Primare CD35 Prisma CD & Network Player, ESS Sabre DAC, Balanced XLR, Roon

The Primare CD35 Prisma is a full-size CD player and network streamer from Sweden's Primare 35 Series. It combines a TEAC CD-5020A-AT dedicated low-resonance CD drive with an eight-channel ESS Sabre ES9028PRO DAC and the full SM35 Prisma network player module pre-installed, making it Primare's most complete digital source component.

Balanced XLR and RCA stereo analogue outputs, along with RCA coaxial and Toslink digital outputs, provide flexible connection to any amplifier or external DAC. Fixed and variable output modes are available. In variable mode, the CD35 Prisma can drive a pair of powered speakers directly as a standalone system. ProHiFi is an authorised Primare dealer in India.

The Prisma platform covers AirPlay 2, Bluetooth, Chromecast built-in, Spotify Connect, and Roon Ready, with dual Ethernet ports, Wi-Fi, USB-A playback, and multi-room/multi-zone control via the dedicated Prisma app. Every digital source, from disc to streaming service, is handled by one component.

EISA awarded the CD35 Prisma and I35 combination their Stereo System of the Year 2019-2020, calling it the future of hi-resolution home hi-fi. Hi-Fi Choice gave the CD35 platform their Group Test Winner award in 2023, concluding it is an out-and-out winner in every way with stunningly natural sound. Stereoplay Germany described the CD35 and I35 pairing as a dream couple of quality, praising its breathtaking speed and maximum dynamics. HiFi News UK called the combination smooth, velvety, authoritative, and easy-going.

Key Features

• TEAC CD-5020A-AT dedicated low-resonance CD drive
• ESS Sabre ES9028PRO eight-channel DAC
• SM35 Prisma network player module pre-installed
• AirPlay 2, Bluetooth, Chromecast built-in, Spotify Connect
• Roon Ready
• 1 x XLR balanced and 1 x RCA stereo analogue outputs (fixed/variable)
• 1 x RCA coaxial and 1 x Toslink digital outputs
• Dual Ethernet; Wi-Fi; USB-A; multi-room via Prisma app
• C25 IR system remote; RS232; 12V trigger; IR in/out
• Full-size 35 Series chassis; 430 x 385 x 106mm; 10.8kg
• Available in black or titanium
• EISA Stereo System 2019-2020; Hi-Fi Choice Group Test Winner 2023; HiFi+ Innovation Award 2021

Warranty:

1-year manufacturer's warranty

Why Consider the Primare CD35 Prisma

The CD35 Prisma is the right choice for listeners who want one component to handle CD playback, high-resolution streaming, and network multi-room from a single chassis with no compromises. The TEAC transport and ESS Sabre DAC deliver CD playback that Hi-Fi Choice called truly jaw-dropping, and the Prisma platform provides Roon Ready, Chromecast built-in, AirPlay 2, and Spotify Connect without requiring a separate streaming device. The balanced XLR output gives a cleaner signal path for 35 Series system builds, and the variable output mode means the CD35 Prisma can serve as a complete system hub with powered speakers. EISA, Hi-Fi Choice, Stereoplay, and HiFi News have all independently confirmed that this is among the most capable and musically engaging digital source components available at its price.

Ideal for

• Listeners wanting reference CD playback and full streaming in one component
• 35 Series system builds pairing with the I35, PRE35, or A35.2 via balanced XLR
• Roon users needing a Roon Ready CD and network player with an ESS Sabre DAC
• Powered speaker setups needing a single source with variable analogue output
• Multi-room setups using Chromecast built-in or AirPlay 2 across zones
• Installations requiring RS232, 12V trigger, dual Ethernet, and IR control integration

Technical Specifications