Thorens MM-002 – Phono Preamp (MM)

The Thorens MM-002 is a compact phono preamp for moving-magnet (MM) cartridges. It raises your turntable's quiet signal up to line level — the simplest solution when your amplifier has no phono input.

No frills, no fiddling with settings: plug in, switch on, music. For getting started with good vinyl sound, the MM-002 is exactly the uncomplicated building block that's often missing.

Why the MM-002?

Because it does one thing right: amplifying MM cartridges cleanly with precise RIAA equalization. The fixed 47 kOhm input impedance is the standard value that nearly all MM cartridges are designed for — you don't have to set anything, it just fits. RCA in, RCA out, done.

What you get

Honest, unfussy phono sound from a small housing that fits easily behind or next to your system. Exactly the right thing for connecting a turntable without its own phono stage to a modern amplifier or active speakers.

Who is the MM-002 for?

For beginners and anyone with an MM cartridge looking for a simple, reliable phono stage — no settings, no extra cost for features they don't need.

Honestly: Anyone running an MC cartridge or wanting to digitize records is better served by the MM 008 or MM 008 ADC. But for pure MM, the MM-002 is the lean, affordable choice.

Our verdict

The MM-002 is the pragmatic entry-level phono stage: small, affordable, reliable. At HD Zürisee in Wädenswil, we tell you honestly whether it suits your cartridge — or whether a more flexible stage makes more sense.

Technical specifications

• Type: phono preamp for MM cartridges
• Input impedance: 47 kOhm (fixed, MM standard)
• Equalization: RIAA
• Connections: RCA input and RCA output, grounding connection
• Power supply: external power supply
• Housing: compact metal housing
• Color: Black
• Dimensions (W × H × D) and weight: on request

Frequently asked questions

Which cartridges is the MM-002 intended for?

For moving-magnet (MM) cartridges. The fixed input impedance of 47 kOhm matches the standard that nearly all MM cartridges are designed for. For moving-coil (MC) cartridges, you instead need an MM/MC stage like the MM 008.

Do I need to adjust anything on the MM-002?

No. The MM-002 is deliberately kept simple: fixed 47 kOhm input, RIAA equalization, RCA in and out. You connect it between turntable and amplifier — nothing more is needed.

Do I even need a phono stage?

Only if your amplifier has no phono input and your turntable has no built-in preamp. That's exactly when the MM-002 brings the weak signal up to the right level. If in doubt, we'll tell you what fits your system.

Why buy the MM-002 at HD Zürisee?

Because we give you honest advice on whether the MM-002 is the right choice or whether a more flexible stage makes more sense — and help you with connecting and setting it up. Personal and without sales pressure, direct from Wädenswil.

Pairs well with

You'll find the right turntable under turntables, the right cartridge among cartridges. More choice is shown in the phono preamp collection; the entire Thorens range is in the Thorens collection.