A reference phono preamplifier designed to preserve the integrity of vinyl playback
Grimm components are typically ordered through Fern & Roby as part of a broader system conversation. Current lead times vary by product and configuration, and may extend several weeks or longer. We encourage clients to contact us before purchase to discuss system matching, availability, and fulfillment timing.
The Grimm Audio PW1 is a reference-level phono preamplifier for both moving magnet and moving coil cartridges.
Phono stages operate at the most sensitive point in an audio system, amplifying signals that are often measured in microvolts. The PW1 is designed to handle that task with exceptional control, minimizing noise and preserving the integrity of the signal from the very beginning. Designed by Grimm co-founder Peter van Willenswaard, this component reflects a long-standing focus on signal integrity, simplicity, and musical coherence.
The PW1 is available through Fern & Roby.
As an authorized Grimm Audio dealer, we recommend the PW1 in systems where the turntable and cartridge are already strong, but the phono stage is limiting overall performance.
What the PW1 does in a system
The PW1 sits between your turntable and the rest of your system, performing two essential functions:
In doing so, it defines the quality of everything that follows.
In most systems, it replaces a built-in phono stage in an integrated amplifier, and a lower-performance standalone phono preamp.
Because of the extremely low signal levels involved, improvements at this stage are often more significant than changes made further downstream.
Engineering approach
Phono amplification is one of the most demanding tasks in audio.
Signals from a moving coil cartridge can be as low as a few hundred nanovolts, requiring massive amplification without introducing noise or distortion. The PW1 approaches this with a deliberately minimal circuit design, reducing the number of components in the signal path and optimizing how those components interact. The result is a phono stage that prioritizes signal integrity, stability, and quiet operation—allowing more of the original recording to come through.
Low-noise architecture
The PW1 is designed to minimize noise at the earliest stage of amplification, where even small amounts of interference can obscure low-level detail.
This results in a quieter background, improved resolution, and greater clarity in complex passages.
Integrated linear power supply
The PW1 includes a fully integrated linear power supply, carefully shielded within the chassis.
By keeping the power supply internal and tightly controlled, Grimm reduces external noise and grounding issues that can affect phono-level signals—without relying on outboard components.
Flexible gain and loading
The PW1 provides adjustable gain and loading, allowing precise matching to a wide range of cartridges.
Proper matching at this stage is critical—ensuring the cartridge operates within its optimal range and avoiding noise, distortion, or tonal imbalance.
Who the PW1 is for
Systems built around a serious turntable and cartridge
Listeners using moving coil (MC) or high-quality moving magnet (MM) cartridges
Those looking to improve vinyl playback without changing their turntable
Systems where low noise and resolution are critical
Our perspective
Phono stages are often underestimated. Because they sit so early in the signal chain, they tend to define the overall character and clarity of vinyl playback more than many downstream components.
The PW1 stands out not because it adds character, but because it reduces noise and interference at a very early stage—resulting in a quieter background, more stable imaging, and a clearer sense of timing and structure.
Listening with the PW1
What stands out is a sense of ease and openness.
Music feels less constrained, with greater space, more natural timing, and a clearer sense of structure. The presentation remains composed and unforced, even in complex passages.
It’s less about dramatic changes, and more about removing a layer between you and the recording.
Why we chose to carry the Grimm Audio PW1
The PW1 stood out to us for:
Its focus on low-noise performance and signal integrity
A minimal circuit design that avoids unnecessary complexity
The ability to handle both MM and MC cartridges with precision
Long-term listenability without fatigue
It’s a component that allows a system to reveal more of what’s already there.
Full PW1 specifications are available on the Grimm Audio website.
Thinking about the PW1 in your system?
We routinely help clients think through how the PW1 fits into hi-fi system where analog playback is the focus. If you’d like to discuss how it might fit into your system, Christopher works directly with clients to help them evaluate how the PW1 would integrate with their turntable, cartridge, and overall system.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the PW1 in stock at Fern & Roby?
Grimm Audio products are configured and ordered through Fern & Roby based on system requirements and current availability. Lead times vary by product and configuration and may extend several weeks or longer. We encourage clients to contact us before purchase to discuss timing, setup, and system matching.
Does the PW1 support both MM and MC cartridges?
Yes.. The PW1 supports both moving magnet and moving coil cartridges, with adjustable gain and loading.
Do the PW1 require an external power supply?
No. It includes a fully integrated linear power supply designed for low-noise operation.
Where are gain and load settings adjusted?
They are located on the underside of the unit, allowing precise system matching.
What does a phono stage actually do?
It amplifies the extremely low-level signal from your cartridge and applies RIAA equalization before sending it to the rest of your system.
A reference phono preamplifier designed to preserve the integrity of vinyl playback
Grimm components are typically ordered through Fern & Roby as part of a broader system conversation. Current lead times vary by product and configuration, and may extend several weeks or longer. We encourage clients to contact us before purchase to discuss system matching, availability, and fulfillment timing.
The Grimm Audio PW1 is a reference-level phono preamplifier for both moving magnet and moving coil cartridges.
Phono stages operate at the most sensitive point in an audio system, amplifying signals that are often measured in microvolts. The PW1 is designed to handle that task with exceptional control, minimizing noise and preserving the integrity of the signal from the very beginning. Designed by Grimm co-founder Peter van Willenswaard, this component reflects a long-standing focus on signal integrity, simplicity, and musical coherence.
The PW1 is available through Fern & Roby.
As an authorized Grimm Audio dealer, we recommend the PW1 in systems where the turntable and cartridge are already strong, but the phono stage is limiting overall performance.
What the PW1 does in a system
The PW1 sits between your turntable and the rest of your system, performing two essential functions:
In doing so, it defines the quality of everything that follows.
In most systems, it replaces a built-in phono stage in an integrated amplifier, and a lower-performance standalone phono preamp.
Because of the extremely low signal levels involved, improvements at this stage are often more significant than changes made further downstream.
Engineering approach
Phono amplification is one of the most demanding tasks in audio.
Signals from a moving coil cartridge can be as low as a few hundred nanovolts, requiring massive amplification without introducing noise or distortion. The PW1 approaches this with a deliberately minimal circuit design, reducing the number of components in the signal path and optimizing how those components interact. The result is a phono stage that prioritizes signal integrity, stability, and quiet operation—allowing more of the original recording to come through.
Low-noise architecture
The PW1 is designed to minimize noise at the earliest stage of amplification, where even small amounts of interference can obscure low-level detail.
This results in a quieter background, improved resolution, and greater clarity in complex passages.
Integrated linear power supply
The PW1 includes a fully integrated linear power supply, carefully shielded within the chassis.
By keeping the power supply internal and tightly controlled, Grimm reduces external noise and grounding issues that can affect phono-level signals—without relying on outboard components.
Flexible gain and loading
The PW1 provides adjustable gain and loading, allowing precise matching to a wide range of cartridges.
Proper matching at this stage is critical—ensuring the cartridge operates within its optimal range and avoiding noise, distortion, or tonal imbalance.
Who the PW1 is for
Systems built around a serious turntable and cartridge
Listeners using moving coil (MC) or high-quality moving magnet (MM) cartridges
Those looking to improve vinyl playback without changing their turntable
Systems where low noise and resolution are critical
Our perspective
Phono stages are often underestimated. Because they sit so early in the signal chain, they tend to define the overall character and clarity of vinyl playback more than many downstream components.
The PW1 stands out not because it adds character, but because it reduces noise and interference at a very early stage—resulting in a quieter background, more stable imaging, and a clearer sense of timing and structure.
Listening with the PW1
What stands out is a sense of ease and openness.
Music feels less constrained, with greater space, more natural timing, and a clearer sense of structure. The presentation remains composed and unforced, even in complex passages.
It’s less about dramatic changes, and more about removing a layer between you and the recording.
Why we chose to carry the Grimm Audio PW1
The PW1 stood out to us for:
Its focus on low-noise performance and signal integrity
A minimal circuit design that avoids unnecessary complexity
The ability to handle both MM and MC cartridges with precision
Long-term listenability without fatigue
It’s a component that allows a system to reveal more of what’s already there.
Full PW1 specifications are available on the Grimm Audio website.
Thinking about the PW1 in your system?
We routinely help clients think through how the PW1 fits into hi-fi system where analog playback is the focus. If you’d like to discuss how it might fit into your system, Christopher works directly with clients to help them evaluate how the PW1 would integrate with their turntable, cartridge, and overall system.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the PW1 in stock at Fern & Roby?
Grimm Audio products are configured and ordered through Fern & Roby based on system requirements and current availability. Lead times vary by product and configuration and may extend several weeks or longer. We encourage clients to contact us before purchase to discuss timing, setup, and system matching.
Does the PW1 support both MM and MC cartridges?
Yes.. The PW1 supports both moving magnet and moving coil cartridges, with adjustable gain and loading.
Do the PW1 require an external power supply?
No. It includes a fully integrated linear power supply designed for low-noise operation.
Where are gain and load settings adjusted?
They are located on the underside of the unit, allowing precise system matching.
What does a phono stage actually do?
It amplifies the extremely low-level signal from your cartridge and applies RIAA equalization before sending it to the rest of your system.
Image 1 of 7
Image 2 of 7
Image 3 of 7
Image 4 of 7
Image 5 of 7
Image 6 of 7
Image 7 of 7
