Primare PRE35 Modular Preamplifier at Vinyl Sound Buffalo, NY USA

The PRE35 is a modular fully balanced preamplifier from Primare (Malmö, Sweden), available at Vinyl Sound in Buffalo, NY, USA. Built on a four-layer main board with fully balanced circuitry, it provides 2 × balanced XLR input pairs and 3 × RCA inputs alongside dual XLR and RCA PRE outputs — delivering exceptional low-noise, distortion-free analog preamplification with the shortest possible signal path. Its modular architecture accepts the optional DM35 DAC module and SM35 Prisma streaming module at any time, making the PRE35 a future-proof system control center that can evolve from a pure analog preamplifier into a fully networked, high-resolution streaming hub without replacement.

Four-Layer Balanced Circuit Design

The PRE35 is engineered around a precision four-layer main board with a dedicated ground plane, developed to minimize the signal path to the absolute shortest length achievable and to eliminate noise coupling between circuit sections. The fully balanced design maintains differential signal integrity from input through to the XLR PRE outputs, producing a noise floor and distortion performance that sets the PRE35 apart from conventional single-ended preamplifier designs at comparable price points. Both XLR and RCA connections are supported across all inputs and outputs, giving the PRE35 the flexibility to anchor any high-performance analog system regardless of whether source components and power amplifiers use balanced or unbalanced connections.

Modular Design — DAC and Prisma Ready

The PRE35's modular architecture is a cornerstone of the Primare ecosystem. At purchase, it operates as a high-performance pure analog preamplifier. The optional DM35 DAC module adds high-resolution digital-to-analog conversion including Toslink, coaxial, and USB inputs at any later date. The optional SM35 Prisma streaming module adds AirPlay 2, Chromecast built-in, Spotify Connect, Roon Ready, and multi-room control via the Prisma app — again, installable at any future point. For buyers wanting the full digital and streaming feature set from day one, the PRE35 Prisma DM36 variant is available with both modules included. The PRE35 pairs naturally with Primare's A35.2 stereo power amplifier and A35.8 eight-channel amplifier as part of the 35 Series separates lineup.

Key Features

• Fully Balanced Circuit Design: Four-layer main board with dedicated ground plane for the lowest possible noise floor and signal path length.
• 2 × Balanced XLR Inputs and 3 × RCA Inputs: Comprehensive analog source connectivity for any high-performance system.
• 2 × Balanced XLR PRE Outputs: Dual balanced outputs for flexible single or dual power amplifier connection.
• Optional DM35 DAC Module: High-resolution digital conversion addable at any time, enabling digital source connectivity.
• Optional SM35 Prisma Streaming Module: AirPlay 2, Chromecast, Spotify Connect, and Roon Ready — installable at any future date.
• RCA PRE and LINE Outputs: Additional unbalanced output options for maximum system flexibility.
• Scandinavian Design: Signature Primare control knob and clean-line aesthetic embodying lagom, in Black or Titanium finish.
• C25 IR Remote: With IR 3.5mm in/out for system integration.

Technical Specifications

Connections at a Glance

• 2 × XLR Balanced Analog Inputs
• 3 × RCA Stereo Analog Inputs
• 2 × XLR Balanced PRE Outputs
• 1 × RCA PRE Output
• 1 × RCA LINE Output
• IR In / Out (3.5mm)
• C25 IR Remote
• Optional: DM35 DAC module
• Optional: SM35 Prisma streaming module

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Primare PRE35?

The Primare PRE35 is a modular fully balanced preamplifier from Primare (Sweden) built on a four-layer main board for minimum signal path length and maximum noise rejection. It includes two balanced XLR input pairs, three RCA inputs, and dual balanced XLR PRE outputs, and accepts the optional DM35 DAC module and SM35 Prisma streaming module at any time. It is available at Vinyl Sound in Buffalo, NY, USA.

What is the difference between the Primare PRE35 and the PRE35 Prisma DM36?

The PRE35 is the base preamplifier with analog inputs and outputs only — no digital conversion and no network streaming. The PRE35 Prisma DM36 includes both the DM36 DAC module (ESS ES9068A, PCM 384kHz, DSD 256, MQA) and the SM35 Prisma streaming module (AirPlay 2, Chromecast, Roon Ready) installed from the factory. Buyers wanting a pure analog preamplifier now with the option to add digital capability later should start with the PRE35. Those wanting the complete feature set from day one should choose the PRE35 Prisma DM36.

How does the Primare PRE35 compare to the Pass Labs XP-12?

The Primare PRE35 and Pass Labs XP-12 are both premium balanced preamplifiers with XLR inputs and outputs, but they differ in design philosophy and scope. The XP-12 uses Pass Labs' Class A JFET circuit topology in a pure analog, single-purpose design. The PRE35 uses a four-layer balanced PCB architecture and offers modular expandability — the ability to add a high-resolution DAC and full network streaming platform without replacing the unit. For buyers seeking a pure analog preamplifier that can evolve as their system needs change, the PRE35's modular approach is a practical advantage the XP-12 cannot match.

How does the Primare PRE35 compare to the Bryston BP17 Cubed?

The Primare PRE35 and Bryston BP17 Cubed are both fully balanced analog preamplifiers at comparable performance levels. The BP17 Cubed uses Bryston's discrete Class A balanced circuit design with a 20-year warranty. The PRE35 differentiates itself through modular upgradability — the DM35 DAC and SM35 Prisma modules transform it into a DAC-equipped streaming preamplifier without chassis replacement. Both support dual balanced XLR output pairs for driving multiple power amplifiers simultaneously.

Can I add streaming to the Primare PRE35 later?

Yes. The PRE35 accepts the SM35 Prisma streaming module at any point after purchase, bringing AirPlay 2, Chromecast built-in, Spotify Connect, Roon Ready, and Bluetooth multi-room capability to the preamplifier without any chassis replacement. The DM35 DAC module can also be added independently, or both modules can be installed together to create the full PRE35 Prisma DM36 configuration.

What power amplifiers pair well with the Primare PRE35?

The PRE35's natural partners within the Primare 35 Series are the A35.2 stereo power amplifier and the A35.8 eight-channel amplifier. Its dual balanced XLR PRE outputs make it straightforward to drive two separate power amplifiers simultaneously — for example, dedicated left and right monoblocks, or a stereo amplifier for the front channels alongside the A35.8 for a multi-channel cinema array. The PRE35 also pairs naturally with third-party balanced power amplifiers from manufacturers including Hegel, Parasound, and NAD.

Where can I buy the Primare PRE35 in Buffalo, NY?

The Primare PRE35 is available at Vinyl Sound, an authorized Primare dealer in Buffalo, NY, USA. The Vinyl Sound team provides expert guidance on preamplifier selection, module configuration, and full system building. Visit vinylsound.com or contact the Buffalo showroom for availability and demonstration.