Primare R35

Primare R35 – MM/MC phono preamplifier for the finest vinyl systems

Fully symmetrical dual mono circuit

The Primare R35 is the most capable phono preamplifier in the Primare range. Built around a fully symmetrical dual mono circuit with discrete input stages and an RIAA correction network using op-amps, it delivers exceptionally low noise and high signal integrity. A fully shielded toroidal power supply keeps sensitive signal components isolated from interference, consequently the R35 performs well above its price point. The solid aluminium enclosure weighs in at nearly 10 kg and is available in black and titanium — a fitting match for the broader Primare 30 Series.

29 adjustment steps for precise cartridge matching

The Primare R35 offers 29 individual adjustment steps across gain, impedance and capacitance — far beyond what most phono stages at this price provide. MM gain runs from 36 to 50 dB via XLR; MC gain extends from 62 to 76 dB via XLR, thereby covering even the lowest-output moving coil cartridges. MC impedance loading spans 21 steps from 10 Ω to 47 kΩ, allowing precise alignment with manufacturer recommendations. MM capacitance is adjustable across four settings from 100 to 400 pF. All adjustments are made via DIP switches behind covered panels on the rear panel.

RCA and XLR outputs: ideal for balanced systems

The R35 provides both single-ended RCA and balanced XLR outputs, making it equally at home in unbalanced and fully balanced systems. Furthermore, using the XLR output results in measurably lower noise and higher channel separation — an audible advantage when working with low-output MC cartridges. Channel separation is 80 dB at 1 kHz for MM and 77 dB at 1 kHz for MC. THD+N is below 0.02% for MM and below 0.03% for MC across the full 20 Hz to 20 kHz bandwidth.

Scandinavian design: purposeful, minimal and built to last

True to Primare's design philosophy, the R35 is understated to a fault. The standby switch is concealed within the Primare logo on the faceplate — a small but characteristic detail that defines the brand's lagom approach. A 3.5 mm trigger output enables automatic power sequencing with other Primare components. Since the R35 shares the same design language as the I35 and PRE35, it integrates visually and functionally into a complete Primare system with ease.

Specifications

• Type: solid-state MM/MC phono preamplifier
• Analogue input: 1 × RCA (single-ended)
• Analogue outputs: 1 × RCA (single-ended), 1 × XLR (balanced)
• Gain MM (RCA): adjustable 36 / 40 / 44 dB
• Gain MM (XLR): adjustable 42 / 46 / 50 dB
• Gain MC (RCA): adjustable 62 / 66 / 70 dB
• Gain MC (XLR): adjustable 68 / 72 / 76 dB
• Impedance MM: 2.5 kΩ (HO MC) / 47 kΩ (MM)
• Impedance MC: adjustable 10 Ω – 47 kΩ (21 steps)
• Capacitance MM: adjustable 100 / 200 / 300 / 400 pF
• Capacitance MC: adjustable 100 pF / 1 nF
• THD+N MM: <0.02% (20 Hz–20 kHz)
• THD+N MC: <0.03% (20 Hz–20 kHz)
• Channel separation MM: 80 dB at 1 kHz
• Channel separation MC: 77 dB at 1 kHz
• Trigger output: 3.5 mm jack
• Weight: approx. 9.5 kg
• Finish: black or titanium

Frequently asked questions

Is the Primare R35 compatible with both MM and MC cartridges?

Yes. The R35 supports both moving magnet and moving coil cartridges, including designs with very low output voltages. MC gain reaches up to 76 dB via XLR, making it suitable for even the most demanding low-output MC cartridges.

How are the settings adjusted on the Primare R35?

Gain, impedance and capacitance are all set via DIP switches behind covered panels on the rear panel. The supplied user guide includes a reference table with recommended settings for common cartridge types. For those who change cartridges regularly, keeping the guide to hand is advisable.

Does the Primare R35 work with the Primare I35 Prisma?

Yes. The R35 connects directly to the analogue inputs of the I35 Prisma via RCA or XLR. Using the balanced XLR connection makes full use of the I35 Prisma's balanced input stage, resulting in a lower noise floor and higher channel separation compared to a single-ended RCA connection.