The Thorens MC 1600 phono preamplifier embodies the full expertise of the German manufacturer, combining advanced engineering and refined craftsmanship in the service of musical performance.
Design & build quality
The Thorens MC 1600 is housed in a solid brushed aluminum chassis, delivering both elegance and remarkable structural rigidity. Despite its compact dimensions (300 × 200 × 301 mm), it weighs an impressive 5 kg, reflecting its robust internal construction.
The front panel features a status LED:
The illuminated Thorens logo can be customized via RGB switches located underneath the unit, allowing color selection between blue, green, turquoise, violet, red, yellow, or white, adding a subtle aesthetic personalization.
Technology & circuit design
The MC 1600 features a true dual-mono architecture with a fully balanced circuit design, ensuring optimal channel separation and signal purity. It provides both RCA and XLR inputs and outputs.
Its active RIAA equalization delivers outstanding technical performance:
Distortion below 0.005%
Frequency response from 10 Hz to 20 kHz
Accuracy within ±0.1 dB
Signal-to-noise ratio between 76 and 100 dBA (at 100 Ohms, depending on gain setting)
A selectable subsonic high-pass filter at 15 Hz can be adjusted to 6 dB or 12 dB per octave.
The power supply is fully integrated and connects via a standard IEC13 socket, allowing easy cable upgrades if desired.
Precision adjustments
The Thorens MC 1600 is compatible with both Moving Coil (MC) and Moving Magnet (MM) cartridges. Fine adjustments are accessible via micro-switches located underneath the unit.
Gain Adjustment
Selectable from +32 dB to +68 dB in nine steps of approximately 4 dB.
MC Cartridge Settings
MM Cartridge Settings
These extensive settings ensure precise matching with virtually any cartridge on the market, especially low-output MC models.
Listening experience
The Thorens MC 1600 instantly reveals the full harmonic richness and depth of vinyl playback.
It stands out for its exceptional silence and transparency, combined with a superbly wide and stable stereo soundstage. The outstanding channel separation, largely due to the dual-mono configuration, creates an immersive and highly dimensional listening experience.
The presentation is fluid, refined and delicate, yet also dynamic and engaging. It conveys musical emotion with precision and authority while maintaining remarkable control and balance.
The MC 1600 proves to be a true high-performance and highly musical phono stage, capable of unlocking the full potential of high-end MC cartridges.
Highly recommended.
FranckCompatibility: MM and MC
Analog Audio Inputs: RCA, XLR
Analog Audio Outputs: RCA, XLR
Design: Dual mono, fully symmetrical
Adjustable gain: from +34 dB to +66 dB in nine steps (~4 dB per step)
Adjustable input impedance: From 20 to 1260 ohms (20 ohm increments)
MM input impedance: 47 kOhm
Adjustable input capacitance: From 50 pF to 600 pF (50 pF increments)
Distortion: < 0.005%
Frequency response: 10 Hz – 20 kHz, ±0.1 dB
Signal-to-noise ratio: 76 – 100 dBA (depending on gain)
Maximum output voltage: 10 V RMS
Maximum output current: 100 mA
Output impedance: 50 ohms (RCA), 110 ohms (XLR)
Dimensions: 300 × 200 × 301 mm
Weight: 5 kg
