Primare PRE35 Prisma Balanced Preamplifier
Best modular preamplifier for audiophiles seeking seamless high-resolution streaming integration.
The Primare PRE35 Prisma is a modular, fully balanced preamplifier that integrates a sophisticated DM35 DAC module and an SM35 Prisma network player module. It offers exceptional system control with low noise and distortion-free analog input selection. The DM35 DAC supports up to PCM 768kHz/32bit and DSD 256 conversion, featuring WiSA high-resolution wireless speaker connectivity. The Prisma module provides extensive network music player features, including multi-room capabilities and compatibility with streaming services via Chromecast built-in, AirPlay 2, Bluetooth, and Spotify Connect. Its design embodies Scandinavian principles of simplicity and functionality.
$5299.00
Owner Satisfaction
4.5
/ 5
Category Rank
663
/ 898
#663 in Phono Preamps
Price vs Category Average
-23%
Below average
Analog Inputs
230315
/ x XLR (kΩ impedance), x RCA (kΩ impedance)
Who it's for
- Music lovers wanting seamless high-resolution streaming integration
- Long-term owners prioritizing future-proof and adaptable hardware
- Audiophiles seeking transparent and dynamic sonic performance
Who should skip it
- Listeners who prefer tactile physical controls over app-based interfaces
- Budget-conscious buyers seeking entry-level high-end audio components
- Shoppers wary of additional costs for essential digital modules
Performance breakdown
Signal Integrity
Fully balanced circuitry ensures near-perfect isolation and minimal noise floor.
Streaming Versatility
Comprehensive platform support makes high-resolution network playback effortless and intuitive.
Conversion Precision
High-bitrate DAC handles complex DSD and PCM files with exceptional clarity.
System Connectivity
Extensive analog and digital inputs accommodate even the most complex setups.
Build Philosophy
Scandinavian design language balances minimalist aesthetics with robust, functional engineering.
Future Readiness
Modular architecture allows for meaningful hardware and software upgrades over time.
Key Specs
Analog Inputs
2 x XLR (30kΩ impedance), 3 x RCA (15kΩ impedance)
Analog Outputs
1 x RCA (100Ω impedance), 2 x XLR (30kΩ impedance)
Line Output
1 x RCA (100Ω impedance)
Digital Inputs
4 x Optical/TOSLINK (192kHz/24bit), 2 x RCA (192kHz/24bit), 1 x USB-A (up to 192kHz/24bit; up to DSD128), 1 x USB-B (up to 768kHz/32bit; up to DSD256)
Digital Output
1 x RCA
Wireless Output
1x Wireless stereo output using WiSA® technology (future software upgrade)
Network Connectivity
2 x Ethernet LAN ports, 2 x Antennas for Bluetooth and Wi-Fi (IEEE 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac compliant; 2.4/5GHz)
Audio Formats Supported
WAV, LPCM, AIFF, FLAC, ALAC, WMA, OGG (up to 192kHz/24bit); MP3, MP4 (AAC) (up to 48kHz/16bits); DSD (up to DSD128)
Features
- Modular, fully balanced preamplifier design
- Includes DM35 DAC module for high-resolution audio conversion
- Features SM35 Prisma network player module for streaming and multiroom audio
- Supports up to PCM 768kHz/32bit and DSD 256 conversion
- WiSA high-resolution wireless speaker connectivity
- Utilizes relays for input switching for superior isolation and sound
- Sleek Scandinavian aesthetic with intuitive functionality
- Offers extensive network connectivity including AirPlay 2, Bluetooth, Chromecast built-in, and Spotify Connect
What customers say
Customers consistently praise the Primare PRE35 Prisma Preamplifier for its exceptional sound quality, often describing it as transparent and detailed, bringing new life to their audio collections. The elegant, minimalist design and robust build quality also receive high marks, contributing to a premium feel. Users appreciate the seamless integration of the Prisma streaming platform, finding it intuitive and reliable for accessing various digital sources. This combination of superb audio performance, sophisticated aesthetics, and user friendly digital features makes it a standout component.
Know before you buy
The PRE35 is designed with a chassis that allows for the integration of specific internal modules. This model comes pre-equipped with the DM35 DAC and SM35 Prisma network player, allowing you to upgrade or adapt the unit's digital capabilities in the future without replacing the entire preamplifier.
Yes. The integrated SM35 Prisma module supports high-resolution streaming via Chromecast built-in, AirPlay 2, and Spotify Connect. It handles a wide range of file formats including FLAC, WAV, and DSD up to 128 via network, and up to DSD256 via the USB-B input.
Yes, the unit features WiSA high-resolution wireless speaker connectivity. This allows you to connect to compatible WiSA-certified wireless speakers without the need for traditional speaker cables, providing a cleaner setup while maintaining high audio fidelity.
The preamplifier utilizes high-quality relays for input switching. This method provides superior isolation between inputs compared to standard electronic switching, which helps maintain signal purity and prevents crosstalk between your connected sources.
Absolutely. The PRE35 features a fully balanced signal path from input to output. It includes two pairs of XLR analog inputs and two pairs of XLR analog outputs, making it an excellent choice for high-end systems that utilize balanced connections to reduce noise and interference.
Yes, the USB-B input on the rear panel allows you to connect your computer directly to the unit. This bypasses your computer's internal sound card and uses the high-performance DM35 DAC to process audio files up to 768kHz/32bit and DSD256.
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$5299