Primare PRE35 DAC DM36 Balanced Preamplifier with ESS DAC, PCM 384kHz, MQA

The Primare PRE35 DAC DM36 is a fully balanced modular preamplifier and digital-to-analogue converter from Sweden's Primare 35 Series, combining the PRE35's four-layer balanced circuit board with the DM36 DAC module pre-installed. The fully balanced circuit design achieves the shortest possible signal path with the lowest achievable noise and distortion, while the DM36 adds an ESS ES9068A DAC supporting PCM up to 384kHz/32-bit, DSD 256, selectable up-sampling, and MQA decoding across four Toslink optical, two RCA coaxial, and one USB-B digital inputs. Dual XLR balanced inputs and three RCA analogue inputs, dual XLR PRE outputs, one RCA PRE output, and one RCA LINE output cover every connection requirement a high-performance separates system is likely to present.

A second internal slot remains available for the SM35 Prisma network player module, which adds AirPlay 2, Bluetooth, Chromecast built-in, Spotify Connect, and Roon Ready at any time without any change to the chassis. The PRE35 DAC DM36 also features WiSA high-resolution wireless speaker connectivity, allowing direct connection to compatible active speakers and subwoofers alongside the standard analogue outputs. FWD Netherlands awarded the PRE35 Prisma DM36 and A35.8 combination their Excellence Award, noting it represented a new height for the platform. Diapason D'Or France described the preamp and A35.2 pairing as breathable, spatial, linear, harmonically rich, and capable of instantaneous dynamics. For listeners who want high-resolution balanced preamplification and a serious onboard DAC today, with full streaming available on demand, the PRE35 DAC DM36 is the considered midpoint of the PRE35 platform.

Key Features

• Fully balanced preamplification; four-layer main board signal path
• 2 x XLR balanced and 3 x RCA analogue inputs
• 2 x XLR balanced PRE outputs; 1 x RCA PRE output; 1 x RCA LINE output
• DM36 module: ESS ES9068A DAC, PCM 384kHz/32-bit, DSD 256, MQA
• 4 x Toslink, 2 x RCA coaxial, 1 x USB-B digital inputs; RCA digital output
• Selectable up-sampling; WiSA wireless speaker connectivity
• SM35 Prisma module slot open for future streaming upgrade
• 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; 11.3kg
• FWD Excellence Award 2023; Diapason D'Or France 2025; HiFi+ Innovation Award 2021

Warranty:

1-year manufacturer's warranty

Why Consider the Primare PRE35 DAC DM36

The PRE35 DAC DM36 is the right choice for listeners who want a fully balanced high-resolution preamplifier with a world-class DAC already installed, and the flexibility to add streaming later. The ESS ES9068A performs at a level associated with standalone converters at considerably higher prices, and the fully balanced circuit topology ensures that every source feeds the power amplifier with maximum clarity and minimum noise. WiSA connectivity provides a cable-free option for compatible active speaker systems alongside the standard balanced outputs. With the SM35 Prisma slot still open, the upgrade path to a full Roon Ready and Chromecast streaming hub requires only one module. Paired with the A35.2, it forms what Diapason D'Or described as a pair they did not want to separate: a combination of delicacy and dazzling dynamics in a straightforward, beautifully made package.

Ideal for

• Listeners wanting balanced preamplification with a high-resolution built-in DAC
• CD, hi-res file, and DSD listeners requiring PCM 384kHz, DSD 256, and MQA
• Those planning to add Prisma streaming later via the open SM35 module slot
• WiSA active speaker users needing a balanced preamplifier as the system hub
• 35 Series system builds pairing with the A35.2, A35.8, DD35, or CD35 Prisma
• Installations requiring RS232, 12V trigger, and IR in/out system control

What's in the Box

• Primare PRE35 DAC DM36 Modular Preamplifier (DM36 module pre-installed)
• C25 IR Remote Control
• Power Cable
• Quick Start Guide and Safety Documentation

Technical Specifications