Primare CD35 Prisma CD Player and Network Streamer at Vinyl Sound Buffalo, NY USA

The CD35 Prisma is an award-winning all-in-one CD player and network streamer from Primare (Malmö, Sweden), available at Vinyl Sound in Buffalo, NY, USA. At its core is a TEAC CD 5020A-AT precision transport delivering a jitter-free digital signal to an ESS Sabre ES9028PRO 8-channel DAC stage, with balanced XLR and RCA analog outputs. Powered by the Prisma network platform with AirPlay 2, Chromecast built-in, Bluetooth, Spotify Connect, and Roon Ready, the CD35 Prisma is the most complete digital music player Primare has ever built. Awarded EISA Stereo System 2019-2020 in partnership with the I35 amplifier, it is the definitive source component for the Primare 35 Series ecosystem.

TEAC Transport, ESS Sabre DAC, and Output Stage

The CD35 Prisma is built around the TEAC CD 5020A-AT dedicated CD drive — a precision, low-resonance mechanism delivering bit-perfect data extraction with minimal jitter. That digital signal feeds an all-new DAC stage built around the ESS Sabre ES9028PRO, an eight-channel audiophile-grade converter chipset, converting the signal to analog through a finely tuned output stage. Balanced XLR and single-ended RCA analog outputs provide maximum system compatibility. Two output modes extend the CD35 Prisma's versatility: fixed output mode for use as a source component in any system, and variable output mode enabling it to serve as a combined source and volume control for active loudspeaker setups.

Prisma Network Platform and Modular Design

The integrated Prisma network module provides access to Tidal, Qobuz, and Spotify Connect alongside AirPlay 2, Chromecast built-in, Bluetooth, and Roon Ready — with multi-room and multi-zone control across the home managed via the dedicated Prisma app. Chromecast built-in offers a unique direct connection portal to hundreds of streaming services with voice control support. The modular design allows the Prisma network module to be moved between components — for example, transferring from the CD35 to the I35 amplifier if system reconfiguration requires — and ensures future feature additions via firmware and module updates.

Key Features

• TEAC CD 5020A-AT Transport: Dedicated precision CD drive with low-resonance construction for jitter-free digital extraction.
• ESS Sabre ES9028PRO 8-Channel DAC: Audiophile-grade conversion stage delivering superior analog output quality across both channels.
• Balanced XLR Analog Output: One stereo XLR pair for fully balanced connection to any preamplifier or integrated amplifier with balanced inputs.
• Fixed and Variable Output Modes: Operates as a standard source component or as source-and-volume-control for active speaker systems.
• Prisma Network Streaming: AirPlay 2, Chromecast built-in, Bluetooth, Spotify Connect, and Roon Ready with multi-room control via the Prisma app.
• Digital Outputs: Coaxial RCA and Toslink digital outputs for connection to external DACs or amplifiers with digital inputs.
• Modular Design: Prisma network module is transferable between Primare components; future modules and features addable without chassis replacement.
• Scandinavian Design: Tactile precision controls embodying the principle of lagom in Black or Titanium finish.

Technical Specifications

Connections at a Glance

• 1 × XLR Balanced Analog Output
• 1 × RCA Stereo Analog Output
• 1 × RCA Coaxial Digital Output
• 1 × Toslink Digital Output
• 1 × USB Input
• 2 × Ethernet
• Wi-Fi + Bluetooth
• 12V Trigger In / Out / IR In / Out / RS232

Awards and Critical Recognition

• EISA Stereo System 2019-2020 — Expert Imaging and Sound Association (EISA), awarded as part of the CD35 Prisma / I35 system, 2019

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Primare CD35 Prisma?

The Primare CD35 Prisma is an all-in-one CD player and network streamer from Primare (Sweden) combining a TEAC CD 5020A-AT precision transport, an ESS Sabre ES9028PRO 8-channel DAC, balanced XLR and RCA outputs, and the Prisma network platform with AirPlay 2, Chromecast built-in, Roon Ready, and Spotify Connect. It is available at Vinyl Sound in Buffalo, NY, USA.

How does the Primare CD35 Prisma compare to the Cambridge Audio CXC transport with a separate DAC?

The Primare CD35 Prisma and a Cambridge Audio CXC transport represent two fundamentally different approaches to CD playback. The CXC is a pure transport requiring a separate external DAC for analog output, while the CD35 Prisma integrates the TEAC CD 5020A-AT transport, ESS Sabre ES9028PRO DAC, and full Prisma network streaming in a single component. The CD35 Prisma also provides balanced XLR analog output and coaxial and Toslink digital outputs, enabling it to serve as both a complete analog source and a digital transport feeding an external DAC if preferred — making it significantly more versatile than a dedicated transport solution.

How does the Primare CD35 Prisma compare to the Marantz CD 60?

The Primare CD35 Prisma and Marantz CD 60 are both audiophile CD players, but differ substantially in scope. The CD 60 is a dedicated CD player with a built-in DAC and no network streaming capability. The CD35 Prisma adds the full Prisma network platform — AirPlay 2, Chromecast built-in, Roon Ready, and Spotify Connect — plus balanced XLR outputs and the modularity to transfer the Prisma module to other components. For buyers wanting a single source component covering both physical disc playback and high-resolution network streaming, the CD35 Prisma offers a substantially more complete solution.

Does the Primare CD35 Prisma support Roon?

Yes. The CD35 Prisma is Roon Ready via the SM35 Prisma network module, allowing it to appear as a Roon endpoint directly in the Roon interface with full lossless audio transport. It also supports AirPlay 2, Chromecast built-in, and Spotify Connect for streaming without a Roon subscription.

What is the variable output mode on the CD35 Prisma?

In variable output mode, the CD35 Prisma's analog output level is controlled by the unit itself rather than being fixed, allowing it to connect directly to a power amplifier or active loudspeakers without a separate preamplifier. This makes it useful for streamlined two-component systems where a dedicated preamplifier is not required. Fixed output mode provides a consistent level for use as a standard source component within a preamplifier-based system.

What amplifiers pair best with the Primare CD35 Prisma?

The CD35 Prisma was awarded the EISA Stereo System 2019-2020 award in partnership with the Primare I35 integrated amplifier, and this remains its natural pairing within the Primare 35 Series ecosystem. It also pairs directly with the I25, I35 Prisma DM36, or PRE35 Prisma DM36 preamplifier via its balanced XLR or RCA outputs. The digital coaxial output allows it to serve as a CD transport feeding the DAC stage of any Primare integrated amplifier with the DM35 or DM36 module installed.

Where can I buy the Primare CD35 Prisma in Buffalo, NY?

The Primare CD35 Prisma is available at Vinyl Sound, an authorized Primare dealer in Buffalo, NY, USA. The Vinyl Sound team provides expert advice on system matching, source component selection, and Primare ecosystem configuration. Visit vinylsound.com or contact the Buffalo showroom for availability and demonstration.