Primare PRE35 Modular Preamplifier with Balanced XLR, DAC & Prisma Ready

The Primare PRE35 is a fully balanced modular preamplifier from Sweden's Primare 35 Series, built around a four-layer main board designed to achieve the shortest possible signal path with the lowest achievable noise and distortion. Dual XLR balanced inputs and outputs, three RCA analogue inputs, and two XLR plus one RCA PRE output provide complete flexibility for any system layout. Two internal expansion slots allow the DM36 digital-to-analogue converter module and SM35 Prisma network player module to be fitted at any time, making the PRE35 an analogue preamplifier today and a fully specified streaming DAC preamplifier whenever the system calls for it.

The PRE35 has accumulated an exceptional critical record across its platform variants. Stereophile listed the PRE35 Prisma as a Class A Recommended Component continuously from 2023 through 2025, describing it as a finely honed, well-made, and fairly priced streaming preamplifier whose simple Scandinavian aesthetic belies its rich functionality. Audiograde named the PRE35 and A35.2 their Best Pre and Power Amplifier pairing of 2025. Diapason D'Or France awarded the PRE35 Prisma DM36 and A35.2 combination, calling it breathable, spatial, linear, harmonically rich, and capable of instantaneous dynamics in the most vivid transients. FWD Benelux named it the ultimate price-to-quality ratio product in its class. For an Indian audiophile looking to build a serious separates system around a long-term preamplifier platform, the PRE35 is a clear and well-validated choice.

Key Features

• Fully balanced preamplification circuitry; four-layer main board
• 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
• Modular design: accepts DM36 DAC and SM35 Prisma modules
• Home cinema surround passthrough mode
• C25 multi-product IR system remote included
• RS232 outboard control; 12V trigger; 3.5mm IR in/out
• Full-size 35 Series chassis: 430 x 106 x 420mm; 11.3kg
• Available in black or titanium
• Stereophile Class A Recommended Component 2023, 2024, 2025; Diapason D'Or France 2025; Audiograde Best of 2025

Warranty:

1-year manufacturer's warranty

Why Consider the Primare PRE35

The PRE35 is the right choice for listeners who want a serious balanced preamplifier at the centre of a high-performance separates system, with the option to add DAC and streaming capability without changing the hardware. Its fully balanced circuit topology and four-layer signal board deliver the kind of transparency and low noise floor that reveal the full quality of an upstream source and the full capability of a downstream power amplifier. Paired with the A35.2, it forms what Audiograde called a no-holds-barred amplifier combination. With a DM36 module fitted, it becomes one of the most complete balanced streaming preamplifiers available at this price, as Stereophile's Class A listing confirms. The open module slot makes the PRE35 a component worth building a system around for the long term.

Ideal for

• Separates system builders wanting a balanced preamplifier to partner the A35.2 power amplifier
• Listeners who want to start analogue and add DAC and streaming via modules later
• Systems with multiple analogue sources requiring dual XLR and three RCA inputs
• Those building a full 35 Series Primare system with CD35 Prisma, DD35, R35, and A35.2
• 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 PRE35 Modular Preamplifier
• C25 IR Remote Control
• Power Cable
• Quick Start Guide and Safety Documentation

Technical Specifications