The F6 is most definitely not typical of modern solid state amps. The transformer strongly contributes to the character of it's sound. The most "normal" of the First Watt line are the Aleph J and the F5. No transformers. No current sources. No positive feedback. Just very simple topology in single ended and push-pull. If you're looking for a tube-like sound you want a SIT 1 or SIT 2. The SITs are the only devices that resemble the gain characteristics of a triode.
Personally I think the F5 is the pinnacle of technically proficient solid state sound in the FW line; some would say to a fault. Compared to the F6, the F5 actually has a useful damping factor, has half the noise, about 10% of the distortion, and about 10 times the bandwidth. It's greatest fault is it's unforgiving nature. The F7 is Nelson's attempt to tame the F5's brutality. I REALLY like my F5.
Personally I think the F5 is the pinnacle of technically proficient solid state sound in the FW line; some would say to a fault. Compared to the F6, the F5 actually has a useful damping factor, has half the noise, about 10% of the distortion, and about 10 times the bandwidth. It's greatest fault is it's unforgiving nature. The F7 is Nelson's attempt to tame the F5's brutality. I REALLY like my F5.