Sound Design Distribution has introduced the Grimm Audio PW1 MC/MM phono preamplifier to UK audiophiles. It is the ideal companion for the Grimm MU2 streamer/DAC/pre, the Grimm LS1 active loudspeaker, or any other audio system of choice, says the manufacturer.
Designed by Grimm Audio’s co-founder Peter van Willenswaard and described by the company as a ‘Phono Wizard’, the solid state PW1 follows a minimalist design path based on the principle that ‘what’s not in it, cannot stand in the way’.
Accordingly, Grimm Audio has implemented single low-noise FET amplification stages to bring the low voltage of an MC element to MM level, to amplify the vulnerable input signal in the MM phono section sufficiently to allow the RIAA correction to do its job flawlessly, to convey the corrected signal flawlessly after RIAA and to serve as a buffer between the phono circuit and downstream equipment, all within a zero-feedback environment.
Grimm’s ideal phono topology required the careful choice and proprietary testing of passive and active components, precisely designed power supplies for each amplifier stage – fine-tuned by ear – and precisely arranged PCB layouts to deliver high signal-to-noise ratios and the impression of ‘endless headroom’.
In addition, Grimm Audio has included a custom-designed ‘silent’ (low magnetic field) power supply transformer within the PW1’s aluminium enclosure and copper sub-chassis to provide higher shielding to the mains input and main power supply (most competitors require a separate external power supply box to prevent hum and other interference on the sensitive MC and MM inputs).
Exploiting the PW1’s electronic headroom for dedicated MM and MC inputs, Grimm Audio offers a peerless choice of selectable load and gain settings, accessed via a sliding panel, to accommodate the widest range of cartridges. The manual includes a table of standard settings for MC, high-output MC and MM cartridges, but versatility is available to fine-tuners.
The Grimm Audio PW1 MC/MM Phono Preamplifier is available from June 2025 for a typical retail price (inc VAT) of £4,695.