Primare PRE35 Prisma: balanced stereo preamplifier with DAC and network player
PRE35 Prisma is the complete configuration of the PRE35 preamplifier: the same balanced chassis houses both the DM36 conversion module and the SM35 network module. Compared with the PRE35 DAC it therefore adds streaming, Ethernet and WiFi connection, the USB-A port, multi-room playback and control from the Prisma app; compared with the base PRE35 it adds the whole digital section as well.
The analogue circuit is balanced throughout and relies on a main board with four layers, so that the signal path is as short as it can be. The DM36 converts PCM signals up to 384 kHz/32 bit and DSD 256, offers up-sampling choices and processes MQA files; the chip named in the specification is the ESS ES9068A. With this module the preamplifier also gains WiSA, a high-resolution wireless link to compatible powered loudspeakers.
Key features
- ESS ES9068A D/A converter, PCM up to 384 kHz/32 bit, DSD 256, MQA
- Digital inputs: 4 Toslink optical, 2 coaxial, 1 USB-B
- USB-A port on the Prisma module: it reads PCM up to 24 bit/192 kHz and DSD 128
- Network: two Ethernet ports plus dual-band WiFi at 2.4 and 5 GHz
- Analogue inputs: 2 XLR stereo pairs and 3 RCA stereo pairs
- Analogue outputs: 2 pre pairs on XLR; on RCA one pre and one line; one digital output
- Control: C25 remote, IR on 3.5 mm jacks (input and output), 12 V trigger output, RS232 port
Streaming and control
Prisma gathers Primare's network functions: stored and streamed content played in several rooms and zones (multi-room, multi-zone), over cable or wirelessly, managed from phones and tablets through the dedicated app. The PRE35 Prisma is Roon Ready and includes Spotify Connect, Bluetooth and AirPlay 2; Chromecast built-in is on board too and opens direct access to hundreds of streaming apps and services, voice control included. UPnP/DLNA is on board as well.
Technical data
The dimensions are 430 mm wide, 106 mm high and 420 mm deep; the weight is 11.3 kg. The finishes on sale are Black and Titanium.
