An output circuit amplifier has first and second stage amplifying transistors with an impedance circuit connected between the base of the first stage transistor and the collector-emitter circuit of the second stage transistor to draw current from the first stage transistor base, thereby keeping both transistors out of saturation. The impedance circuit establishes a voltage drop between the two transistors such that large output voltage swings are enabled at an output terminal connected to the second stage transistor. The collector-emitter circuit of the first stage transistor is connected directly to a positive voltage bus to avoid further saturation problems.