Flexible phono preamplifier for MM and MC cartridges
The Thorens MM 008 is a high-quality phono preamplifier for vinyl lovers who want to connect their turntable to modern amplifiers, receivers or active loudspeakers without an integrated phono input. The compact phono preamplifier supports both MM (Moving Magnet) and MC (Moving Coil) cartridges and impresses with precise RIAA equalization, flexible adjustment options and high-quality workmanship with an elegant brushed aluminum front panel.
Individual MC adjustment for optimal sound
Particularly noteworthy is the individual adaptability to different MC cartridges. While many phono preamplifiers only switch between MM and MC, the MM 008 offers a significantly more flexible solution: Using the adapter resistors located on the rear and included in the scope of delivery, the MC input impedance can be easily adjusted to different cartridges. In addition to classic MM operation, a total of three different MC adjustment levels are available. This well thought-out plug-and-play concept combines simple handling with audiophile precision.
Precise RIAA equalization and audiophile amplification
The high-quality phono preamplifier operates with precise RIAA equalization of ±0.3 dB in the range from 20 Hz to 20 kHz, thus ensuring exact reproduction of the vinyl signal in accordance with the record standard. The amplification is 40 dB in MM mode and 60 dB in MC operation, which allows both classic MM systems and quiet low-output MC cartridges to be operated optimally.
In MM mode, the MM 008 operates with a fixed input impedance of 47 kOhm + 220 pF, while in MC mode a basic configuration of 47 kOhm + 1 nF is used, which can be adjusted via the resistor plugs. This allows the preamplifier to be optimally matched to different sound characteristics and electrical requirements of modern cartridges.
High-quality technology for detailed vinyl playback
Thanks to high-quality circuit technology, the MM 008 achieves excellent technical values: A signal-to-noise ratio of over 86 dB in MM mode, very low distortions of less than 0.013% THD+N, a linear frequency response up to 20 kHz with ±0.3 dB, and an extended frequency range up to 50 kHz (-3 dB) ensure detailed, dynamic, and low-noise playback.
Noble aluminum housing and easy integration
The low-resonance metal housing with a brushed aluminum front panel protects the sensitive electronics from external influences and underlines the high quality standard of Thorens. Power is supplied via an external 24-volt plug-in power supply, keeping disturbing mains components away from the sensitive audio circuit. Gold-plated RCA connectors and the separate ground connection ensure simple and clean integration into high-quality hi-fi systems.
Thorens MM 008 – compact phono preamplifier with high flexibility
With its combination of MM/MC compatibility, flexible load adjustment, precise equalization and easy operation, the Thorens MM 008 is an ideal phono preamplifier for ambitious vinyl fans who value top analog sound and high adaptability.
Technical data
| Feature | Data |
|---|---|
| Product Type | Phono Preamplifier / Phono Stage |
| Compatibility | MM / MC Cartridges (switchable) |
| RIAA Equalization | ± 0.3 dB (20 Hz – 20 kHz) |
| Gain | 40 dB (MM) / 60 dB (MC) |
| Input Impedance MM | 47 kOhm + 220 pF (fixed) |
| Input Impedance MC | 47 kOhm + 1 nF (adjustable via resistor plugs) |
| MC Adjustment | Up to 3 different MC stages via included adjustment resistors |
| Input Sensitivity MM | 3.29 mV RMS at -10 dBV output voltage (316 mV RMS) |
| Input Sensitivity MC | 0.325 mV RMS at -10 dBV output voltage (316 mV RMS) |
| Max. Output Voltage | 482 mV RMS at 5 mV RMS input voltage (1 kHz) |
| Output Impedance | 47 Ohm |
| THD+N | < 0.013 % (MM) / < 0.055 % (MC) |
| Frequency Response Linear | 20 Hz – 20 kHz ± 0.3 dB |
| Frequency Response (-3 dB) | 10 Hz – 50 kHz |
| Signal-to-Noise Ratio | > 86 dB (MM) / > 72 dB (MC) |
| Crosstalk | ≥ 40 dB |
| Inputs | 2 RCA pair (L/R), 1 RCA pair MC impedance adjustment |
| Outputs | 1 RCA pair (L/R) |
| Power Supply | External power adapter 24 V DC |
| Power Consumption | 3.4 W / 15 mA |
| Housing | Metal housing with brushed aluminum front panel |
| Dimensions (W x H x D) | 150 x 50 x 117 mm |
| Weight | 0.5 kg |
| Color | Silver |