Grimm Audio PW1 – minimalist phono preamplifier
20.12.2024 08:53 | ~2 minutes read
The Grimm Audio PW1 phono preamplifier stands out with its minimalist circuitry, aimed at preserving the integrity of vinyl playback. The PW1 minimizes the number of components in the signal path, allowing the music to flow with minimal interference. Each gain stage uses a single active component, while a carefully selected op-amp serves as a buffer to maintain signal quality. The “PW” stands for Phono Wizard, so the PW1 features a wide range of input adjustment options to suit the characteristics of the cartridge.
The Grimm Audio PW1 phono preamplifier uses FET field effect transistors due to their high input impedance and musical amplification characteristics. For the MC (moving coil) input, a specialized low-noise FET transistor was chosen, with noise levels of 0.7 nV/√Hz, resulting in a signal-to-noise ratio of ≥80 dB, which is excellent for vinyl. Grimm Audio admits that the PW1 exhibits higher harmonic distortion (<0.55%, mostly 2nd harmonic components) than some competitors, but this compromise avoids a "sterile" sound.
The Grimm Audio PW1 does not use an external power supply – it has a custom low-noise transformer from Amplimo “on board”. An aluminum chassis and copper sub-chassis further protect against electromagnetic interference.
The Grimm Audio PW1 phono preamplifier offers flexible settings for both moving magnet (MM) and moving coil (MC) cartridges. Gain options include an additional 10 dB for MM inputs and up to 77 dB for MC, allowing even ultra-low output cartridges to be used. Input impedance:
MM resistive: 47 kΩ;
MM capacitive: 47 pF, plus optional 47 pF, 100 pF, and/or 220 pF in parallel;
MC resistive: 47 kΩ, plus optional 33 Ω, 100 Ω, 330 Ω and/or 1 kΩ in parallel;
MC capacitive: 330 pF, plus optional 330 pF and/or 680 pF in parallel.
A sliding panel on the bottom of the enclosure provides access to detailed loading and gain settings, allowing audiophiles to fine-tune playback to match cartridge specifications. The capacitive and resistive load adjustments are suitable for both MM and MC cartridges. The Grimm Audio PW1 phono preamplifier is now available in Europe with a suggested retail price of €4,800.
Specifications
This product is in the Hi-Fi and High End Electronics and Acoustics database
Phonostages — Grimm Audio PW1
Model name
PW1
Inputs (balanced)
N/A
Inputs (single-ended)
2
MC current-sensing input impedance (Ω)
N/A
MM/MC voltage input impedance (Ω)
47000
Output impedance (Ω)
N/A
Gain (dB)
N/A
Playback EQ curves accuracy (dB)
N/A
Frequency response low +/- 3dB (Hz)
N/A
Frequency response high +/- 3dB (Hz)
N/A
Total Harmonic Distortion + Noise (%)
N/A
Dimensions (mm)
100 x 250 x 100
Weight (kg)
3.3
Official link
More content
Harman buys three brands at once - Bowers & Wilkins, Marantz and Denon
According to news, Masimo Corporation, the owner of the audiophile brands B&W (Bowers & Wilkins), Denon and Marantz, has signed an agreement to sell these brands to Harman International - the deal is currently in the process of receiving regulatory approvals.
Bang & Olufsen Beosound A1 3rd Gen – the Third Generation of Portable Speaker
Bang & Olufsen has introduced the third generation of its Beosound A1 portable wireless loudspeaker. The new product has retained the 360-degree sound pattern and aluminum body. The spectacular design, which is offered in three finishes: natural aluminum, honey tone and eucalyptus green, literally attracts the eye.
Burmester X Mastercut Presents PURE SOUND Master Recordings
Burmester, the famous German manufacturer of high-end equipment, begins releasing LPs. The PURE SOUND Master Recordings series opens with the 1964 jazz album Oscar Peterson Trio “We Get Requests”, the record will be released in a limited edition of 33 copies and will be sold for 777 euros.
Soulution 787 – the First Vinyl Turntable from a Famous Brand
Soulution has introduced the ultimate vinyl player Soulution 787. The model features linear tracking system with a moving platter and a minimal excursion pivoted tonearm.. Recall that such designs imply the highest tracking accuracy, but have hardly been used until now due to their extreme complexity and high cost (Nakamichi TX-1000 Computing Turntable in 1983-1987 with Absolute Centre Search System offered offered something a little similar - but in that case the tonearm moved, and the platter provided the necessary center shift, corresponding to a specific LP).
Monitor Audio Vestra – Affordable Subwoofers with Excellent Bass
The well-known acoustics manufacturer, Monitor Audio, has released three new active subwoofers of the Monitor Audio Vestra series - W10, W12 and W15. All of them are equipped with proprietary speakers with aluminum-magnesium alloy diffusers with a ceramic C-CAM coating with a long-stroke suspension and can develop impressive sound pressure.
