F3 vs SIT-5
The SIT-5's power @ 8ω is 35W against the F3's 15W, its power @ 4ω 60W against 10W, its damping factor 25 against 8, and its thd 0.100% against 0.010%.
AI-generated product photo — not official manufacturer imagery.
AmplifiersPower AmplifiersDiscontinued
Estimated price (community-sourced)
$8,995
Around — community and catalog average, updates slowly
About the F3
The First Watt F3, designed by Nelson Pass, is the world's first commercially available power JFET amplifier in modern times, utilizing advanced vertical power JFETs reintroduced after a 30-year absence. It employs a unique Modulated Cascode circuit for adjustable load line optimization, achieving exceptionally low distortion of 0.01% at 1 watt or even 0.003% into 8 ohms. As a pure single-ended Class A design, it produces second harmonic-dominated distortion, offering SET-like immediacy, transient speed, and textural softness without tube maintenance issues. Optimized for high-efficiency speakers (90 dB/W or greater), it excels with 4-16 ohm loads, runs hot at around 200W consumption and 45-55°C, and is no longer in production with parts like Lovoltech JFETs discontinued. Highly regarded for control, quietness, and musicality, it's available on the used market.
Specifications
Power Specifications
Amplification power output and characteristics
- Power @ 8Ω
- 15W @ 8Ω
- Power @ 4Ω
- 10W @ 4Ω
- Amplifier Class
- A
- Damping Factor
- 8
Analog Output
Analog signal output specifications
- THD
- 0.010%
- Output Impedance
- 0Ω
Connectivity
Input and output connections
- Bluetooth
- No
- Wi-Fi
- No
- Ethernet
- No
- Analog Inputs
- RCA
Physical Dimensions
Size, weight, and appearance
- Dimensions
- 533 × 229 × 457 mm (W × H × D)
- Weight
- 14.1 kg (31 lbs)
Key Specifications
Power: 15W
Specifications are community-contributed and may not be accurate or complete. Verify all details with the manufacturer before making purchasing decisions. Terms & Conditions