Primare CD 35 Compact Disc Player - Black

A CD Player You Can Add To Later

The CD35 is a pure CD player. It reads discs, converts them and sends the result out. There is no app, no network and no screen to learn, because Primare built this one to do a single job completely.

What makes it unusual is that the chassis is modular. Primare's SM35 Prisma module can be fitted later, which turns the same machine into a network player with AirPlay, Chromecast, Bluetooth and Spotify Connect.

Nothing else changes when that happens. The disc mechanism and the converter are already the ones Primare uses in the networked version, so the upgrade adds streaming rather than improving the parts that play your discs.

The Drive and the Converter

The mechanism is a TEAC CD-5020-AAT, a drive built for audio rather than adapted from a computer. Conversion runs on a single ESS Sabre ES9028PRO, which is the chip Primare uses at the top of this range.

Outputs cover both kinds of system. Balanced XLR delivers 4.4 volts RMS from 100 ohms, and unbalanced RCA gives 2.2 volts from 370 ohms. Coaxial and optical digital outputs sit alongside them.

The cabinet is 430mm wide, 385 deep and 106 tall, and weighs 11kg. That weight is structure rather than decoration: a heavy, braced chassis is how a disc drive is kept still enough to read cleanly.

Who Is This CD Player Best For?

• You run a balanced system — 4.4 volts from the XLR outputs at 100 ohms drives a long balanced cable to a distant amplifier without the level sagging.
• You want the disc part done properly first — a TEAC CD-5020-AAT drive and an ES9028PRO converter are the same parts Primare fits to the networked model, so nothing about disc playback is held back.
• You may want streaming one day — the SM35 Prisma module can be added later and brings AirPlay, Chromecast, Bluetooth and Spotify Connect to the machine you already own.
• You are building a Primare system — the CD35 is sized and styled to sit with the I35 and PRE35, so the stack reads as one design rather than three purchases.
• You want mass where it matters — 11kg of braced cabinet keeps the drive steady, which is the difference between a disc read cleanly and one the error correction has to rescue. Pair it with one of our integrated amplifiers.

How Does It Connect to Your System?

Run the balanced XLR outputs to your amplifier if it takes them, or the RCA pair if it is single-ended. The ES9028PRO inside handles the conversion either way.

If you would rather use your own converter, take the coaxial or optical digital output to it instead. The disc data leaves the CD35 untouched on that route.

Pairs Well With

Building around the CD35? Here are some great companions:

• Integrated Amplifier: The I35 is its designed partner — see our Integrated Amplifiers.
• Preamplifier: For a separates system — see our Preamplifiers.
• Interconnects: Balanced XLR keeps the path balanced — see our Interconnect Cables.
• Equipment Rack: Support for an 11kg player — see our Audio Racks.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does it stream or connect to a network?

The CD35 is a disc player. Streaming comes from adding Primare's SM35 Prisma module, which is designed to be fitted to this chassis later.

What does the Prisma module add?

AirPlay, Chromecast built-in, Bluetooth, Spotify Connect and network playback, turning the CD35 into the CD35 Prisma.

Which drive and converter does it use?

A TEAC CD-5020-AAT mechanism and a single ESS Sabre ES9028PRO converter.

What outputs does it have?

Balanced XLR at 4.4 volts RMS from 100 ohms, unbalanced RCA at 2.2 volts from 370 ohms, plus coaxial and optical digital outputs.

How big is it?

430mm wide, 385 deep and 106 tall, weighing 11kg.

What is the warranty?

Two years on parts and labor for the original owner, when bought from an authorized dealer with proof of purchase. It is valid in the country of purchase and does not transfer.

See It in Action

Primare's Terry Medalen introduces the CD35 platform and the optional Prisma module:

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Learn More

Want to learn more about CD players, balanced connections, or adding streaming to a system? Visit our Learning Center for guides, tips, and expert advice.