The THÖRESS Full Function Preamplifier (FFPre) MKII is a masterwork of purist audio engineering, combining a reference-grade line stage and a state-of-the-art phono equalizer in a single, uncompromised chassis. Designed by Reinhard Thöress, this preamplifier is not simply a line stage with an add-on phono card; it is a holistic integration of two dedicated vacuum tube circuits operating in perfect harmony. The phono section features a purely active Moving Coil (MC) gain stage (no step-up transformers) with exceptional signal-to-noise performance, while the line stage utilizes a unique single-ended zero-feedback topology. With its vintage laboratory aesthetic and meticulous point-to-point hand construction, the FFPre MKII offers a sonic presentation of utmost refinement, dynamic realism, and textural density. Key Features: Integrated Reference Phono Stage: Features a ground-breaking, purely active MC phono section (65dB gain) with highly accurate passive RIAA de-emphasis, eliminating the need for external step-up transformers. Versatile Cartridge Loading: Includes three on-the-fly selectable phono inputs (P1, P2, P3) with individual load impedance settings (Standard: 100, 200, 500 Ohms) to perfectly match your specific cartridges. Minimalist Tube Topology: Employs a pure Single-Ended Zero-Feedback circuit throughout, utilizing 12J5GT and PC86 vacuum tubes for unmatched linearity and phase integrity. Optimized Line Inputs: Provides three line-level inputs with varying gain structures (High/Low) to seamlessly integrate both vintage analog sources and modern high-output digital DACs. Dual-Mono Volume Control: Features separate high-grade rotary potentiometers for each channel, allowing for precise volume adjustment and perfect channel balance without a balance knob. Handcrafted in Germany: Built with uncompromising attention to detail in Aachen, featuring air-wired point-to-point construction and in-house hand-wound mains transformers. A Phono Stage Without Equal The heart of the FFPre MKII is its extraordinary phono equalizer. Unlike many competitors that rely on passive step-up transformers for MC gain, THÖRESS employs a purely active tube circuit using PC86 and 12J5GT tubes. This approach avoids the bandwidth limitations and phase shifts often associated with transformers, resulting in a sound that is incredibly open, fast, and transparent. The RIAA de-emphasis is implemented passively for maximum accuracy (within 0.2dB), ensuring that you hear exactly what was cut into the groove. Intelligent Gain Architecture To maximize performance with a wide range of sources, the FFPre MKII's line inputs are divided into specific gain groups. Input 6 offers high gain (26dB) and high input impedance (80k Ohms) for classic analog sources like tuners or tape decks. Inputs 4 and 5 provide lower gain (18dB) and lower impedance (30k Ohms), specifically optimized for modern high-output digital sources like CD players and streamers. This thoughtful design ensures the volume control always operates in its optimal range for the best possible signal-to-noise ratio. Purist Construction Every aspect of the FFPre MKII is designed for sonic purity. The chassis is non-magnetic aluminum with a powder-coated finish and anodized printing. The power supply features an ultra-low noise, low-leakage mains transformer produced in-house and mechanically decoupled from the chassis to prevent vibration. The signal path is kept as short as possible, with high-quality components like foil-in-oil capacitors and precision resistors used throughout. The Listening Room Difference We’re a third-generation family business with a brick-and-mortar showroom in Chestertown, Maryland, and a reputation built on trust, not hype. Whether you’re visiting in person or ordering online, we bring decades of experience, personalized service, and honest guidance to every interaction. We don’t just ship boxes. We help build systems, answer your questions like real humans, and make sure every detail of your setup is right, from the cables to the final connection. Our passion is helping you get the most out of your gear, with support that lasts well beyond the sale. Specifications Topology Single-Ended Zero-Feedback (Purely Active) Tube Complement 2x 12J5GT (Line/Phono), 2x PC86 (Phono), 2x 12J5GT (Phono Output) Phono Inputs 3 x RCA (Selectable) Line Inputs 3 x RCA (2x Low Gain, 1x High Gain) Phono Gain (MC) 65dB @ 1kHz Phono Loading Selectable: 100, 200, 500 Ohms (Standard MC Configuration) Line Gain 26dB (Input 6), 18dB (Inputs 4/5) Outputs 2 x Main Output (RCA), 1 x Tape/Monitor Out Volume Control Dual Mono Manual Rotary Potentiometers Dimensions (W x D x H) 434 x 434 x 154 mm Weight 11.5 kg Origin Handmade in Aachen, Germany
