Primare I25 DAC DM36 100W Integrated Amplifier with ESS DAC

The Primare I25 DAC DM36 is a full-size modular integrated amplifier from Sweden's Primare 25 Series, combining 100 watts per channel of UFPD 2 all-analogue Class D amplification with the DM36 digital-to-analogue converter module pre-installed. The DM36 is built around the ESS ES9068A DAC chipset, supporting PCM conversion up to 384kHz/32-bit and DSD up to 256, with selectable up-sampling and MQA decoding. Five RCA analogue inputs are complemented by four Toslink optical inputs, two RCA coaxial digital inputs, a USB-B port, and a digital output, covering virtually every analogue and digital source a modern system is likely to include.

The modular architecture means the I25 DAC DM36 is not a fixed product. A second internal slot remains available for the SM35 Prisma network player module, which can be added at any point to bring AirPlay 2, Bluetooth, Chromecast built-in, Spotify Connect, and Roon Ready capability into the same chassis.

Primare's UFPD 2 technology delivers absolutely linear amplification across the entire audible bandwidth, and AUDIO-Stereoplay called the I25 DAC their "hot top tip" for listeners wanting to upgrade digital sources and enjoy high-resolution streaming, describing its price-to-performance ratio as outstanding. ON-MAG noted its ability to handle both demanding material and emotionally subtle recordings with equal conviction.

Key Features

• 100W per channel into 8 ohms; 200W into 4 ohms
• UFPD 2 all-analogue Class D amplification technology
• DM36 module: ESS ES9068A DAC, PCM 384kHz/32-bit, DSD 256
• MQA decoding and selectable up-sampling
• 5 x RCA analogue inputs; 4 x Toslink, 2 x RCA coaxial digital inputs
• USB-B digital input and RCA digital output
• SM35 Prisma module slot available for future streaming upgrade
• Dedicated RCA LINE and PRE outputs
• Home cinema surround passthrough mode
• C25 multi-product IR system remote included
• RS232 outboard control; 12V trigger; 3.5mm IR in/out
• Available in black or titanium; 430 x 106 x 420mm; 11kg
• HiFi+ Innovation Award 2021; AUDIO-Stereoplay Outstanding Price/Performance 2023

Warranty:

1-year manufacturer's warranty

Why Consider the Primare I25 DAC DM36

The I25 DAC DM36 is the right choice for listeners who want a single, well-specified amplifier that handles both analogue and digital sources at a high standard, with the option to add streaming later. The ESS ES9068A DAC performs at a level typically associated with standalone converters costing considerably more, and the UFPD 2 amplifier module drives demanding speaker loads with control and authority. With a Prisma module slot still open, the I25 DAC DM36 can grow into a full streaming hub without any change to the chassis, making it a genuinely future-proof investment. For an Indian audiophile building a digital-forward system on a considered budget, it is one of the most complete and expandable integrated amplifiers available at its price.

Ideal for

• Listeners with multiple digital sources wanting a high-quality built-in DAC
• CD and high-resolution file listeners requiring PCM 384kHz, DSD 256, and MQA support
• Those who want full streaming capability later via the SM35 Prisma module
• Systems with both analogue and digital sources requiring five RCA and six digital inputs
• Home cinema setups using the surround passthrough input
• Installations requiring RS232, 12V trigger, and IR in/out system control

What's in the Box

• Primare I25 DAC DM36 Modular Integrated Amplifier (DM36 module pre-installed)
• C25 IR Remote Control
• Power Cable
• Quick Start Guide and Safety Documentation

Technical Specifications