A35.8 – eight channel, fully bridgeable, balanced input amplifier

The A35.8 is Primare’s most powerful and flexible multi-channel amplifier, designed to serve the needs of virtually any high-performance multi-channel system through its ability for each pair of channels to be bridged to mono for an incredible level of power delivery and system building options, including 1500 watts of total output in a fully bridged bi-amped stereo configuration. Shipping June 2022!

A35.8 – AV Forums Editor’s Choice AV Power Amplifier 2023/2024A35.8: Primare A35.8 Eight Channel Power Amplifier ReviewA35.8 – Stereophile Recommended ComponentA35.8 – The Power of EightA35.8 – Power Amplifier of the Extra Class

Key Features

XLR and RCA inputs for each of eight channels of amplification with 150 watts per channel output into 8 ohms, with a maximum output of 1500 watts.

Each pair of output channels can be bridged, allowing the amp to provide power to virtually any multi-channel speaker configuration, either on its own or with an A35.2 stereo amplifier.

For an extraordinarily powerful two-channel bi-amplified system, one fully bridged A35.8 delivers peak power of 4 x 375 watts or 750 watts per pair per channel.

Additional convenience features include auto-sense turn-on from standby and auto standby after an absence of input signal for twenty minutes which can be turned off allowing the A35.8 to remain on indefinitely if preferred.

EISA POWER AMPLIFIER
2022-2023

Primare A35.8

Joint Best Product, Awarded by Both Home Theatre and HiFi Audio Groups

“Designed for both the home theatre audio and hi-fi worlds, Primare’s multichannel 35 Series amplifier deploys eight bridgeable channels of potent, dynamic Hypex Ncore amplification, and then lets the user decide what to do with them. This is a flexible, innovative, and imperious-sounding amplifier, in a stylish, understated chassis typical of the brand.
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Amplifier technology 

The ingenious design of the A35.8 circuit layout provides the most direct delivery and even distribution of power from the power supply to the amp modules tucked into heatsinks that isolate them from any power supply noise. In turn, this innovative construction isolates the input and output stage from any noise the amp modules might produce. Input and output signals are delivered to and from the amp module through an uninterrupted ribbon of circuit board threaded through a channel in the heat sinks for the shortest possible signal path. 

System Configurations 

The bridging capabilities of the A35.8 allow it to be used in a variety of system configurations, with or without the addition of a stereo amplifier, to suit most multi-channel system requirements. A few examples: 

  • 5.1, 7.1 and 5.1.2 channel systems can be powered by a single A35.8 
  • 5.1.4, 7.1.2, 7.1.4 channel systems can be driven by combining an A35.8 with a number of A35.2 stereo amplifiers 

  • 9.1.6 and 13.1 Auro 3D systems can be configured using two A35.8 amplifiers 

For more details go to the Dive In section in menu above.

Our design philosophy

Primare products embody the Scandinavian design ideal of lagom that sense of not too much or too little, but just right; everything in balance, proportion, and harmony. 

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A35.8 Video

In this video we take a deep dive through the features and the design of the A35.8

  • Output Power8x 150W 8 ohms / 8x 300W 4 ohms
  • XLRx 8
  • RCAx 8
  • 12V Trigger2 x 3.5mm input/output
  • RS232outboard system control port
  • Dimensions430 x 400 x145 mm (wxdxh)
  • Weight15 Kg
  • Finishesblack or titanium

For more detailed specifications see the design brief and user guide.

A35.8 eight channel fully bridgeable amplifier 

Not only is the A35.8 is the most powerful amplifier Primare has built, but it is also the most flexible, designed to serve the needs of virtually any high-performance two and multi-channel system through its ability for each pair of its eight channels to be bridged to mono for an incredible level of power delivery, up to 1500 watts in total. 

 

 

Status Indicator System 

At start up, eight internal red LED lamps, one at the base of each amp module, will flash should clipping conditions occur, visible through the top cover from above.  

Additionally, an eight LED warning system is located under the top cover at the front of the amp that will indicate the following: 

  • On – DC is detected on the related amp module 
  • Flashing – overheating on the related amp module 
  • All lights cycling – power supply unit overheating 

Power Supply 

The foundation of the A35.8 is the largest power supply Primare has ever designed, incorporating APFC and soft clipping circuitry, implemented to ensure stable performance up to the very limits of its capabilities. Dual connecting cables from the power supply mean that each group of four amplifier modules are provided with more direct and consistent power delivery by the shortest power path. 

Amplification Stage 

The ingenious design of the A35.8 circuit layout provides the most direct delivery and even distribution of power from the power supply to the amp modules tucked into heatsinks that isolate them from any power supply noise. In turn, this innovative construction isolates the input and output stage from any noise the amp modules might produce. Input and output signals are delivered to and from the amp module through an uninterrupted ribbon of circuit board threaded through a channel in the heat sinks for the shortest possible signal path. 

Inputs/Outputs 

RCA and XLR balanced input options are offered for each of the eight channels and bridging capabilities for each pair of channels, with maximum power output of 1500 watts, providing the capability of delivering 185 watts at 1KHz of peak power per channel, all channels driven.  

  • Power output is rated as 150 watts into 8 ohms, 300 watts into 4 ohms, and 400 watts into 2 ohms at 1kHz. 
  • Each pair of outputs can be bridged, capable of producing 740 watts into 8 ohms (clipping protection limited), 750 watts into 4 ohms, and 450 watts into 2 ohms at 1kHz. 

The look and feel of Scandinavia 

We believe that every aspect of our products – the way they look, the satisfying feel of the controls – contributes to the overall experience of living with Primare. As a result, Primare products exude the hallmarks of Scandinavian design – simple, elegant designs, with approachable and easy to understand functionality. An example of this is the idea of being inconspicuous, of not drawing undue attention, which is inherent in the physical design of the A35.8 Prisma, both in its compact size as well as the ingenious standby button hidden within the centre of the engraved Primare logo on the front panel 

 

For more details read the A35.8 Design Brief at this link 

System Building

The following system layout diagrams illustrate the system building versatility of the A35.8 and A35.2 amplifiers.

5.1 Dolby/DTS system

Uses bridged pairs of outputs for Front Left, Right, and Centre, with the remaining two outputs for the Surround Left and Right speakers.

7.1 Dolby/DTS system

Uses one bridged pair of outputs for Centre, with the remaining outputs for the Front Left and Right, Surround Left and Right, and Rear Surround Left and Right speakers.

 

5.1.2 Dolby Atmos/DTS:X System

Uses a bridged pair of outputs for Centre, with the remaining outputs for the Front Left and Right, Surround Left and Right, and Height Left and Right speakers.

5.1.4 Atmos/DTS:X system

Adds an A35.2 stereo amplifier for the Front Left and Right speakers, while using one bridged pair of outputs from the A35.8 for Centre, and the remaining outputs from the A35.8 for Surround Left and Right, Front Height Left and Right, and Rear Height Left and Right speakers.

7.1.2 Atmos/DTS:X system

Adds an A35.2 stereo amplifier for the Front Left and Right speakers, while using one bridged pair of outputs from the A35.8 for Centre, and the remaining outputs from the A35.8 for Surround Left and Right, Rear Surround Left and Right, and Height Left and Right speakers.

7.1.4 High-Power Atmos/DTS:X System

Adds three bridged A35.2 amplifiers for Front Left, Right, and Centre speakers, while the A35.8 provides the Surround Left and Right, Rear Surround Left and Right, and Front and Rear Left and Right Height speakers.

13.1 Auro 3D system

Uses two A35.8 amplifiers, with bridged pairs of outputs for the Front Left and Right speakers, and the remaining 11 outputs for the Centre speaker, Front Left and Right Height speakers, Surround Left and Right speakers, Middle Left and Right Height speakers, Rear Surround Left and Right speakers, Rear Left and Right Height speakers, and Top speaker.

  • AV Forums, UK, December 2023
    A35.8 – AV Forums Editor’s Choice AV Power Amplifier 2023/2024

    The Primare 35.8 is a corker of a multi-channel power amp. We didn’t need to look any further in 2023 if there was a need to furnish our AV racks with eight or sixteen channels of unbridled power. The Primare might just be an innocuous – although alluring and classy – black box with an on/off switch. But this three-footed slab can elicit extreme levels of detail, massive dynamics and laser-like imaging from all your source material. Bridge your left, centre and right speakers for up to a whopping 700 watts per channel and the performance takes yet another noticeable bump.

    … extreme levels of detail, massive dynamics and laser-like imaging The exposition on movies is relentless and yet articulate in the extreme. Two-channel music recordings come off as almost tangible with a delightfully analogue quality for a Class D design. This is all a surprise. As a consumer, you must prepare to spend big on the best amplifiers for a dedicated home cinema. But note that these are the components that will probably take up residence in your AV room for the longest haul. If you’re at the decision stage for purchasing eight (or sixteen) channels of no-holds-barred power, we say don’t overlook the Primare 35.8.

    View full review
  • AVForums, UK, August 2023
    A35.8: Primare A35.8 Eight Channel Power Amplifier Review

    “The Primare 35.8 has an unassuming profile. It’s simply a black box with an on/off switch, which is good start. But this is a glorious sounding amplifier. Movies and music are awash with fine detail, and superb imaging and depth of field. What’s more, music sources come off as almost tangible with a delightfully analogue quality for a Class D design. This is all a surprise. As a consumer, you must prepare to spend big on the best amplifiers for a dedicated home cinema room. But also remember that these are the components that will probably find a home in your AV room the longest duration. If you’re at the decision stage for purchasing eight (or sixteen) channels of unbridled power, we say don’t overlook the Primare 35.8.” Best in Class – 10/10
    View full review
  • Stereophile, USA, April 2023
    A35.8 – Stereophile Recommended Component

    ”Class B (solid state) – This eight-channel colleague of the Swedish manufacturer’s stereo A35.2 uses the reliable and powerful Hypex NC500 class-D module, with some modifications. The amplifier features a switch-mode power supply, with its two outputs each feeding four amplifier stages. Pairs of outputs can be run as bridged mono amplifiers. KR auditioned the Primare with three bridged pairs to run his Left-Center-Right speakers and the remaining two channels to run his two surround-channel speakers. While he did try the amplifier in eight-channel mode KR found that bridging transformed the A35.8 “into a much more exciting amplifier” with a better bass balance and superbly stable imaging, even in stereo. He noted that there was never any evidence of the “gray” treble he had experienced with earlier Ncore-based amplifiers: “In my preferred five-channel configuration, the A35.8 equaled other good amplifiers in the treble.” Comparing the Primare with his reference Benchmark AHB2, he felt that the Primare sounded “more convincingly live” than the Benchmark. On the test bench, the A35.8 exceeded its specified power of 150Wpc with two channels driven into 8 ohms, clipping at 200Wpc, and met its 300Wpc specification with two channels driven into 4 ohms. JA’s conclusion was that the Primare A35.8 offers high power, especially in bridged mode, with very low levels of distortion and audioband noise. KR suggests A–; too bad there’s no such rating.”

    View full review
  • Audio, Germany, February 2023
    A35.8 – The Power of Eight

    “A look under the bonnet of the Primare 35.8 power amp reveals that eight cylinders, sorry, power amps are at work here. The analogy to potent V8 engines is obvious, but only the 35.8 can be converted to an even more powerful four-cylinder…

    Up to this point, the topic of multi-channel terminal mares had not particularly appealed to me. Until now. The Primare 35.8 convinced me with its power, sound, and unbelievable versatility. Design and workmanship are also at the top level.

    Sound Judgement: 110 POINTS / Price/Performance: OUTSTANDING”

  • HiFi Test, Germany, June 2022
    A35.8 – Power Amplifier of the Extra Class

    “In addition, the Primare A35.8 not only brings a lot of power to the speaker terminals, but also a squeaky-clean signal. Vanishingly low distortion factors and other measured values attest to the Swedes’ excellent engineering… EISA (Expert Imaging and Sound Association) recently named the Primare A35.8 “Best Product 2022-2023″. And rightly so: superior performance, flawless sound and a wide range of applications also give the eight-channel amp our absolute recommendation!”  Reference Class, 1+

    View/download full review as PDF
  • Stereophile, US, November 2022
    A35.8 – 8-channel amplifier

    “The Primare A35.8 amplifier surprised me. Its performance in my system corroborated Primare’s claim that they can make a great amplifier from Ncore modules, one that can rival amplifiers based on the newer Purifi technology as well as amplifiers utilizing traditional, nonswitching technology. Its eight channels and bridged gain options endow it with tremendous versatility. To me, the Primare A35.8 is worthy of an audition in any multichannel setup. It is a pleasure to use and to listen to.”

    View full review
  • Heimkino, Germany, Jun 2022
    A35.8 – Power Amplifier with Extra Class

    For Film and Music – Our test home cinema confirms the excellent impression from the laboratory. The Primare masters the delicate tones and knows how to please with its balanced, sensitive sound. When it’s time to turn it up and the walls are supposed to shake, it doesn’t show any weaknesses and lets the cinema tremble with brute dynamics. A big movie theatre! 

    Incidentally, the Primare A35.8 is also excellent for enjoying music. High-fidelity sound characteristics paired with seemingly unlimited power reserves also delight demanding listeners. If you bridge all four channel pairs, the eight-channel power amplifier is also ideal for driving a stereo system in bi-amping mode. With a whopping 1.5 kW total output! The A35.8 is therefore recommended not only for use in the home cinema, but also for the sophisticated stereo listening room. 

    Conclusion – The EISA (Expert Imaging and Sound Association) recently named the Primare A35.8 Best Product 2022-2023. Quite rightly so: superior performance, flawless sound, and a wide range of possible uses also give the eight-channel monster our absolute recommendation!” 

    View/download full review as PDF
  • Fidelity, Germany, September 2022
    A35.8 – Customized Performance

    “With two bridged pairs of channels, the bass gains another ounce of impact and definition, but at the same time it is even more permeable for the mids, which can now breathe even more freely. In addition, especially with the bowed bass at the beginning of the piece, it is noticeable how the attack and decay of the tones are traced even more finely. The stage changes not significant in their extent, but the individual sound events now seem to be even better separated. earth shattering? Not really, but after two or three changes I can blindly tell the difference between single and bi-amping – based on small but clearly understandable differences that I don’t want to do without afterwards because they simply add that much more fun to listening to music worries.

    The experiment in search of the next bit of sound quality can therefore be considered an absolute success – especially when you consider that the additional costs are very reasonable and the eight-channel power plant takes up no more space in the rack than a stereo power amplifier.”

    View/download full review as PDF
  • EISA AWARDS, Aug 15, 2022
    EISA POWER AMPLIFIER 2022-2023

    *Joint award with Home Theatre audio expert group*

    “Designed for both the home theatre audio and hi-fi worlds, Primare’s multichannel 35 Series amplifier deploys eight bridgeable channels of potent, dynamic Hypex Ncore amplification, and then lets the user decide what to do with them. For a home cinema, the A35.8 can spread its output across a surround array or be used to bi-amp the front LCR speakers; in a two-channel system, bridged pairs bring phenomenal power and grip, and all eight amps can be put to work on loudspeakers with a split crossover. This is a flexible, innovative, and imperious-sounding amplifier, in a stylish, understated chassis typical of the brand.”

     

    View full review
  • Sound & Vision, July 2022, USA
    Primare A35.8 Eight-Channel Power Amplifier Review

    There are many uses for power, and in my months with the A35.8, I explored most of them. At no point did Primare’s eight-channel design fall short in quantity or quality of amplification, making “bigger without change” and without complaint, no matter what I sent its way. That earns the A35.8 a straight “A” in my book”

    View full review
  • HiFi Musik, Sweden, June 2022
    A35.8: Complete Freedom

    “In the final analysis I can state that Primare has succeeded very well in their intentions to produce a high-quality and supremely flexible multi-channel amplifier. And the number of channels was not simply taken out of thin air, as it can, for example, be run fully bridged to bi-amp a pair of speakers with two sets of speaker connectors, and thereby use all of those eight channels.”

    View/download full review as PDF
  • Sempre Audio, June 2022, Austria
    A35.8 Power Amplifier

    “According to the ideas of the Swedish high-end hi-fi manufacturer Primare AB, the new Primare A35.8 Power Amplifier is an eight-channel power amplifier that can be used alone or as a pair with the two-channel power amplifier Primare A35.2 Power Amplifier can supply any multi-channel system with adequate performance for the highest audiophile demands in surround playback of music and films.Above all, a sophisticated circuit design and an extremely potent power supply should ensure this.”

    View full review
  • LowBeats, June 2022, Germany
    Primare A35.8 – flexibly configurable 8-channel power amplifier

    “The Primare A35.8 is a cleverly made and highly potent 8-channel power amp for multi-channel, multi-room or ambitious stereo.”

    View full review
  • Alpha Audio, May 2022, Netherlands
    Primare A35.8 – the bridge between film and music

    “What a wonderfully fast, lively and flexible amplifier the A35.8 is. Not only can it control eight speakers, it is possible to control four power-hungry speakers via bridge mode. Or bi-amp a stereo set. And yes: that works great! However, you have to take into account the standard low gain. And you do need a preamp with four outputs. The Primare Pre35 can do that job. All in all a beautiful duo that can do much more than most enthusiasts will think!”

    Review available in both English & Dutch.

    View full review
  • Home Cinema Choice, June, 2022
    Home Cinema Choice A35.8 Review

    “Overall, Primare’s A35.8 is a classy bit of kit, with a performance (plus a luxurious design and build) that feels commensurate with its not inconsiderable asking price. It’s more than capable in terms of power output to handle hungry speakers, and does so while keeping distortion or unwanted colouration at bay. Being able to bridge its amp channels to suit your requirements is another feather in its cap, as is its refined and insightful nature with music. I rate this an A-grade amplifier.”
    Five Star / Best Buy

    View/download full review as PDF
  • FDW Magazine, April 2022, The Netherlands
    Primare A35.8 – Eight times more muscle power

    “The Primare A35.8 is above all an output stage where each channel delivers an insane amount of power and a sound quality to enjoy. Eight times 150 Watts is already very nice. Where it really gets interesting for stereo enthusiasts is when you take those eight channels and start bridging”

    View full review
  • Homecinema Magazine, April 2022, Netherlands
    Homecinema Magazine A35.8 Review

    “With the A35.8, the Swedes show that they are back again. And that with a very special device. The Swedish brand goes one step further, delighting both music lovers looking for ultimate power and those building a high-level home cinema.”

    View full review
  • HiFi News, UK, March 2022
    A35.8 HFN Review

    “The channel count reaches eight because, sensibly, Primare has built it around bridgeable pairs, which means none need go to waste in a home cinema environment. Primare’s most powerful amp to date will service the most ambitious bi-, tri- or quad-amp loudspeaker solutions… a rare product that straddles the worlds of multichannel and hi-fi with aplomb. Its amp stage delivers scads of umblemished, responsive power, while its bridging ability is there to keep hungry loudspeakers well fed – and all this comes from a box no bigger than some monoblocks…” 

    View/download full review as PDF

Primare Help Centre

Hej! Have a question or need assistance? Contact your local dealer or distributor found at the list at the link above or go to the Primare Help Centre to browse through our FAQ database for the answers to your questions or if you don’t find what you are looking for there, submit a Help Request. 

Visit the Primare Help Centre

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