The First Watt F7 is an innovative Class A stereo power amplifier created by legendary audio designer Nelson Pass. Designed around an ultra-simple, two-stage push-pull topology with an exceptionally low component count, it utilizes matched JFETs at the input and a single pair of power MOSFETs per channel at the output. A key technical feature of the F7 is its unique balancing of subtle negative voltage feedback with positive current feedback, which lowers internal output impedance and boosts damping factor to deliver exceptional grip, transient response, and control over reactive speaker loads. Delivering 25 W per channel into 8 ohms, the F7 provides a clean, fluid, and highly detailed sound profile with low distortion and an expansive soundstage.
| Frequency response | DC až -3 dB @ 100 kHz |
|---|---|
| Input impedance | 10 kΩ |
| Power consumption | 170 Watts |
| Fuse | Typ 3AG pomalá (2,5 A pre 120 V AC / 1,25 A pre 240 V AC) |
| Gain | 14,5 dB |
| Noise | 100 µV nevážený, 20 Hz – 20 kHz |
| Distortion @ 1 Watt | 0,05 % |
| Damping Factor | > 100 |
| Output Power @ 8 Ω | 30 Watts @ 3 % THD, 1 kHz |
First Watt: The First Watt Philosophy and Purist Class-A Architecture
First Watt represents a visionary project created in 1998 by legendary audio engineer Nelson Pass, dedicated to exploring the boundaries of purist amplification outside mainstream commercial constraints. The brand is built upon Dick Olsher’s famous statement that "the first watt is the most important watt." If an amplifier fails to deliver texture and natural nuance at one watt, massive output capabilities become irrelevant. First Watt specializes exclusively in low-power Class-A amplifiers rated up to 25 watts, utilizing elegantly simple circuit topologies with minimal or zero global feedback.
By embracing minimal component count and prioritizing the performance of individual active gain devices, First Watt amplifiers deliver extraordinary micro-dynamics, captivating detail, and a fluid naturalness often compared to the finest tube designs, backed by solid-state reliability. Each design released by Nelson Pass represents a distinct sonic approach, incorporating specialized JFET and SIT power transistors or zero-feedback current-source topologes. First Watt amplifiers are engineered specifically for audiophiles utilizing high-efficiency loudspeakers who prioritize subjective musical performance, absolute transparency, and pure emotion over raw power. At Dream Audio, we proudly present these iconic masterpieces of conceptual high-end engineering.
Manufacturer information (GPSR)
Manufacturer
Pass Laboratories
13395 New Airport Road, Ste G Auburn, CA 95602 (530) 878 5350 USA
info@passlabs.com