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Primare I35 DAC DM36

Name: Primare I35 DAC DM36
Brand: Primare
SKU: i35-dac-modular-integrated-amplfiier-and-digital-to-analog-converter
Rating: 4.6 (2 reviews)

View at Primare

Built-in DAC

Balanced Output

Pre-Out

Remote Control

IR Input

I35 DAC DM36 combines the NEW DM36 digital to analog converter module with the award winning I35 modular integrated amplifier platform, featuring our UFPD 2 amplification technology delivering 150 watts of power per channel and balanced inputs, with the option of adding the SM35 Prisma network player module at any time.

Technology

I35 DAC DM36 modular integrated amplifier is the latest iteration of Primare’s now iconic integrated amplifiers and among the first to use our new UFPD 2 power system, a radical reworking of Primare’s award-winning UFPD all-analog Class-D technology.

Providing 150 watts at 8 ohms of absolutely linear UFPD 2 amplification across the entire audible bandwidth, I35 DAC delivers naturally fast, clean and agile sound with an unprecedented ability to bring music to life.

In addition to a pair of XLR balanced and three RCA analog inputs, I35 DAC DM36 includes a DM36 full-featured digital to analog converter stage enabling up to PCM 384kHz/32bit and DSD 256 conversion.

I35 DAC DM36 continues a Primare tradition of delivering astonishing performance from compact and elegant integrated amplifiers for easy installation into virtually any living environment.

Technology

In addition to a pair of XLR balanced and three RCA analog inputs, I35 DAC DM36 includes a DM36 full-featured digital to analog converter stage enabling up to PCM 384kHz/32bit and DSD 256 conversion.

I35 DAC DM36 continues a Primare tradition of delivering astonishing performance from compact and elegant integrated amplifiers for easy installation into virtually any living environment.

The I35 DAC DM36 includes the sophisticated digital to analog converter module, DM36, a full-featured digital to analog converter stage enabling up to PCM 384kHz/32bit and DSD 256 conversion, featuring up-sampling options and MQA processing.

MQA (Master Quality Authenticated) is an award-winning British technology that delivers the sound of the original master recording. The master MQA file is fully authenticated and is small enough to stream or download.

Visit mqa.co.uk for more information.

The modular design of the I35 DAC DM36 allows for the Prisma network player module module, SM35, to be added to the amplifier at any time for unprecedented system customisation.

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.

The look and feel of Scandinavia

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.

In this video we review the features and functionality of both the I25 and I35 modular integrated amplifier platforms that may make them the perfect addition to your system.

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Overall Score 91/100

Deliciously Crispy

Primare I35 DAC DM36 — refined, upgradable integrated amplifier

The Primare I35 with the DM36 module pairs muscular Class‑D power with a high‑end ESS ES9068A DAC for a natural, detailed presentation. Reviewers at Jaap Veenstra / Alpha Audio call it a very capable all‑rounder that competes with the NAD M33 and Hegel H390. Expect strong dynamics and control—Primare’s UPFD‑2 topology delivers ample headroom (spec 2×150W, measured peaks higher) and a low noise floor supporting wide dynamic range.

Build is sleek and sturdy, and connectivity is class‑leading thanks to the Prisma streaming module, multiple optical/coax/USB inputs and balanced XLRs. Ideal for listeners who want high resolution streaming, upgradeable digital cores and a single‑box, long‑term solution that blends musicality with modern features.

Alpha Audio

"What we really like is that customers can easily upgrade their beautiful Primare products."

Pros

Powerful, controlled dynamics with ample headroom—measured outputs exceed the spec and a robust supply delivers musical control.
Extensive connectivity and streaming via the Prisma module plus multiple digital and analog inputs make it a flexible hub for modern systems.
High-resolution, low‑noise DAC performance (ESS ES9068A) yields transparency and a wide dynamic range for revealing playback.
Modular DM36 DAC is user‑installable, extending longevity and reducing the need for full replacements—strong value and sustainability advantage.

Sound Quality

90/100

Dynamics

91/100

With 2 x 150W (measured up to 170W) and a powerful power supply the review highlights ample headroom and control, noting good flow and control. The measured high dynamic range and reviewers' comments about sufficient power and control justify a strong dynamics score relative to its Class AB power band. No reviewer reports running out of steam or clipping.

Soundstage Imaging

89/100

While the review doesn't dwell extensively on imaging specifics, mentions of low noise floor, control and musical flow imply good separation, focus and stable staging. Competing with reference-level rivals suggests competent width and depth for its class. Score reflects very good imaging without multiple explicit references to holographic or reference imaging.

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Build Quality

88/100

The i35 is described as sleek, stylish and 'lagom' — well finished without unnecessary frills, implying solid industrial design and good build standards. The presence of an upgradable DAC board (DM36) and substantial weight (11 kg) suggest a substantial chassis and quality internals. No explicit criticisms of construction or thermal issues were reported.

Features Connectivity

95/100

Very well featured: ESS ES9068A DAC (high-quality), Prisma streaming module (Ethernet/Wi‑Fi/USB), multiple digital inputs (4 optical, 2 coax, USB-B), balanced XLR inputs, pre-outs/line outs, RS232 and 12V trigger for automation. The combination of high-end DAC, comprehensive digital connectivity and network streaming places it at the top end of the feature scale for integrated amplifiers.

Value for Money

90/100

Review positions the i35 DM36 as competitive with higher-profile models (NAD M33, Hegel H390) and praises the upgradable DAC board as preventing large repeat investments and e-waste, a clear value-add. Given its capabilities and reviewer sentiment about upgradeability and competitiveness, the amp represents a justified premium in its segment.