The US online ‘glossy’ Audio Key Reviews has the premiere PW1 phono stage review. Andre Marc enjoyed himself tremendously, stepping into a genuine time machine with his favorite vinyl. The PW1 received the “Gold Keynote Award” and is their new reference phono stage. Andre’s text is a great pleasure to read, so we encourage you to explore it all in the online AKR Magazine of March 2025. To get a taste of it, we copy his conclusions below.
“A summary of the overall performance and character of the Grimm PW1 is not easy, as it seems not to have a “sound”. However, the soundstage is wide and deep, with a sense of air and realism. It was detailed and open. Every micro and macro detail is revealed effortlessly, yet never harsh, unless the pressing has that encoded in the grooves. Other descriptors that come to mind, over the course of many listening sessions, are rhythmically addictive, and highly Involving, It doesn’t just reproduce sound, it draws you into the music. One of the most significant accomplishments of the PW1 is that it disappears into the system. Instead of making you aware that you’re listening to a ”highly sophisticated” phono stage. For those who have spent time comparing tube vs. solid-state phono stages, the PW1 brings the best of both worlds: the richness and texture of tubes, and the clarity and control of solid-state. The effortless musicality that vinyl folks live for is there in spades.
(…)
The Grimm Audio PW1 is a new reference for us in phono stages under $10,000. It simply checks every box imaginable. Its virtues are many, and its flaws are nonexistent to these ears. Superb transparency and spaciousness, and a perfect balance between tube-like warmth and solid-state clarity are it’s calling cards.
In addition, Grimm seems to have nailed their goal of low noise performance, even with the lowest-output MC cartridges. The minimalist design includes a power supply so quiet it doesn’t need an external chassis. For those looking for the ultimate phono stage, without spending a small fortune, one that reveals the full potential of their turntable and cartridge, the PW1 is a top tier contender. Grimm Audio has once again delivered a masterpiece, proving that whether in digital or analog, their mission remains the same. Creating audio equipment that makes you forget about technology and simply fall in love with the music seems a noble goal, but it is one that is not easy to achieve. This less-is-more approach is part of what makes the PW1 so appealing. Rather than brute force engineering, Grimm Audio seems to have opted for balance, and purity, a choice that pays off in the final analysis.”
“Grimm Audio has once again delivered a masterpiece” – Andre Marc, Audio Key Reviews
