Thorens MM 008 ADC Phonostage

Thorens MM-008 ADC — Phono Stage and Digital Gateway in One

The MM-008 ADC is Thorens' practical, no-nonsense phono preamplifier for listeners who want solid analog performance from both MM and MC cartridges — plus the ability to digitize their vinyl collection directly to a computer. It's the most versatile entry point in the Thorens phono stage lineup, and it punches well above its compact size and price.

MM and MC, Both Covered The MM-008 is the obvious choice when the freedom to use either cartridge type is important. The MM input carries the standard 47k ohm load at 200 pF capacitance. The MC input accommodates cartridges via a set of plug-in loading adapters — a simple and elegant solution. Thorens supplies three pairs of plug-in adapters at 10, 100, and 1,000 ohms, covering virtually every mainstream MC cartridge on the market. MM/MC selection is handled by a rear-panel switch. Gain is 40 dB for MM and 60 dB for MC, with RIAA curve accuracy held to ±0.3 dB maximum.

Built-In ADC with USB Output The ADC version adds an integrated analog-to-digital converter with a USB output for direct connection to a Mac or PC. To get the most out of the MM-008 ADC's recording capabilities, Thorens recommends software capable of recording at 24-bit/96 kHz and saving lossless files such as FLAC or Apple Lossless. Both Windows and macOS are supported natively. It's a straightforward, high-quality path for archiving your record collection without a separate ADC box.

Design and Connections The MM-008 is housed in a compact brushed-aluminum enclosure, powered by an external wall-wart supply that keeps the chassis small and tidy. Two completely separate RCA inputs — one for MM, one for MC — allow the MM-008 to serve two turntables or two tonearms simultaneously, selectable via the rear switch. A ground post, RCA line outputs, and the USB digital output complete the rear panel. A blue LED on the front panel indicates power, and setup is intuitive enough to go from unboxing to playing music in minutes.

A subsonic filter is included. Solid copper conductors and a precise RIAA equalization circuit ensure clean signal transmission throughout.

The MM-008 ADC is the right tool for the vinyl listener who needs a reliable, flexible phono stage today — and wants the option to build a digital archive of their collection without buying separate gear to do it.