PRIMARE Pre35 Prisma black, Pre35 Prisma titanium PRE35-Prisma-User-Guide.pdf

P R E 3 5 P R I S M A P R E A M P L I F I E R

User Guide

CAUTION

TO REDUCE THE RISK OF FIRE, REPLACE WITH THE
SAME TYPE AND RATING OF FUSE.

ATTENTION

UTILISER UN FUSIBLE DE RECHANGE MÊME TYPE.

Safety compliance

This product has been designed to meet the IEC 60065
international electrical safety standard.

CAUTION

RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK DO NOT OPEN

ATTENTION

RISQUE DE CHOC ELECTRIQUE NE PAS OUVRIR

The lightning flash with an arrowhead symbol within an





CAUTION: To reduce the risk of electrical shock do not
remove cover (or back). No user serviceable parts inside.
Refer servicing to qualified service personnel.

WARNING:

do not expose this apparatus to rain or moisture.

CAUTION:

shock, match the wide blade of the plug to the wide slot
in the socket and insert the plug fully into the socket.

This product is designed and manufactured to meet strict
quality and safety standards. However, you should be aware
of the following installation and operation precautions.

equilateral triangle, is intended to alert the user to the
presence of uninsulated 'dangerous voltage' within the
product's enclosure that may be of sufficient magnitude
to constitute a risk of electric shock to persons.

The exclamation point within an equilateral triangle is

intended to alert the user to the presence of important
operating and maintenance (servicing) instructions in
the literature accompanying the product.

To reduce the risk of fire or electrical shock,

In Canada and the USA, to prevent electric

1. Take heed of warnings & instructions

You should read all the safety and operating instructions
before operating this appliance. Retain this handbook
for future reference and adhere to all warnings in the
handbook or on the appliance.

2. Water and moisture

The presence of electricity near water can be dangerous.

Do not use the appliance near water – for example next to
a bathtub, washbowl, kitchen sink, in a wet basement or
near a swimming pool, etc.

3. Object or liquid entry

Take care that objects do not fall and liquids are not spilled
into the enclosure through any openings. Liquid-filled objects
such as vases should not be placed on the equipment.

4. Ventilation

Do not place the equipment on a bed, sofa, rug or similar
soft surface, or in an enclosed bookcase or cabinet, since
ventilation may be impeded. We recommend a minimum
distance of 50mm around the sides and top of the
appliance to provide adequate ventilation.

5. Heat

Locate the appliance away from naked flames or heat
producing equipment such as radiators, stoves or other
appliances (including other amplifiers) that produce heat.

6. Climate

The appliance has been designed for use in moderate
climates.

7. Racks and stands

Only use a rack or stand that is recommended for use with
audio equipment. If the equipment is on a portable rack it
should be moved with great care, to avoid overturning the
combination.

8. Cleaning

Unplug the unit from the mains supply before cleaning.
The case should normally only require a wipe with a soft,

damp, lint-free cloth. Do not use paint thinners or other
chemical solvents for cleaning.

We do not advise the use of furniture cleaning sprays or
polishes as they can cause indelible white marks if the unit
is subsequently wiped with a damp cloth.

9. Power sources

This appliance must be connected to a mains socket
outlet using the supplied power cord. To disconnect
this apparatus from power, you must disconnect the
power cord. Make sure the power cord is always easily
accessible.

Only connect the appliance to a power supply of the type

described in the operating instructions or as marked on
the appliance.

This is a Class 1 device and must be earthed.
The power switch is a single-pole switch. When the switch

is in the “Off” position, the appliance is not completely
disconnected from the main power.

10. Power-cord protection

Power supply cords should be routed so that they are not
likely to be walked on or pinched by items placed upon
or against them, paying particular attention to cords and
plugs, and the point where they exit from the appliance.

11. Grounding

Ensure that the grounding means of the appliance is not
defeated.

12. Power lines

Locate any outdoor antenna/aerial away from power lines.

13. Non-use periods

If the unit has a stand-by function, a small amount of
current will continue to flow into the equipment in this
mode. Unplug the power cord of the appliance from the
outlet if left unused for a long period of time.

14. Abnormal smell

If an abnormal smell or smoke is detected from the
appliance, turn the power off immediately and unplug the
unit from the wall outlet. Contact your dealer immediately.

15. Servicing

You should not attempt to service the appliance beyond
that described in this handbook. All other servicing should
be referred to qualified service personnel.

16. Damage requiring service

The appliance should be serviced by qualified service
personnel when:

A. the power-supply cord or the plug has been damaged, or
B. objects have fallen, or liquid has spilled into the

appliance, or
C. the appliance has been exposed to rain, or
D. the appliance does not appear to operate normally or

exhibits a marked change in performance, or
E. the appliance has been dropped or the enclosure

damaged.

PRE35 Prisma Preamplifier User Guide2

2.4G and 5G FCC Statements

This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules.
Operation is subject to the following two conditions:

1. This device may not cause harmful interference, and

2. This device must accept any interference received,
including interference that may cause undesired
operation.

Cet appareil est conforme à la section 15 des
réglementations de la FCC. Le fonctionnement de
l’appareil est sujetaux deux conditions suivantes :

1. cet appareil ne doit pas provoquer d’interférences
néfastes, et

2. cet appareil doit tolérer les interférences reçues,
y compris celles qui risquent de provoquer un
fonctionnement indésirable.

Note: This product has been tested and found to comply
with the limits for a Class B digital device, pursuant to Part
15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide
reasonable protection against harmful interference in a
residential installation. This product generates, uses, and
can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed
and used in accordance with the instructions, may cause
harmful interference to radio communications. However,
there is no guarantee that interference will not occur in a
particular installation. If this product does cause harmful
interference to radio or television reception, which can be
determined by turning the equipment off and on, the user
is encouraged to try to correct the interference by one or
more of the following measures:

• Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.

• Increase the separation between the equipment and
receiver.

• Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit
different from that to which the receiver is connected.

• Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV
technician for help.

Please take attention that changes or modification
not expressly approved by the party responsible for
compliance could void the user’s authority to operate the
equipment.

This equipment should be installed and operated with a
minimum distance 20cm between the radiator and your
body.

Cet équipement doit être installé et utilisé à une distance
minimale de 20 cm entre le radiateur et votre corps.

This device complies with Industry Canada licence-exempt
RSS standard(s). Operation is subject to the following two
conditions:

1. this device may not cause interference, and

2. this device must accept any interference, including
interference that may cause undesired operation of the
device.

Le présent appareil est conforme aux CNR d’Industrie
Canada applicables aux appareils radioexempts de
licence. L’exploitation est autorisée aux deux conditions
suivantes :

1. l’appareil ne doit pas produire de brouillage, et

2. l’utilisateur de l’appareil doit accepter tout brouillage
radioélectrique subi, même si le brouillage est
susceptible d’en compromettre le fonctionnement.

Under Industry Canada regulations, this radio transmitter
may only operate using an antenna of a type and
maximum (or lesser) gain approved for the transmitter by
Industry Canada. To reduce potential radio interference
to other users, the antenna type and its gain should be so
chosen that the equivalent isotropically radiated power
(e.i.r.p.) is not more than that necessary for successful
communication.

Conformément à la réglementation d’Industrie Canada,
le présent émetteur radio peut fonctionner avec une
antenne d’un type et d’un gain maximal (ou inférieur)
approuvé pour l’émetteur par Industrie Canada. Dans le
but de réduire les risques de brouillage radioélectrique
à l’intention des autres utilisateurs, il faut choisir le type
d’antenne et son gain de sorte que la puissance isotrope
rayonnée équivalente (p.i.r.e.) ne dépasse pas l’intensité
nécessaire à l’établissement d’une communication
satisfaisante.

The CE symbol indicates that this Primare product
complies with the EMC (Electromagnetic Compatibility)
and LVD (Low Voltage Directive) standards of the
European Community.

The WEEE symbol indicates this Primare product complies
with the European Parliament and Council Directive
2002/96/EC concerning Waste Electrical and Electronic
Equipment (WEEE). This product must be appropriately
recycled or processed in accordance with these directives.
Consult your local waste disposal authority for guidance.

The RoHS symbol indicates that Primare products are
designed and manufactured to comply with the Restriction
of Hazardous Substances (RoHS) as stated in the European
Parliament and Council Directive 2002/95/EC.

Copyright and acknowledgments

Copyright © 2018 Primare AB.
All rights reserved.

Primare AB
Limstensgatan 7
21616 Limhamn
Sweden

http://www.primare.net
Issue: PRE35Prisma/2 (20/11/2018)
The information in this guide is believed to be correct as

of the date of publication. However, our policy is one of
continuous development and so the information is subject
to change without notice, and does not represent a
commitment on the part of Primare AB.

Primare is a trademark of Primare AB.
This guide was produced by

Human-Computer Interface Ltd.
http://www.interface.co.uk

PRE35 Prisma Preamplifier User Guide 3

PRE35 Prisma Preamplifier User Guide4

CONTENTS

Welcome! 6

Getting Started 7

1 Unpack the PRE35 7

2 Connect to a power amplifier 7

3 Connect inputs 7

4 Connect the antennae 8

5 Connect power 8

6 Connect to a network 8

Back-panel connections 9

Using the remote control 10

Selecting PRE35 mode 10

Fitting the batteries 10

Using the PRE35 11

Front panel controls 11

Changing the volume 11

Configuring the settings 15

Using the settings menus 15

INPUT SETTINGS 15

AUDIO SETTINGS 16

GENERAL SETTINGS 16

STREAMING SETTINGS 17

NETWORK SETTINGS 17

Technical specification 18

Analogue inputs 18

Analogue outputs 18

Digital inputs 18

Digital output 18

Wireless output 18

Performance 18

Network 18

General 18

Selecting a source 11

Changing the display brightness 11

Controlling streaming 11

Connecting direct sources 12

Playing music from a drive or music server 13

Streaming music from a phone, tablet, or PC 14

Additional information 19

Phase 19

Burn-in 19

RS232 and trigger 19

Using the PRE35 with a DD35 19

Error messages 19

Factory reset 19

Network troubleshooting 19

Spotify Connect 19

Index 21

PRE35 Prisma Preamplifier User Guide 5

WELCOME!

Congratulations on selecting your new
PRE35 Prisma Preamplifier

This user guide describes the features and explains how
to set up the preamplifier for the best sound quality and
ease of operation in order to allow for the most enjoyable
reproduction of sound from all your sources.

For additional support and assistance please contact your
local authorized Primare dealer, or visit our website at
www.primare.net.

6

PRE35 Prisma Preamplifier User Guide

GETTING STARTED

1 Unpack the PRE35

Your PRE35 is supplied with:

This User Guide

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The Chromecast built-in Quick Start Guide

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Mains cable

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IR cable

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Trigger cable

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Antennas for Bluetooth and Wi-Fi

l

C25 remote control with batteries

l

AC Polarity Pen

l

If any of these items are missing please contact your
supplier. We recommend you retain the packaging in
case you need to transport the unit at a later date.

Note that the PRE35 is supplied with a protective film on
the display glass. Remove the film for a clearer whiter
display.

2 Connect to a power amplifier

The PRE35 is designed to be connected to a power
amplifier with either balanced or unbalanced inputs.

If the power amplifier provides balanced inputs, such as
the Primare A35.2:

Connect the PRE2 or PRE3 L and R outputs from the

l

PRE35 to the L and R balanced inputs in the power
amplifier, using high quality XLR cables.

If the power amplifier only provides unbalanced inputs:

Connect the PRE1 L and R outputs from the PRE35 to

l

the L and R inputs on the power amplifier, using high
quality RCA cables.

Fixed-level analogue output

The PRE35 also provides a fixed-level analogue output
on the LINE output on RCA connectors, to allow you to
connect to active speakers or an analogue recorder.

Digital output

The PRE35 also provides a coax digital output on an RCA
connector.

3 Connect inputs

You can connect up to two balanced sources, up to three
unbalanced sources, and up to six digital sources to the
inputs on the back panel.

Balanced inputs

Connect balanced sources, such as the Primare CD35

l

CD player, to balanced inputs A1 and A2 using high
quality XLR cables.

Unbalanced inputs

Connect unbalanced sources to the unbalanced inputs

l

A3, A4, and A5 using high quality RCA cables.

Digital inputs

Connect digital optical sources to the digital optical

l

inputs D6 to D9 using optical cables.
Connect digital coax sources to the digital coax inputs

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D10 and D11 using digital RCA cables.

You can also connect a USB flash drive to the USB-A
input, and a PC or Mac to the USB-B input to use the
PRE35 as an audio output device for your computer. For
more information see

OR MUSIC SERVER

PLAYING MUSIC FROM A DRIVE

, page 13.

PRE35 Prisma Preamplifier User Guide

Streaming

You can also stream music wirelessly to the PRE35 from a
mobile phone, tablet, computer, or other Prisma product
via Bluetooth or Wi-Fi, or via a wired Ethernet connection.
For more information see

PHONE, TABLET, OR PC

STREAMING MUSIC FROM A

, page 14.

7

4 Connect the antennae

Connect the two antennae supplied with the PRE35 to

l

the ANT 1 and ANT 2 sockets on the back panel, and
position the two antennae at a slight angle from the
vertical.

One antenna is for Bluetooth connectivity, and the other
one is for Wi-Fi connectivity.

5 Connect power

Plug one end of the mains cable supplied with the

l

PRE35 into the power connector on the back panel,
and connect the other end to a wall socket.

If this cable is not suitable for your power outlets please
contact your supplier for an alternative cable.

Note: See
the best sound from your PRE35.



l

To switch on from standby

l

The display shows:

Phase

, page 19, for information about getting

WARNING: Always disconnect the PRE35

from the mains power before connecting or
disconnecting any cables.

Switch on the PRE35, using the switch on the back
panel.

Press O on the front panel or remote control.

6 Connect to a network

For best results we recommend connecting via cable.

To connect via an Ethernet cable

Connect an Ethernet cable between your router and the

l

LAN socket on the back panel of the PRE35.

When the PRE35 is ready to set up the network the
display will show:

Configure network

Install the free Google Home app on your mobile

l

device.
Run Google Home.

l

It will display New device found, PRE35.

Click SET UP and follow the instructions.

l

After playing a test sound you will be prompted to select a
name for your PRE35.

You will now be able to stream music to your PRE35.

To disconnect from the Ethernet network

Remove the Ethernet cable.

l

To connect via Wi-Fi

When the PRE35 is ready to set up the network the
display will show:

Setup mode

Make sure Bluetooth and Wi-Fi are enabled on your

l

mobile device.
Install the free Google Home app on your mobile device.

l

Run Google Home.

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It will display New device found, PRE35.

Click SET UP and follow the instructions.

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After playing a test sound you will be prompted to
connect to your home Wi-Fi network.

Select your Wi-Fi network and enter the password.

l

You will now be able to stream music to your PRE35.

To disconnect from the Wi-Fi network

Either:

Select Wi-Fi settings for the PRE35 in the Google Home

l

app.
Select Forget this network.

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Or:

Reset the PRE35 to its factory defaults; see Factory

l

reset, page 19.

PRIMARE

8

PRE35 Prisma Preamplifier User Guide

BACK-PANEL CONNECTIONS

R

LR L

PRE1

PRE2 PRE3

ANALOG OUT

ANT1

LAN IN

LAN OUT

CON

USB

ANT2

SPS

Unbalanced

analogue inputs

Analogue

outputs

IR

in/out

TriggerRS232

Balanced

analogue inputs

Power and

fuse

On/off

LAN

connections

Optical

digital inputs

Coax

digital inputs

Balanced

analogue outputs

Digital

output

USB-B

input

USB-A

input

Network

status

WiSA

transmitter

SPS

button

and status

The following diagram explains the function of each of the
connectors on the back panel:

PRE35 Prisma Preamplifier User Guide

9

Switch between on and standby
Press and hold to switch all
Primare products to standby

Step between dim levels

Navigate right in settings menus or
select next input

Increase the volume,
or navigate up in settings menus

Reduce the volume,
or navigate down in settings menus

Next/previous track in stream

In the settings menus navigates back
or cancels editing a setting

Press briefly to

mute the sound

Press and hold to

show network info

Select item in settings menus

Navigate left in settings menus or

select previous input

Select remote mode.

Press twice to select

device on second line

Decrease the volume

Play/pause stream

Increase the volume

Display the front panel settings menus

Pause stream

Indicators light when

pressing a button

Top: AMP, PRE, or CD mode

Bottom: AV, SC, or AUX mode

Select an input

USING THE REMOTE CONTROL

Selecting PRE35 mode

The remote control can operate any associated Primare
products you have in your system.

To make the remote control operate the PRE35

Press the PRE AUX button once.

l

To make the remote control operate another product

Press the AMP AV, CD SC, or PRE AUX button as

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appropriate.

Press once to select the product on the top line of the
button, or twice to select the product on the second line.

The indicators at the top of the remote control light when
pressing a button to show which mode the remote control
is in.

Fitting the batteries

Before using the remote control you need to insert the two
AAA cells supplied with the C25.

Open the cover on the back of the remote control by

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pressing the back cover gently near the centre of the
remote control, and sliding it towards the edge of the
remote control.

Insert the two batteries, with the polarity as indicated

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on the bottom of the battery compartment.
Replace the cover and push until it clips into place.

l



When disposing of old batteries please be considerate to
the environment.

Note: Replace only with 1.5V alkaline cells type

AAA or equivalent.

PRE35 Prisma Preamplifier User Guide10

USING THE PRE35

Front panel controls

Selector

Selects an input. In the settings menus navigates between
settings.

Standby O

Switches the PRE35 to standby, or switches it on from
standby.

Menu @

Displays the settings menus or exits from the menus.

Select R

In the settings menus selects a setting or saves an edited
setting.

Back

In the settings menus navigates back or cancels editing a
setting.

Volume

Changes the volume.

Changing the volume

The PRE35 allows you to vary the volume from 0 (silence)
to 99 (maximum).

To change the volume

Rotate the VOLUME control on the front panel, or press

l

the + or – buttons or the A or V buttons on the remote
control.

The current volume setting is shown on the front panel; for
example:

VOL 28

Selecting a source

The PRE35 provides a choice of 12 inputs. Initially these
are labelled as shown in the following table, but you can
give them your own aliases to suit the sources in your
system; see

Label Description

A1, A2 Balanced analogue on XLR

A3–A5 Unbalanced analogue on RCA

D6–D9 Digital optical on TOS connectors.
D10, D11 Digital coax on RCA connectors.
PC/MAC (12) Digital on USB-B connector.

To select a source

Turn the SELECTOR until the source is indicated on the

l

front panel display; for example:

Alternatively, press the < or > buttons on the remote

l

control to step between sources, or press one of the
buttons 1 to 12 on the remote control to select the
corresponding source directly.

ALIAS

, page 15.

connectors.

connectors.

A1

Changing the display brightness

To change the front panel display brightness

Press the DIM button on the remote control to step

l

through the three levels of illumination and blank.

If you turn the display off it will be restored briefly when
you operate any control.

The display automatically dims after ten minutes; you can
adjust this delay in the settings menus; see

SETTINGS

, page 16.

GENERAL

Controlling streaming

When streaming music to the PRE35 you can control
playback from the front panel or the remote control.

To select the next or previous track

Press the R button on the front panel.

l

The track name will be highlighted on the display:

Rihanna 20

Kiss it Better

AirPlay 0:09 WiFi

Rotate the SELECTOR control on the front panel to step

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between tracks.
Press the R button again to stop using the SELECTOR

l

control to select tracks.

You can also step between tracks using the [ or ]
buttons on the remote control.

To pause playback

Press the >= button on the remote control.

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Press the >= button again to resume playback.
For more information about streaming see

MUSIC FROM A PHONE, TABLET, OR PC

PRE35 Prisma Preamplifier User Guide 11

STREAMING

, page 14.

PRE35

WiSA Loudspeakers

Power Amplifier

Digital optical source

Digital optical cable

Digital coax source

Digital coax cable

XLR cable XLR cable

Phono RCA cable

Balanced analogue
source

Unbalanced analogue
source

USB-A to USB-B cable

PC/Mac

CONNECTING DIRECT SOURCES

These methods of playing music from the PRE35 involve
connecting the source to the PRE35 via a cable, and don’t
require Wi-Fi, Ethernet, or Bluetooth.

To play music from a source

Connect the source via a suitable cable:

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Balanced analogue XLR cable
Unbalanced analogue Phono RCA cable
Digital optical source Digital optical cable
Digital source Digital coax cable

Select the source from the front panel, or using the

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remote control.

If you have a phone or tablet on the same Wi-Fi network
as the PRE35 you can also use the Prisma app to select
and control sources.

To use the PRE35 as a PC/Mac sound output device

Connect the Mac or PC to the PRE35 via a USB-A to

l

USB-B cable.

PC

Windows 7, 8, 8.1, or 10 (32/64-bit) is required. You
need to install the Primare xmos audio driver, available on
primare.net.

Macintosh

OSX 10.4 or later is recommended. No driver is required.

Connect the computer’s USB port to the USB B input on

l

the PRE35 using a USB A to USB B cable.

The PRE35 will then appear as a sound output device
called PRE35 in the Sound control panel (PC) or Sound
system preferences panel (Macintosh).

Select the PC/MAC source on the PRE35.

l

Select the PRE35 as the sound output device in the

l

Mac Sound system preferences panel or the PC Sound
control panel.

PRE35 Prisma Preamplifier User Guide12

PLAYING MUSIC FROM A DRIVE OR MUSIC SERVER

PRE35

Power Amplifier

WiSA Loudspeakers

Music server

Hard drive

Router

You can play audio files from a USB flash drive, external
USB hard disk, or a network drive. These options are
ideal if you already have a digital library of CDs or music
files.

On a USB flash drive or USB hard disk the files can be
organised into folders, giving you one way of classifying
your music; eg by Artist.

On a NAS drive you have the option of running a media
server program, which will catalogue your music library
and give you the option of organising it in different ways;
eg by Artist, Genre, Album, or Composer. One free
option is MinimServer; see http://minimserver.com/.

To play audio files from a USB flash drive or hard
drive

Connect the USB drive to the USB-A input on the

l

PRE35.

The USB drive can contain folders and music files in any
of the popular formats; see
page 18, for details.

Use the Prisma app to browse, play, and control the

l

music.

TECHNICAL SPECIFICATION

To play audio files from a NAS (network) drive

Connect the NAS drive to the same network as the

l

PRE35.

The NAS drive can either contain folders and music files
in any of the popular formats, or it can run a music server.
See

,

TECHNICAL SPECIFICATION

the supported file formats.

Use the Prisma app to browse, play, and control the

l

music.

Alternatively you can select and play music from a Mac
or PC using a music server program such as JRiver or
Foobar2000.

, page 18, for details of

PRE35 Prisma Preamplifier User Guide 13

PRE35

Power Amplifier

WiSA Loudspeakers

Internet music

services

Router

Ethernet cable

PC/Mac

STREAMING MUSIC FROM A PHONE, TABLET, OR PC

The PRE35 can use Chromecast to connect directly to a
music service that supports Chromecast, such as Spotify,
Deezer, Tidal, or TuneIn Radio. The music is streamed
direct to the PRE35; once set up you can use your phone
to make calls, or play other audio.

With a phone, tablet, or Mac/PC you can also play the
audio wirelessly to the PRE35, using Bluetooth or AirPlay
(iOS only), so the sound from any apps you run on your
device will be played through the PRE35.

Although you can stream music over Wi-Fi, for best
results connect the PRE35 to your home router via an
Ethernet cable. If necessary, use the Google Home app to
configure the network settings on your PRE35.

To stream using Chromecast

The PRE35 has Chromecast built-in, which means you
can stream (cast) music over your network directly to the
PRE35 from any Chromecast supported music service,
using the music service’s app on your desktop or mobile
device as a controller.

Click the Cast button within your music service’s app

l

and select the PRE35 in the device list.

To stream using AirPlay

Use AirPlay to send audio over the network from your
Apple device to the PRE35. AirPlay is only available on
Apple devices.

To stream using Bluetooth

Use Bluetooth to send audio directly to the PRE35 from
your Bluetooth device using Bluetooth connection. You
don’t need a network to stream using Bluetooth.

To stream using Spotify Connect

The PRE35 supports Spotify Connect, which means you
can stream music directly to the PRE35 from the Spotify
music service over your network, using the Spotify app on
your desktop or mobile device as a controller.

Here are Spotify’s instructions:

Listen out loud with Spotify Connect

1. Connect the PRE35 to your wifi network.

2. Open up the Spotify app on your phone, tablet or
laptop using the same wifi network.

3. Play a song and select Devices Available.

4. Select the PRE35 and start listening.

PRE35 Prisma Preamplifier User Guide14

CONFIGURING THE SETTINGS

Using the settings menus

You can view and change the PRE35 settings from the
front panel, remote control, or using the Prisma app.

To display the settings menu

Press the @ button on the front panel, or the MENU

l

button on the remote control.

The settings menu is displayed:

PRE35 SETTINGS 20
INPUT

AUDIO
GENERAL

To step between settings

Turn the SELECTOR control on the front panel, or press

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the A or V buttons on the remote control.

The current setting is shown highlighted.

To change a setting

Press the R button on the front panel, or the SELECT

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button on the remote control.

The current value is shown highlighted.

Turn the SELECTOR control on the front panel, or press

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the A or V buttons on the remote control, to change
the value of the setting.

As you change it the new value is shown in the menu.

Press the R button on the front panel, or the SELECT

l

button on the remote control, to save the value you
have set.

To navigate back or cancel editing a setting

Press the button on the front panel or remote

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control.

To exit from the settings menu

Press the @ button on the front panel, or the MENU

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button on the remote control.

INPUT SETTINGS

The INPUT SETTINGS menu allows you to customise the
inputs to suit the sources in your system:

A1 SETTINGS 20
INPUT A1

ALIAS A1
STATUS ENABLED

INPUT

Initially the INPUT SETTINGS shows the settings for the
currently selected input. Alternatively the INPUT option
allows you to step between all the inputs. The subsequent
options will change according to the input.

ALIAS

Allows you to give the source a name; eg RADIO.

Highlight the ALIAS item then press the R button on the

l

front panel, or the SELECT button on the remote control.

The RENAME INPUT menu is displayed:

RENAME INPUT 20
A

Turn the SELECTOR control on the front panel, or press

l

the < or > buttons on the remote control, to select the
first letter.

Press the R button on the front panel, or the SELECT

l

button on the remote control, to select it.

After adding each character you have the options:

ADD NEW CHARACTER

CONFIRM ‘A’

CLEAR ALIAS

where CONFIRM shows the alias you have entered so far.

Select ADD NEW CHARACTER to add the remaining

l

letters, up to a maximum of six characters.

STATUS

Choose between ENABLED (default) or DISABLED to
specify whether the input is enabled.

AUTO SENSE

Choose between: SELECT to automatically select an
input containing an audio signal if the PRE35 is on;

WAKE+SELECT

standby, if necessary, and select an input containing
an audio signal; and OFF (default) to disable automatic
switching.

to automatically wake up the PRE35 from

VOLUME

Choose between VARIABLE (default) or FIXED to specify
whether the input should have variable or fixed gain.

FIXED is 0dB gain, equivalent to volume setting 66, and
will overrule MAXIMUM VOLUME in AUDIO SETTINGS.

Selecting FIXED will show a loud-volume warning. Select

YES

to proceed or NO to cancel the fixed gain setting.

Fixed gain functions as an SSP (Surround Sound Pass­through) allowing the PRE35 to be used as an amplifier in
a multi-channel system setup

INPUT GAIN

Choose between: -30dB to -1dB, 0dB (default), or +1dB to
+30dB to set the gain for the selected input.

If the gain is set too high on an input clipping may occur,
and the message:

DECREASE INPUT GAIN

will be displayed. In this case reduce the gain until the
warning message is not displayed.

Select CONFIRM when you have entered the alias you

l

want.

PRE35 Prisma Preamplifier User Guide 15

AUDIO SETTINGS

The AUDIO SETTINGS menu allows you to customise the
balance and start-up volume, and the maximum and mute
volume.

AUDIO SETTINGS 20
BALANCE 00LR00

STARTUP VOLUME 30
MAXIMUM VOLUME 99

BALANCE

Allows you to adjust the balance between 00LR-9 (far left),
00LR00 (centred, default) and -9LR00 (far right).

STARTUP VOLUME

Sets the general startup volume to between 0 and 60. The
default is 20.

MAXIMUM VOLUME

Sets the maximum volume limit between 0 and 99. The
default is 99.

MUTE VOLUME

Sets the volume when unit is muted. You can choose
between 0 (default) and 30.

GENERAL SETTINGS

The GENERAL SETTINGS menu allows you to configure the
general operation of the PRE35:

GENERAL SETTINGS 20
FRONT PANEL UNLOCKED

AUTO-DIM AFTER 10MIN
LED BRIGHTNESS

SHOW INPUTS

Choose between ALL (default), to show all inputs, or WITH
SIGNAL

, to show only inputs that have a signal.

FRONT PANEL

Choose LOCKED to lock the front panel buttons and
knobs, or UNLOCKED (default) to use them.

To unlock the front panel buttons use the remote control to
select this menu, or remove power from the PRE35 for a
few seconds.

AUTO-DIM

Allows you to choose the delay for dimming the display
after no user interaction, between: AFTER 1MIN, AFTER

5MIN

, AFTER 10MIN (default), or OFF.

The PRE35 is classified as a HiNA (high-network
availability) product. If no audio stream signal is detected
for 20 minutes the unit will automatically go into network
standby mode, in which the power consumption of the
device is <6W. The unit will exit from network standby
mode when audio streaming is detected.

AUTO-STANDBY automatically switches the PRE35 to
standby if there is no user interaction or audio from the
current source for a specified delay: AFTER 10MIN, AFTER

15MIN

, AFTER 20MIN (default), or OFF.

Note: The AUTO-STANDBY function will be disabled if the

network has not been set up.

FACTORY RESET

Resets the PRE35 to the factory default settings.
You are prompted to confirm. Select YES to proceed or

NO to cancel.

FIRMWARE VERSIONS

Displays the FIRMWARE VERSIONS menu to allow you to
view the versions of firmware installed.

If the current volume is lower than the specified MUTE

VOLUME

, the volume will be set to 0 when pressing mute.

DIGITAL OUTPUT

Allows you to choose the sample rate for analogue inputs
on the digital output as 96kHz (default) or 48kHz. For
digital inputs the output format is the same as the input.

LED BRIGHTNESS

Displays the LED BRIGHTNESS menu to allow you to set the
display brightness to between 1 and 5 for each display
dimming level:

DIM HIGH (default 3), DIM MID (default 2), DIM LOW
(default 1), or DIM OFF (default 1).

STANDBY SETTINGS

Displays the STANDBY SETTINGS menu to allow you to
specify the standby settings.

STANDBY MODE can be set to ECO to reduce the standby
consumption to less than 0.5W, but only allows the PRE35
to wake from the analogue and digital inputs, or NORMAL
which also allows the PRE35 to wake from streaming and
the PC/MAC input.

PRE35 Prisma Preamplifier User Guide16

STREAMING SETTINGS

NETWORK SETTINGS

Allows you to configure the PRE35 streaming:

STREAMING SETTINGS 20
METADATA ON

BLUETOOTH SETTINGS
AIRPLAY PASSWORD

METADATA

Allows you to choose ON (default) or OFF to specify
whether metadata, such as the artist name and song title,
should be displayed.

BLUETOOTH SETTINGS

Displays the BLUETOOTH SETTINGS menu.
VISIBLE can be set to ON to make the PRE35 visible to

other Bluetooth devices, or OFF (default) to make the
PRE35 not visible.

Note: VISIBLE allows any Bluetooth-enabled device within
range to discover and pair with your PRE35.

AUTO-CONNECT can be set to ON to automatically
reconnect to a paired mobile Bluetooth device when the
Bluetooth input on the PRE35 is selected, or OFF (default)
to disable automatic connection.

AIRPLAY PASSWORD

Allows you to set an optional password for connection by
AirPlay. Leave empty for no password.

Allows you to configure the network connection:

NETWORK SETTINGS 20
QUICK INFO

QUICK INFO

Shows the NETWORK INFO screen with the following
information:

Connection: one of CONNECTED BY WIFI, CONNECTED

l

BY CABLE
NETWORK, the current SSID.

l

IP, the current IP address.

l

DEVICE NAME, the device name.

l

NET MAC, the network MAC address.

l

BT MAC, the current Bluetooth MAC address.

l

You can also display this information by holding down the
i button on the remote control.

, or NOT CONNECTED.

PRE35 Prisma Preamplifier User Guide 17

TECHNICAL SPECIFICATION

Analogue inputs

Balanced inputs

2 x XLR, 30kΩ impedance

Unbalanced inputs

3 x RCA, 15kΩ impedance

Analogue outputs

Preamplifier output

2x XLR, 380Ω impedance
1 x RCA, 100Ω impedance

Line output

1 x RCA, 100Ω impedance

Digital inputs

4 x Optical/TOSLINK 192kHz/24 bit
2 x RCA 192kHz/24 bit
1 x USB-A up to 192kHz/24 bit; up to DSD128

(5.6MHz)
1 x USB-B up to 768kHz/32 bit; up to DSD256

(11.2MHz)

Digital output

1 x RCA
Analogue input = selectable between 48 or 96kHz
Digital input = native output

Performance

Gain

Preamplifier output: 16.5dB
Line output: 0dB
Speaker output: 42.5dB

Analogue frequency response

20Hz – 20kHz: ±0.1dB

Distortion

THD + N: < 0.002%, 20Hz – 20kHz

Signal to noise

>100dB (AES17 filter)

Network

Connectivity

2 x Ethernet LAN ports
2 x Antennas for Bluetooth and Wi-Fi
LAN: 10/100Mbit Ethernet port
WLAN: IEE 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac compliant; 2.4/5GHz;

b, g, n mode

Audio formats

WAV, LPCM, AIFF, FLAC, ALAC, WMA, OGG:
Up to 192kHz/24bit

MP3, MP4 (AAC):
Up to 48kHz/16bit, VBR & CBR 320kbps

DSD:
Up to DSD128 (5.6MHz)

General

Control

C25 system remote control
RS232
IR in/out
Trigger out

Power Consumption

Off: 0W
Standby (ECO): 0.3W
Standby (NORMAL): 4.6W
Operating: <37W

Dimensions

430 x 420 x 106 mm (w x d x h) with knobs and
connectors

430 x 382 x 106 mm (w x d x h) without knobs and
connectors

Weight

11 kg

Colour

Black or titanium

Wireless output

1x Wireless stereo output using WiSA® technology (future
software upgrade)

Streaming

Airplay®
Bluetooth®
Chromecast built-in®
Spotify Connect®
DLNA/UPnP

PRE35 Prisma Preamplifier User Guide18

Live

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

These instructions help you get the best possible sound
from your PRE35.

Phase

The phase of the AC supply can make a significant
difference to the sound.

Use the Polarity Pen supplied with the PRE35 to verify
which pin is live on your AC power cable.

Ensure that the live pin of the AC power cable is
connected to the left-hand pin of the power connector,
viewed from the back panel:

Burn-in

Your Primare will start to sound best after an initial burn-in
of approximately 24 hours.

You will notice a further smaller improvement in sound
quality for at least another 3 days’ playing.

Using the PRE35 with a DD35

Your PRE35 is an ideal companion to the Primare DD35
CD Transport. For best results link the two products
together as follows using the two cables supplied with the
PRE35:

To connect the trigger cable

The Trigger cable ensures that the DD35 switches on, or
to standby, when you operate the O button on the front

panel of the PRE35.

Connect the Trigger cable from the PRE35 TRIG OUT to

l

the DD35 TRIG IN.

Error messages

The following error messages on the front panel display
indicate an error condition:

DECREASE INPUT GAIN

Clipping has occurred on an input. Decrease the input
gain; see

DC ERROR

Try the following

l

INPUT GAIN

Power off PRE35 and disconnect the speaker
connections.

, page 15.

Factory reset

Press and hold the O standby button on the front panel to
display the main firmware version number.

Press and hold the O standby button on the front panel for
10 seconds to perform a factory reset of the PRE35.

You can also do a factory reset from the Prisma app,
or from the GENERAL SETTINGS menu; see

SETTINGS

, page 166.

GENERAL

Network troubleshooting

Front panel display

The front panel display indicates the type of network
connection:

LAN indicates that you are connected by an Ethernet
cable.

WiFi indicates that you are connected by wireless.

Network status

The CON indicator on the back panel indicates the
network status:

ON Indicates the PRE35 is connected to a network
OFF Indicates no connection to a network

RS232 and trigger

The RS232 input allows you to connect the PRE35 to a
controller system. Use a twisted (null modem) cable. For
more information contact Primare at [e-mail] or
visit www.primare.net.

The Trigger output allows the PRE35 to switch on other
devices, such as a DD35.

PRE35 Prisma Preamplifier User Guide 19

If this solves the problem, check the speaker wiring.
If the problem persists

Power off PRE35 and disconnect all input connections.

l

If this solves the problem, there is a DC offset on one of
the inputs.

If the problem persists

Contact your dealer for service arrangements.

l

Flashing indicates that the network needs to be configured
using the Google Home app.

Spotify Connect

The Spotify Software is subject to third party licenses
found here:

https://beta.developer.spotify.com/private­documentation/esdk-third_party_licenses

PRE35 Prisma Preamplifier User Guide20

INDEX

A

AirPlay, streaming 14
AirPlay password (settings menus) 17
Alias (settings menus) 15
Analogue inputs and outputs 9
Antennae, connecting 8
Audio settings menu 16
Auto-dim (settings menus) 16
Auto sense (settings menus) 15

B

Back panel 9
Balance (settings menus) 16
Balanced inputs 9
Bluetooth, streaming 14
Bluetooth settings (settings menus) 17

C

Chromecast, streaming 14
Clipping 15
Coax inputs 9

F

Factory reset 19
Factory reset (settings menus) 16
Firmware (settings menus) 16
Front panel (settings menus) 16
Front panel controls 11

G

General settings menu 16

H

Hard disk, playing music from 13

I

Input (settings menus) 15
Input gain (settings menus) 15
Inputs, connecting 7
Input settings menu 15
IR input 9

L

LED brightness (settings menus) 16

Menus (continued)

Network settings 17

Streaming settings 17
Metadata (settings menus) 17
Mute volume (settings menus) 16

N

Network, connecting to 8
Network drive, playing music from 13
Network settings menu 17
Network troubleshooting 19
Next track, selecting 11

O

Optical inputs 9

P

Pausing playback 11
PC/Mac sound output device 12
Phase 19
Power, connecting 8

S

Settings menus 15
Show inputs (settings menus) 15, 16
Sources

Connecting 12

Selecting 11
Spotify Connect, streaming 14
Standby settings (settings menus) 16
Startup volume (settings menus) 16
Status (settings menus) 15
Streaming 7, 14

Pausing playback 11

Selecting the next or previous track 11
Streaming settings menus 17

T

Technical specification 18
Trigger outputs 9

U

Unbalanced inputs and outputs 9
USB flash drive, playing music from 7, 13

V

Volume (settings menus) 15

D

Digital inputs and output 9
Digital output (settings menus) 16

M

Maximum volume (settings menus) 16
Menus

Q

Quick info (settings menus) 17

R

Display brightness, changing 11

E

Error messages 19

PRE35 Prisma Preamplifier User Guide 21

Audio settings 16
General settings 16
Input settings 15

Remote control 10

Fitting batteries 10

RS232 input 9, 19

Volume, changing 11

W

Wi-fi, connecting to 8

L I MS T EN S GAT A N 7,

T H E S O U N D A N D V I S I O N O F S C A N D I N A V I A S I N C E 1 9 8 6

2 1 6 1 6 L IM H A M N , S W ED E N

More information at primare.net