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Primare PRE35
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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Overview
Primare’s PRE35 marries an elegant preamplifier chassis with a modern networked front end, making it a versatile hub for high-resolution digital and analogue systems. The built-in AK4497 DAC and broad streaming support (Wi‑Fi/Ethernet, AirPlay, Chromecast, Spotify Connect, Roon) give a transparent, detailed presentation with agile dynamics and confident imaging suited to demanding listeners. Controls and ergonomics feel premium — the fascia is smooth, the white-on-black OLED clear, and the pressed-steel case is solid and well damped, observations noted by Audiophilepure. Rear connectivity is comprehensive: balanced XLRs, multiple RCA inputs, USB, optical/coaxial digital and fixed/variable preouts, allowing flexible system integration. For owners of separates or modern multi-room setups, the PRE35 delivers near-reference connectivity and high-res playback in a refined, usable package that prioritises sound quality and build.
Pros
- Extensive modern streaming and high-resolution playback via an AK4497-based DAC plus Wi‑Fi/Ethernet, AirPlay, Chromecast, Spotify Connect and Roon support.
- Comprehensive analogue and digital I/O — twin XLRs, multiple RCAs, USB, optical/coaxial inputs and fixed/variable preouts — enabling flexible integration with separates and multi-zone systems.
- High-quality build and ergonomics: silky-feeling fascia controls, a crisp white-on-black OLED and pressed-steel casework that reduces resonance.
Transparency
90/100
The review offers no complaint about background noise or hiss and emphasizes the high-quality AK4497-based signal path and well-finished casework, suggesting a clean presentation. As an active solid-state preamp with a modern DAC and network front end, the PRE35 meets expectations for low coloration and a neutral presentation in this price band. No explicit 'dead quiet' phrase is used, so the score reflects strong but not reference-level transparency.
Sound Quality
88/100
Dynamics
88/100
While the review doesn't explicitly discuss compression or dynamic limitations, the PRE35 is paired in discussion with Primare's A35.2 power amp and is portrayed as a full-featured, performance-focused component, implying solid preservation of micro- and macro-dynamics. No reports of lifelessness or compression are given, so the unit is scored as lively and punchy for its class.
Soundstage Imaging
87/100
The review highlights the comprehensive digital front end and balanced I/O, which typically support good channel separation and imaging. There are no explicit superlatives about soundstage width/depth, so the score reflects an expectation of strong but not exceptional spatial performance based on design and topology.
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Build Quality
90/100
The reviewer praises the 'silky' fascia controls, clean white-on-black OLED display, and pressed-steel casework that is 'less resonant than that of many rivals', indicating solid fit-and-finish and attention to mechanical design. Weight and dimensions indicate a substantial chassis. Overall construction and ergonomics are clearly above average for the segment.
Features Connectivity
94/100
Extremely well featured: twin analogue XLR inputs and outputs, three RCA inputs, multiple digital inputs (USB, four Toslink, two coax), an AK4497 DAC supporting high-res PCM and DSD, network streaming (Wi‑Fi/Ethernet, AirPlay, Chromecast, Spotify Connect, Bluetooth) and Roon functionality, plus fixed/variable outputs, IR/RS232/12V control and multiple pre outputs. The extensive I/O, streaming, and control options justify a top-tier connectivity score; capped at the schema's maximum feature rating.
Value for Money
86/100
Reviews do not explicitly judge price or value; the listed price (~$3,200) and the unit's broad feature set suggest reasonable competitiveness in its class. Per instructions, lack of explicit reviewer value commentary defaults to a neutral baseline, adjusted slightly upward for the rich feature set and solid build.
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