Primare Audio PRE35 – Modular Preamplifier

PRE35 – modular preamplifier PRE35 modular preamplifier features dual XLR inputs and outputs, fully balanced analog preamplification circuitry, and modular construction allowing for sophisticated DAC and Prisma network modules to be added to the all analog preamplifier at any time. OVERVIEW Technology PRE35 modular balanced is an exceptional system control center, providing umprecedented low noise and distortion free selection and transmission of any analog input, as a result of the carefully circuit design benefitting from the use of a four layer main board to achieve the shortest possible signal path. In addition to comprehensive input and output options, featuring both XLR and RCA connection, the modular design of the PRE35 also allows for a sophisticated digital to analog converter module, DM36, as well as a Prisma network player module, SM35, to be added to the amplifier at any time for unprecedented system customization. The look and feel of Scandinavia We believe that every aspect of our products – the way they look, the satisfying feel of the controls – contributes to the overall experience of living with Primare. As a result, Primare products exude the hallmarks of Scandinavian design – simple, elegant designs, with approachable and easy to understand functionality. An example of this is our signature control knob, known throughout the industry for both its appearance as well as how it feels in the hand as an input is selected or volume adjusted. – or as we say lagom, not too much not too little, everything in balance, proportion, and harmony. Modular Design and System Building We feel it is essential to offer modularity whenever possible in order to have just the right features, both now and for the future. Modular design is featured in the I25 and I35 modular integrated amplifiers, as well as the PRE35 modular preamplifier, all of which can be updated with DAC and Prisma modules, as well as the CD35 CD player that can have the Prisma module added, either at the time of purchase or at a later date. As a result, we are able to offer a carefully considered array of models and configurations in order to allow for device selection that best fits any system need. For example, a CD35 with Prisma module installed can be paired with an I35 integrated amplifier, allowing for a separation of analog and digital stages. Or, an I35 with DAC and Prisma modules installed can be paired with a DD35 CD transport, allowing for multi-room and multi-zone playback of every input, whether analog or digital source. SM35 – Prisma module DM36 – Digital-to-analog converter module PRE35 Preamplifier and A35.2 Amplifier In this video we review the features and functionality of both the A35.2 amplifier and the PRE35 modular preamplifier platform that may make them the perfect addition to your system. SPECS XLR 2 x stereo pair analog inputs RCA 3 x stereo pair analog inputs XLR 2 x stereo pair analog PRE outputs RCA 1 x stereo pair analog PRE output RCA 1 x stereo pair analog LINE output C25 remote IR system control IR 3.5 mm input/output 12V Trigger 3.5 mm output RS232 outboard system control port Dimensions 430 x 106 x 420 mm (WHD) Weight 11.3 Kg Finish black or titanium REVIEWS Audiograde, UK, January 2025 PRE35 &amp; A35.2: Best of 2025 Pre and Power Amplifiers “If you want a no holds barred amplifier pairing then look no further than Primare’s finest. Oodles of proprietary power, a raft of features that’ll last well into the future and the ability to drive partnering gear at any price. And if you double up the power amps to mono mode, then things get even better.” View full review Diapason, October 2025, France PRE35 Prisma DM36 + A35.2 – PRE35 PRISMA DM36 &amp; A35.2 If there are still detractors of digital and Class D, these two electronics could well shake up their convictions. To say that it’s breathable, spatial, linear, harmonically rich, explored down to the smallest signals, and, what’s more, capable of instantaneous dynamics in the most vivid transients, is a fairly modest summary of the situation. If we compare these (too) rarely found capabilities with the total budget required to acquire them, there’s enough to shake even the most reputable references to their foundations. Are you missing vinyl? The R35 phono stage is the perfect complement. More of a CD player? With the DD35 transport, “the resolution and depth of exploration of micro-information have taken a giant leap forward”. Do we like this 35 series from Primare? No need to draw you a picture. Extended listening to the preamp/amp pair fully confirms the feeling of musical competence and straightforwardness in the execution experienced so far when listening to the two aforementioned sources. In direct-to-DAC streamer mode, the preamp and amp form a pair that we don’t want to separate. Thus supported, the A35.2 is capable of both delicacy and dazzling bursts. Although the manufacturer says too little about the structure of its preamp, it proves to be of a transparency and rigor – in the sense of respect for the musical content – unheard of in this product range. Diapason D’Or Award View/download full review as PDF Stereophile, USA, October 2025 PRE35 Prisma – Stereophile Recommended Component “Class A – The Primare PRE35 Prisma is a finely honed, well-made, and—considering the state-of-the-art technologies it incorporates—fairly priced streaming preamplifier. Its simple Scandinavian aesthetic belies its rich functionality and flexibility. If you are looking for a streaming preamp with its feature set and have a budget and system to match, you should put the Primare PRE35 Prisma on your short list for audition. Recommended. Lagom!” View full review the Ear, UK, September 2025 PRE35 Prisma DM36: Primare PRE35 streaming preamp with hygge appeal “I rather liked the Primare PRE35’s even-handed performance, which was naturally balanced and rarely if ever brittle or harsh, it presented music in a very listenable fashion, especially when set to upsampling. It may not seem the most obviously hyper-analytical of streamers, but it did not throw the spotlight onto, or highlight, any one part of the spectrum. Instead the detail was subtly presented, so that one could simply sit back and enjoy the music. When playing from USB or CD sources, this intrinsic musicality was retained, but with greater clarity, and transparency.” View full review Andrew Robinson Reviews, US, May 2024 PRE35 Prisma DM36 + A35.2: Class D Done Right “I have really really enjoyed my time with the Primare PRE35 and A35.2 I have relied on them pretty heavily in evaluating many other products you’ve undoubtedly seen on this channel these past few months because they are just very very good at what they do. I believe the designers at Primare have understood their assignment and for the right listener these products will undoubtedly be just right, a minimalist high-fi dream come true.” View full review Pursuit Perfect System, UK, June 2024 PRE35 Prisma DM36 + A35.2: All new hifi should be like this? “In this video I am reviewing two HiFi Products from Swedish high end manufacturer Primare the Pre 35 Prisma which is a preamplifier with the Prisma streaming module and DM36 DAC module built in. That is being used with the matching Primare A 35.2 Stereo Power Amplifier. In the review I look at all four of these products individually and how they compare to other market alternatives at similar price points to see whether each adds real value for money, but either way this is very nice HiFi to live with and listen to. However I feel the modular aspect of the PRE35 is what makes it stand out because it doesn’t force the owner into buying features they don’t want or need.” View full review Audiograde, UK, June 2025 PRE35 Prisma DM36 + A35.2: Primare PRE35 Prisma and A35.2 amplifiers review In Summary: As flagship pre/power combinations go these take some beating at their price (and considerably more). Primare’s always had a knack for making hifi seem refreshing simple, because its approach is well thought out, and the PRE35 and A35.2 amps epitomise this. Ladened with sensible features and optional upgrades, ease of use and above all, a sonic quality that is hi-end yet so easy to live with, thanks to effortless dynamics and sheer musicality, this is a system that’s worth a serious demo. View full review Alpha Audio, NL, May 2025 PRE35 Prisma DM36 + A35.2: Power and Glory! “Conclusion: The Primare PRE35 Prisma and A35.2 fit together very well but are also certainly worth it separately. Both devices are made with care and look timeless and sleek in our opinion. They also remain relevant and only get new technology if it offers added value. In terms of sound, we have heard few shortcomings. These are products for the long term that reproduce music in a captivating way. The price is certainly fair for what you get. Both recommended!” View full review FWD, Benelux, March 2025 PRE35 + CD35 + A35.2: Primare – Striking hifi in Scandinavian design “Beautiful and timeless designs that you will enjoy looking at for years. Beautiful and high-quality sound reproduction, which you can enjoy for years to come. Everything is solidly built. If you study the entire delivery program of Primare, you will be amazed. A multichannel amplifier? A home cinema processor? eARC and Dirac DSP options? Dolby Atmos and DTS X? The Swedes also deliver all of that. You don’t have to shop around any further. Highly recommended, and given the high sound quality and finish, I find the Primares very competitively priced.” View full review FWD, The Netherlands, November 2023 PRE35 Prisma DM36 + A35.8: A dose of extra resolution Conclusion This review is aimed at two audiences: existing Primare owners considering the new DM36 card, but also people thinking about a new PRE35 and A35.8 system. After all, the new DAC will now be built into the DM36 and PRISMA versions of this preamplifier as standard. If we then look at the system as a whole, we must conclude that the combination PRE35 in its new PRISMA DM36 version with the A35.8 output stage is significantly better than the previous version. If we then reflect on the chosen speakers that can certainly be called high-end at 12,000 euros per pair, we do not find that the Primare system falls through the cracks. On the contrary, the brand has achieved a new height with this DM36, which makes this system even more suitable for demanding, critical reproducers. View full review Stereophile, USA, March 2024 PRE35 Prisma – Stereophile Recommended Component “Class A – The Primare PRE35 Prisma is a finely honed, well-made, and—considering the state-of-the-art technologies it incorporates—fairly priced streaming preamplifier. Its simple Scandinavian aesthetic belies its rich functionality and flexibility. If you are looking for a streaming preamp with its feature set and have a budget and system to match, you should put the Primare PRE35 Prisma on your short list for audition. Recommended. Lagom!” View full review Stereophile, USA, April 2023 PRE35 Prisma – Stereophile Recommended Component “Class A – The Primare PRE35 Prisma is a finely honed, well-made, and—considering the state-of-the-art technologies it incorporates—fairly priced streaming preamplifier. Its simple Scandinavian aesthetic belies its rich functionality and flexibility. If you are looking for a streaming preamp with its feature set and have a budget and system to match, you should put the Primare PRE35 Prisma on your short list for audition. Recommended. Lagom!” View full review Stereophile, USA, March 2023 PRE35 Prisma – Primare PRE35 Prisma streaming preamplifier “The Primare PRE35 Prisma is a finely honed, well-made, and—considering the state-of-the-art technologies it incorporates—fairly priced streaming preamplifier. Its simple Scandinavian aesthetic belies its rich functionality and flexibility. If you are looking for a streaming preamp with its feature set and have a budget and system to match, you should put the Primare PRE35 Prisma on your short list for audition. Recommended. Lagom!” View full review HiFi+, UK, October 2021 HiFi+ Innovation Award 2021 Primare have received an Innovation award from HiFi+ with the following citation: “First founded in 1985 by industrial designer Bo Christensen, Primare’s is perhaps one of the most recognisably Scandinavian brands in audio. Its combination of minimalism and good performance all point to a Swedish brand. So, when Primare uses a Swedish word to describe its ethos, perhaps we shouldn’t be too surprised. That word is ‘Lagom’ (pronounced ‘laah-goam’) and roughly translates to ‘just the right amount.’ In Primare’s world this means keeping everything in balance, harmony and proportion, and that the music – rather than the technology or the box in which it comes – should be the focus of audio. To this end, Primare employs a very modular approach to its product design, such as its latest Ultra Fast Power Device module (used throughout the range), which shows what Class D can do in the hands of very competent design engineers.“ Link to announcement: HiFi+200 Innovation Award View/download full review as PDF </