Abstract: A common-base, source-driven differential amplifier achieves both high speed operation and low noise operation by providing an input stage including a pair of source follower JFETs that drive emitters of a pair of NPN input transistors having their bases connected together and to a bias circuit. The collectors of the NPN transistors each are connected to a corresponding load device and to a corresponding input of an output amplifier stage. The bias circuit includes a current source and a pair of diode-connected NPN transistors having their bases and collectors connected to the current source and to the bases of the input transistors. The emitters of the diode-connected NPN transistors are connected to sources of a second pair of source follower JFETs, the gates of which are connected to the input terminals.