Primare CD35 Modular CD Player

The Primare CD35 is a CD player that embodies precision, craftsmanship, and a dedication to pure audio fidelity. Each component — from the dedicated TEAC CD drive to the advanced DAC and output stage — is expertly designed to work in harmony, delivering a level of clarity and depth that sets the CD35 apart as Primare’s finest CD player yet.

Key Features of the Primare CD35

• Dedicated TEAC CD Transport: Jitter-free digital output for precise, uninterrupted playback.
• Eight-Channel ESS Sabre DAC: Converts digital signals with exceptional accuracy and depth, delivering a rich analog sound.
• Modular Expansion: Compatible with the Prisma SM35 module for added network connectivity and multi-room playback.
• Elegant Scandinavian Design: Simple, refined aesthetics with thoughtfully crafted controls for an intuitive user experience.

advanced Technology

At the heart of the CD35 lies a specialized TEAC CD drive, providing a jitter-free digital signal to a highly sophisticated DAC stage. Utilizing an eight-channel ESS Sabre chipset, this DAC transforms the digital signal into a rich, nuanced analog sound that brings out every detail in your favorite music. The finely tuned output stage then ensures pristine delivery, making each listening session a memorable experience.

Modular Design for Future Expansion

The CD35’s modular design offers flexibility with the option to add Primare’s Prisma network connectivity module (SM35), providing wireless control and streaming capabilities at any time. This modularity extends across the Primare lineup, allowing the CD35 to seamlessly integrate with other modular components like the I25 or I35 integrated amplifiers. Whether upgrading now or down the line, the CD35 is designed to adapt, making it an investment in both sound and system compatibility.

Scandinavian Design: Balance and Simplicity

True to Primare’s Scandinavian roots, the CD35 combines minimalist aesthetics with intuitive functionality. Every detail, from the tactility of the control buttons to the balanced proportions of its design, embodies the Swedish philosophy of “lagom”—not too much, not too little. Crafted with elegance and purpose, the CD35 enhances not only your listening experience but also the ambiance of your space.

ESS Sabre ES9028PRO DAC Stage

The digital-to-analog conversion in the CD35 is handled by the ESS Sabre ES9028PRO, a 32-bit, eight-channel PRO series DAC chip that Primare runs in double-differential mode with four DAC channels dedicated to each stereo channel. This configuration delivers a dynamic range of 129dB and total harmonic distortion plus noise (THD+N) of -120dB, figures that place the CD35's conversion stage among the finest in its class. The DAC receives a jitter-free digital signal from the dedicated TEAC CD 5020A-AT transport, and the carefully tuned analog output stage ensures that the converted signal reaches your amplifier with a clean 2.2 VRMS output level. Signal-to-noise ratio measures 110dB, and frequency response extends flat from 20Hz to 20kHz.

CD35 Power Supply and Build Quality

Like all components in Primare's 35 Series, the CD35 features a custom linear power supply that provides clean, stable power to both the transport and DAC sections. A separate switch-mode standby supply handles low-power duties and is automatically disabled during playback to prevent any switching artifacts from reaching the audio circuits. Power consumption sits at less than 19W during operation and just 0.35W in standby. The full-width chassis measures 430 x 385 x 106mm and weighs a substantial 10.8kg, reflecting the quality of the internal components and the rigidity of the enclosure. Available in black or titanium finishes, the CD35 matches the visual language of the entire 35 Series lineup, including the I35 integrated amplifier, PRE35 preamplifier, and A35 power amplifiers.

System Control and Integration

The CD35 offers comprehensive system control options that make it easy to integrate into both simple and sophisticated setups. An RS232 port provides outboard system control for custom installation environments, while 3.5mm IR input/output jacks allow for discrete infrared routing through walls or equipment racks. The 12V trigger input/output (also 3.5mm) enables automatic power-on and standby synchronization with other Primare components. The included C25 remote provides direct control, and adding the optional Prisma SM35 module brings network streaming, app-based control through the Prisma app, and access to services including Chromecast built-in, AirPlay, Bluetooth, and Spotify Connect. Both fixed and variable analog output modes are available, letting the CD35 serve as either a dedicated source component or as a combined source and volume controller for powered speakers.

Primare CD35 & DD35 Video

Primare's Terry Medalen presents the CD35 modular CD player and DD35 CD transport, highlighting the state-of-the-art TEAC drive, reference balanced DAC stage, and how the optional Prisma module transforms the CD35 into a complete digital source.

Explore More Primare Products

Complete your 35 Series system with these companion components:

• Primare I35
• Primare PRE35
• Primare A35.2
• Primare A35.8
• Primare R35
• Primare DD35
• Primare CD15 Prisma

The Listening Room Difference

We're a third-generation family business with a brick-and-mortar showroom in Chestertown, Maryland, and a reputation built on trust, not hype. Whether you're visiting in person or ordering online, we bring decades of experience, personalized service, and honest guidance to every interaction. We don't just ship boxes. We help build systems, answer your questions like real humans, and make sure every detail of your setup is right, from the cables to the final connection.

Primare CD35 Specifications