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Low heat alternative to FIRSTWATT J2 ?

Any Gainclone or Class D or battery power alternatives available? I like the crazy good micro dynamics and rhythmic cohesion of the J2. My speakers are 93db full range. Also interested in AMP/DAC combinations like the devialet or NAD D7050 that meet the J2 performance (those 2 mentioned don't)
zuio
charles1dad's avatar
charles1dad
10,250 posts
 
Bojack I'm inclined to agree with you. I'd keep the First Watt compared to the other alternatives suggested. Not so sure they will sound better than the F.W. J2.
keithr
1,306 posts
 
Just a small correction- the J2 does have negative feedback.

OP: Ayre and DarTZeel are the two A/B amps (cooler) that don't use negative feedback. The latter has a new integrated with built-in DAC which might interest you.
zd542
5,339 posts
 
"01-13-15: Keithr
Just a small correction- the J2 does have negative feedback."

I didn't know that. I thought all Pass amps were 0 feedback. Thanks for the info.

Talking about Pass amps and heat, I just remembered that one of my Pass amps burst into flames right in my living room. It was actually kind of funny. But not to worry, it was an Aleph, not a Firstwatt. Most likely the problem is fixed in the newer models.
aberyclark
1,410 posts
 
How hot does the J2 get?
radiohead99
79 posts
 
I recently got myself a J2 and they don't get that hot. Less heat than a push pull tube amp. I was very concerned about heat given I live in small NYC apartment. But it's totally manageable. It doesn't heat up my room. Make sure to have the amp in an open space. I can keep my hands on the amp chassis without getting bothered by heat.
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