Grimm PW-1
Best phono preamp for audiophiles seeking a spacious, detailed vinyl sound.
Experience the enduring magic of vinyl with the Grimm PW-1 phono preamplifier. Designed with a lifetime of refinement, its elegantly minimalistic circuit is optimized for the electric environment of active components. This approach delivers Peter van Willenswaard's signature sound: spacious, detailed, and rhythmically addictive. The PW-1 supports both MM and MC cartridges, offering versatile connectivity with RCA and XLR outputs. Its internal, superiorly shielded power supply ensures a clean signal path, free from external power needs, all housed within a robust, artful cabinet.
$5800.00
Owner Satisfaction
4.8
/ 5
Category Rank
8
/ 475
#8 in Phono Preamps
Price vs Category Average
-16%
Below average
Cartridge Support
Moving Coil (MC) and Moving Magnet (MM)
/ Moving Coil (MC) and Moving Magnet (MM)
Who it's for
- Audiophiles seeking absolute silence in their high-fidelity signal chain
- System builders managing complex setups prone to ground loop interference
- Professional installers requiring long-term reliability and premium build quality
Who should skip it
- Apartment dwellers with limited rack space or small listening rooms
- Budget-conscious listeners prioritizing value over high-end power conditioning
- Owners of non-Grimm systems seeking maximum design synergy
Performance breakdown
Sonic Transparency
Minimalist circuitry preserves the raw, authentic character of your vinyl collection.
Noise Floor
Copper shielding and internal power supply eliminate virtually all background interference.
Cartridge Versatility
Seamlessly handles both MM and MC cartridges for diverse turntable setups.
Build Integrity
Robust construction ensures long-term reliability and protection against external vibrations.
Connectivity Options
Balanced XLR and RCA outputs provide flexible integration into high-end systems.
Adjustment Accessibility
Under-chassis controls prioritize clean aesthetics over frequent, easy user adjustments.
Key Specs
Cartridge Support
Moving Coil (MC) and Moving Magnet (MM)
Outputs
RCA and XLR connectors
Power Supply
Internal silent linear power supply
Dimensions
100 x 100 x 250mm (WxHxD)
Interior Shielding
Copper shielded
Warranty
5 year limited warranty
Circuitry Type
Solid State
Output Connection Types
RCA, XLR Balanced
Features
- Minimalistic electronic design for optimal performance
- Supports both MC and MM cartridge inputs
- Provides versatile RCA and XLR outputs
- Internal silent linear power supply
- Copper shielded interior for noise reduction
- Delivers spacious, detailed, and open sound
- Gain and load settings accessible underneath
- Backed by a 5-year limited warranty
What customers say
The Grimm PW-1 earns high praise as a reference-grade digital audio component. Users consistently highlight its exceptional sonic performance, noting profound improvements in system timing, clarity, and musicality. The sound signature is described as transparent and highly resolving, revealing fine details without adding coloration. Its role as a master clock using proprietary technology is a key differentiator for achieving absolute synchronization in complex digital setups. Build quality is universally regarded as robust and professional. While the premium price positions it outside the mainstream, those prioritizing ultimate accuracy find the investment worthwhile for its top tier digital infrastructure.
Know before you buy
Yes, the PW-1 is designed to support both MM and MC cartridges, making it compatible with a wide range of turntables and setups.
For a clean aesthetic, the gain and load settings are conveniently located on the underside of the unit, allowing you to adjust them without cluttering the front panel.
No, the unit features an internal, silent linear power supply. This design keeps your setup tidy and ensures the signal path remains free from external power interference.
Yes, the PW-1 offers both RCA and XLR outputs, providing the flexibility to connect to a variety of amplifiers or active speakers.
The interior is copper-shielded to protect the signal from electromagnetic interference. This, combined with the minimalistic circuit design, helps maintain a spacious, detailed, and quiet sound signature.
The Grimm PW-1 is backed by a 5-year limited warranty, reflecting the manufacturer's confidence in the build quality and longevity of the device.
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Ask Hayley anything about this product before you decide.
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$5800