One of the best-performing streamers we’ve ever had here in the shop. Sure, it’s pricey, so you hope for something—but you don’t know exactly what that should be. Now it’s clear; we know. Above all, an incredible amount gets filtered out: detail, power, speed, depth....there are others that can do that, thankfully... but this device eliminates noise, distortion, and harshness—they’re barely there, if at all—so everything that’s left really pops! Very tangible, rounded, real. If you never go to unamplified concerts, stop by that street musician sometime, hoping he or she is any good, and listen to that instrument—that’s “real-life analog”; that’s what we always hope for here and sometimes get just a little bit of. This streamer has brought us one step closer to that goal.
Retail price: 12,990.00
The Grimm Audio MU1 is a music streamer and digital music source from Grimm Audio that functions as both a Roon Core and a Roon Endpoint, designed to play digital files over your home network. The MU1 processes digital inputs such as AES3, S/PDIF, and USB, and outputs signals via AES/EBU and LS1 outputs, among others.
This streamer/audio server delivers an impressive stereo image thanks to precise oversampling and an internal FPGA processor, which minimizes jitter. The detail in the sound is preserved, even with high-resolution files, while the dynamics remain clear and controlled. The Grimm Audio MU1 supports streaming services such as Tidal and Qobuz and operates via UPnP connections; the latest firmware update improves filters and further optimizes integration with network sources.
Using the main knob and display makes switching sources, adjusting the volume, and navigating menus more intuitive. The Grimm Audio MU1 combines the functions of a streamer, server, and digital controller without the need for separate components. If you’re looking for a high-end source for detailed music nights or quiet listening moments, you’ll definitely want to give this a listen and compare it to others. Feel free to schedule a listening session or let’s discuss trade-in options together—that way, you can experience the added value of the Grimm Audio MU1 for yourself.
General: Maximum ambient temperature: 50 °C Fuse rating: 200 mA fast Weight: 4.5 kg Dimensions (width × depth × height): 355 × 295 × 100 mm Packaged dimensions: 536 × 392 × 219 mm
Power Supply: Mains voltage: 90–240 V AC ±10%, 50/60 Hz Power factor: > 0.98 Normal power consumption: 17 W Maximum power: 50 W
Clock & synchronization: Internal jitter: 10 Hz. Slave mode for digital sources with 44.1 kHz and 48 kHz base frequencies at 1FS, 2FS, and 4FS ±50 ppm. Mute time: 80 ms when changing the clock base frequency
Digital Signal Processing: Upsampling of PCM files (1FS and 2FS) to 4FS or 2FS using a “Pure Nyquist” decimation filter; Downsampling of DSD formats (DSD64, DSD128, DSD256) and DXD to 4FS or 2FS using a “Pure Nyquist” decimation filter Digital input-to-digital output latency: 11 ms at 48 kHz
Digital connectivity: Digital inputs: 1 × AES/EBU, 1 × coaxial S/PDIF, 1 × Toslink optical Digital outputs: 2 × AES/EBU, 1 × S/PDIF, 1 × connection for LS1 (RJ45) USB port(s): at least 1 × USB 2.0 (for storage, etc.) Network: Gigabit Ethernet (1000 Mb/s)
Computing & Storage: Processor: Intel i3, > 2.4 GHz, 4 cores / 4 threads with Hyper-threading RAM: 8 GB DDR4 RAM Operating system on internal SSD Optional additional internal SSD for music data
Display & Controls: Screen type: full-color TFT LCD Screen size: 3.5-inch diagonal Resolution: 480 × 320 pixels
Other features: Digital volume control (FPGA) on Digital 1/2 outputs: 0 dB to –63 dB in 1 dB steps Supported sample rates/formats: all common formats, including PCM up to high-res, DXD, and DSD formats Supported streaming protocols: Integrated Roon Server, Roon Ready endpoint, UPnP renderer, Tidal, Qobuz, Tidal Connect Number of digital output channels: 6 for surround sound capability
The Grimm Audio MU1 was designed by Dutch engineer Guido Tent and is known for its precision and innovative technology. The design philosophy focuses on delivering exceptional audio quality, with the MU1 serving as a high-end music streamer. It utilizes high-quality materials and components, often sourced from Europe. The enclosure is subtle and minimalist, crafted from solid materials that minimize resonance. The internal wiring and layout are carefully planned for optimal signal integrity. Manufacturing methods prioritize precision and durability, resulting in a product that contributes to a superior audio experience.
Grimm Audio was founded in 2004 in the Netherlands by audio engineers Eelco Grimm, Guido Tent, Bruno Putzeys, and Peter van Willenswaard. The founders combined their expertise in electronics, acoustics, and psychoacoustics. The brand focuses on developing products that reproduce sound with precision. Through collaboration with industry professionals, Grimm Audio strives to develop technologies that optimize the accuracy of the sound image. Grimm Audio’s product portfolio includes products used daily by audio engineers and music enthusiasts. Grimm Audio’s approach is characterized by a focus on scientific principles and a pragmatic approach to product development. The development team values both technical and aesthetic aspects in their designs. This approach has led to the creation of products recognized for their precision in sound reproduction. The brand’s goal is to provide users with products that are faithful to the source recording.
