Grimm Audio | PW1 Phono Preamplifier

$5,650.00

The Grimm Audio PW1 is a reference-level phono preamplifier built to reveal the full character of vinyl playback. Using a refined solid-state circuit and carefully implemented power supply, it delivers an open, dynamic presentation with the control and quiet background required for high-performance analog systems.

Designed by Grimm co-founder Peter van Willenswaard, this component reflects a long-standing focus on signal integrity, simplicity, and musical coherence.

Reference Phono Stage for MM and MC Cartridges

Flexibility is important in hi-fi. The Grimm PW1 supports both moving magnet (MM) and moving coil (MC) cartridges, with a wide range of gain and loading options for proper system matching.

It accommodates everything from high-output MM designs to low-output MC cartridges, maintaining stability and low noise across configurations. Fern & Roby is an authorized dealer for a number of cartridge manufacturers, we’re happy to discuss options based on your listening needs.

Minimalist Circuit, Maximum Musicality

Simpler can sometimes be better. The PW1 is built around a deliberately simple circuit, carefully optimized for signal integrity rather than complexity.

This approach preserves the structure and timing of the music, resulting in a presentation that is spacious, resolved, and rhythmically coherent—without the softness often associated with more colored designs.

Low-Noise Architecture

Analog lovers know phono signals require significant amplification, making noise control critical. The PW1 addresses this through thoughtful layout, component selection, and internal shielding.

The result is a low noise floor that allows fine detail and dynamic contrast to come through clearly, even with low-output cartridges.

Integrated Linear Power Supply

A custom linear power supply is built directly into the PW1, eliminating the need for an external unit.

This simplifies system setup while maintaining stable, low-noise power delivery—an essential part of consistent analog performance.

Flexible Gain and Loading

We like the PW1 because gain and loading can be adjusted to suit a wide range of cartridges, allowing for precise system matching.

These settings provide the flexibility to optimize both electrical performance and overall tonal balance.

Why Choose Grimm Audio

Grimm Audio applies the same principles to analog as it does to digital: reduce complexity, preserve timing, and maintain signal accuracy.

The PW1 perfectly reflects this approach; it’s a phono stage that prioritizes clarity, balance, and long-term listenability.

  • Contact us to discuss how the PW1 fits into your system.

  • Scroll this page to explore more features, technical data and reviews

  • Find full PW1 specs on the Grimm Audio website.

Why Buy from Fern & Roby

As an authorized Grimm Audio dealer, we help ensure the PW1 is properly matched to your turntable, cartridge, and system.

We can assist with:

  • Cartridge and phono stage pairing

  • Gain and loading configuration

  • System integration

  • Analog system optimization

The PW1 plays a critical role in vinyl playback, and we’re here to help you get the most from it.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Does the PW1 support both MM and MC cartridges?

    Yes. It is designed for both, with adjustable gain and loading.

  • Do I need an external power supply?

    No. The PW1 includes a built-in linear power supply.

  • Can it be adjusted for different cartridges?

    Yes. Settings can be configured to match a wide range of cartridges.

The Grimm Audio PW1 is a reference-level phono preamplifier built to reveal the full character of vinyl playback. Using a refined solid-state circuit and carefully implemented power supply, it delivers an open, dynamic presentation with the control and quiet background required for high-performance analog systems.

Designed by Grimm co-founder Peter van Willenswaard, this component reflects a long-standing focus on signal integrity, simplicity, and musical coherence.

Reference Phono Stage for MM and MC Cartridges

Flexibility is important in hi-fi. The Grimm PW1 supports both moving magnet (MM) and moving coil (MC) cartridges, with a wide range of gain and loading options for proper system matching.

It accommodates everything from high-output MM designs to low-output MC cartridges, maintaining stability and low noise across configurations. Fern & Roby is an authorized dealer for a number of cartridge manufacturers, we’re happy to discuss options based on your listening needs.

Minimalist Circuit, Maximum Musicality

Simpler can sometimes be better. The PW1 is built around a deliberately simple circuit, carefully optimized for signal integrity rather than complexity.

This approach preserves the structure and timing of the music, resulting in a presentation that is spacious, resolved, and rhythmically coherent—without the softness often associated with more colored designs.

Low-Noise Architecture

Analog lovers know phono signals require significant amplification, making noise control critical. The PW1 addresses this through thoughtful layout, component selection, and internal shielding.

The result is a low noise floor that allows fine detail and dynamic contrast to come through clearly, even with low-output cartridges.

Integrated Linear Power Supply

A custom linear power supply is built directly into the PW1, eliminating the need for an external unit.

This simplifies system setup while maintaining stable, low-noise power delivery—an essential part of consistent analog performance.

Flexible Gain and Loading

We like the PW1 because gain and loading can be adjusted to suit a wide range of cartridges, allowing for precise system matching.

These settings provide the flexibility to optimize both electrical performance and overall tonal balance.

Why Choose Grimm Audio

Grimm Audio applies the same principles to analog as it does to digital: reduce complexity, preserve timing, and maintain signal accuracy.

The PW1 perfectly reflects this approach; it’s a phono stage that prioritizes clarity, balance, and long-term listenability.

  • Contact us to discuss how the PW1 fits into your system.

  • Scroll this page to explore more features, technical data and reviews

  • Find full PW1 specs on the Grimm Audio website.

Why Buy from Fern & Roby

As an authorized Grimm Audio dealer, we help ensure the PW1 is properly matched to your turntable, cartridge, and system.

We can assist with:

  • Cartridge and phono stage pairing

  • Gain and loading configuration

  • System integration

  • Analog system optimization

The PW1 plays a critical role in vinyl playback, and we’re here to help you get the most from it.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Does the PW1 support both MM and MC cartridges?

    Yes. It is designed for both, with adjustable gain and loading.

  • Do I need an external power supply?

    No. The PW1 includes a built-in linear power supply.

  • Can it be adjusted for different cartridges?

    Yes. Settings can be configured to match a wide range of cartridges.

 

Main Features

Adjustable Gain and Loading

Extensive gain and load options allow precise matching to a wide range of cartridges.

MM and MC Compatibility

Supports both moving magnet and moving coil cartridges with dedicated inputs for each.

 

Integrated Linear Power Supply

An internal low-noise power supply eliminates the need for external units while preserving signal integrity.

Low-Noise Amplification

Carefully designed circuitry and shielding maintain a quiet background for high-resolution analog playback.

 

Precision Internal Construction

A copper-shielded interior and refined layout support consistent, long-term performance.

Balanced and Single-Ended Outputs

RCA and XLR outputs provide flexible integration with a wide range of systems.

 

Technical Data

    • Dedicated inputs for MM and MC cartridges

    • Input impedance and capacitance adjustable for cartridge matching

    • Designed to accommodate both high-output and low-output cartridges

    • RCA (singled-ended) outputs

    • XLR (balanced) outputs

    • Low output impedance for stable system integration

    • Adjustable gain for MM and MC cartridges

    • Additional gain options for low-output MC designs

    • Selectable resistive and capacitive loading

    • Settings accessible via underside of panel

    • Integrated low-noise linear power supply

    • Shielded transformer design to minimize interference

    • No external power supply required

 

Reviewers

  • “The Grimm PW1 is a phono stage I could happily live with for years. It doesn’t chase emotion, it delivers it through balance and authority.”

    Read the entire review.

  • “If this phono stage was priced at 15k I wouldn’t be shocked, but at under 6k, it’s one of the great analog bargains and deserves serious consideration if this is your financial playing field. I will miss the returned review sample, but I ordered one for myself and that says it all! Highly recommended!!!”

    Read the entire review.