlive you. Enjoy.

Nelson is designing new First Watt amps, I believe SIT-4 is next up, which appears to be a reissue of the SIT-2 but with differently sourced SIT transistors.

pangeek
18 posts
 

Also try to look into Omega Speakers.  I’m super happy with my Alnico Super 6 XRS that I bought used.  Sounds amazing and since they are single driver and high efficiency speakers, they will pair well with your first watt amp.  Luis Chochos makes them in the USA.  

ronboco
744 posts
 

@surlydale 

The Colorado audio society is having a club meeting this Friday the 17th at YG acoustics at 5:30 pm. Might be a great time to go check out their speakers and have a listen. 
 

regards 

Ron 

rbertalotto
137 posts
 

Here is my journey with First Watt F5v2.....Totally one of  the best sounding amplifiers I ever owned...And in the article is the GoTo guy to help fix the First Watt DIY products.... http://rvbprecision.com/stereo/nelson-pass-first-watt-f5-turbo-v2.html

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