The factor ‘Jaap’ (2)

It is time for the ultimate test. We take the Primare R35 and the Music Hall/Iseki combination to the studio where the reference system is located. We play a number of testtracks and also some other records, including Moloko and Massive Attack. Maybe it’s best if we let Jaap speak for himself here:

This is sincerely the first time I hear vinyl playing properly on this system (ed: the reference set). It’s impressive how neutral and ‘silent’ this Primare plays with the Music Hall. No hum, noise or other misery. Just music.

When I switch between the streamer and the vinyl setup I notice that not so much the tonal balance or detail changes. It’s mainly the focus and imaging. The streamer focuses a bit sharper, but the vinyl seems to play a bit ‘bigger’ and more spatial. Streaming seems more precise. But to be honest: I like both set-ups very much. And both play music. Compliments for this Primare; very nice pre-amp.

The R35 is the first phono preamp that we have tested where Jaap was really excited. Especially the soundstage, dynamics and detailing are special. And incomparable with digital. That’s what we mean positively. There is liveliness, musicality and ‘balls’ combined with nuance, overview and detail. Wow.

We owe a lot of thanks for this review to Alpha reader and vinyl connoisseur Adri, from whom we could use some nice turntables.

Conclusion

With the R35 Primare proves that a top notch product does not have to cost a fortune. What a fantastic sounding preamp for your turntable! Your vinyl will sound better no matter which element you connect to it. You get detail, musicality, dynamics, soundstage, in short, everything that makes music. The R35 allows you to fine-tune it in detail and that's something that will reward you everytime you play music. We are going to use this Primare R35 as a reference phono preamp and that of course includes an Alpha Approved predicate. Bra gjort, Primare!