Primare CD35

Primare CD35 – the best CD player Primare has ever made, with optional Prisma streaming

Swedish precision and modular future-proofing

The Primare CD35 is built around a professional TEAC 5020A-AT CD transport and an 8-channel ESS Sabre ES9028PRO DAC with 32-bit processing. Since the design is modular, the CD35 is available as a pure CD player or as a complete CD and network player — the latter when fitted with the optional SM35 Prisma streaming module. Consequently, the CD35 is a future-proof investment: the Prisma module can be added at any time without returning the player to the factory. Above all, every component — transport, DAC, output stage — is designed to work together in balance, delivering what Primare describes as the best digital music player they have ever made.

TEAC transport and ESS Sabre DAC — the heart of the CD35

The TEAC 5020A-AT transport delivers a jitter-free digital signal to the ESS Sabre ES9028PRO DAC — the same chipset found in studio monitors and reference DACs. As a result, the CD35 supports PCM up to 384 kHz and DSD128, with a dynamic range of 129 dB and an SNR of 110 dB. Since the analogue output stage uses discrete components throughout, coloration is minimised and signal transparency is maximised. Furthermore, both unbalanced RCA and balanced XLR outputs are provided — the XLR delivering 4.4 V RMS for use with the most demanding preamplifiers.

CD35 Prisma — streaming added to the best of CD

With the SM35 Prisma streaming module installed, the CD35 becomes a complete network music player. Since AirPlay, Bluetooth, Spotify Connect, Chromecast built-in and Roon Ready are all supported, virtually every streaming service is consequently available directly. Wi-Fi and Ethernet provide flexible network connectivity, and the rear USB-A input furthermore accepts PCM up to 192 kHz and DSD128 from a connected storage device. The Prisma app for iOS and Android allows control of all sources — CD, streaming and local files — from a single interface.

Scandinavian design and modular architecture

At 10.8 kg the CD35 reflects the scale of its internal construction, moreover contributing to vibration control and mechanical stability. The timeless Scandinavian aesthetic is available in black and titanium. Since Primare has been designing and assembling in Sweden for over forty years, build quality and longevity are above all central to every product decision. The CD35 has consequently received an EISA Award and a What Hi-Fi? Award — confirming its exceptional value at its price point.

Specifications

• Type: CD player with optional Prisma streaming module
• CD transport: TEAC 5020A-AT, jitter-free
• DAC: 8-channel ESS Sabre ES9028PRO, 32-bit
• PCM: up to 384 kHz / 32-bit
• DSD: up to DSD128
• Dynamic range: 129 dB
• SNR: 110 dB
• Outputs: RCA unbalanced, XLR balanced (4.4 V RMS), optical digital, coaxial digital
• USB-A input: PCM 192kHz / DSD128
• Volume control: variable or fixed (switchable)
• Streaming (with SM35 Prisma): AirPlay, Bluetooth, Spotify Connect, Chromecast, Roon Ready, WiSA, Wi-Fi, Ethernet
• Weight: 10.8 kg
• Finishes: black, titanium
• Origin: Sweden

Frequently asked questions about the Primare CD35

What is the difference between the CD35 and the CD35 Prisma?

The CD35 is a pure CD player with ESS Sabre DAC and discrete output stage. The CD35 Prisma is the same player with the SM35 Prisma streaming module installed — consequently adding AirPlay, Bluetooth, Spotify Connect, Chromecast, Roon Ready and Wi-Fi. Since the Prisma module can moreover be added to a standard CD35 at any time, upgrading later is straightforward.

Can the Primare CD35 be used as a preamplifier?

Yes — since the volume control is switchable between variable and fixed output, and the balanced XLR output delivers 4.4 V RMS, the CD35 consequently connects directly to a power amplifier. An external preamplifier is therefore not required for a system using CD or streaming as the sole source.

Is the Primare CD35 Roon Ready?

Yes — but only with the SM35 Prisma streaming module installed. Without the Prisma module, the CD35 is a pure CD player without network capabilities.