Yesterday I visited the local Passlab/FW dealer (who happens to be the local Chord dealer, too) and managed to listen to some 95 dB speakers with FW F7, SIT-2, PL XA25 and with BluDave direct. In our 4 hours session BluDave direct delivered the most detailed presentation and separation of the soundstage. However, even that we could drive the Dave loud enough with these speakers (around -10 / -5 dB setting on the Dave) the general presentation missed the fulness and airiness we experienced with the external amps. Dave produced a loud, detailed but "thin" sound which missed the background of the power (amp) even when playing in a near-field setup.
I would say that among the above low power amps the XA25 seems to be the one which can be used in the most situation. Playing any kind of music it was a top performer with the most power among the three amps. Listening to Bill Evans' My Man's Gone Now (Sunday At The Village Vanguard) the XA25 provided the most beautiful and widest soundstage I have ever heared. What really surprised me that the XA25 gave the most SET like colorful sound. Something I expected from the SIT-2 based on the reviews I had taken a look into.
The SIT-2 sounded very natural after the "tubed" sound we experienced with the XA25. The soundstage was a bit narrower and the separation felt behind the XA25. Then we put on a CD with Sonny Rollins' Where Are You (The Bridge) and... OMG.... the natural flavour of the SIT-2 that I found a bit purist and low key after the XA25, gave me the most live-experience of a recorded musical performance ever! Enjoying with closed eyes and with the XA25 I had the feeling I was listening to vinyl and not CD on a very very nice tube amped hifi system. Or like Mr. Rollins and his band would perfom in one of the best clubs live. With the SIT-2.... Sonny himself came into my room just for a visit. Fully live, uncomplicated, personal, direct connection between the artist and the listener through the most natural representation of music.
Last the FW F7. Honestly a very nice amp but the XA25 "stole the show". The F7 is much closer to the XA25 than to the SIT-2 and sounds like a first incarnation or pilot of the XA25. Everything is there, SET like sound, soundstage, etc. but this everything is simply MUCH better with the XA25.
So SIT-2 or XA25? Easy answer: both
XA25 for most cases especially for big bands, wide stages. SIT-2 for solo performances or choir music. If I had to choose I would take take the XA25 as it is the better and more powerful amp. However, when the SIT-2 shines... then it produces something such beautiful and unique that I don't want to forget and give up on this something. An amp which delivers the best of both world could be the ultimative solution for me personally. Maybe the SIT-3?
I've just ordered a custom Omega Super Alnico 6 XRS (intend to use with BluDave direct) and a First WATT SIT-3. As soon as they arrive I re-audit the SIT-2, SIT-3 and the XA25 with these speakers and will sadly have to make a decision