Primare I15 MK2 Prisma

Primare I15 Prisma - Integrated amplifier with DAC and streaming.

With the I15 Prisma, Swedish Primare truly proves how far they have come. The I15 Prisma is Primare’s smallest amplifier in the new series - both in size and pure muscle power. So how high can your expectations really be for such a reasonably priced amplifier? With such a modest output of just 2 x 60w into 8 ohms and a fighting weight of 6.4 kg, expectations probably would not be that high. However, nothing could be further from the truth.

This little jewel of an amplifier has, to put it mildly, exceptionally good performance for the price, and must surely be described as the absolute best buy in Primare’s entire product range when performance and price are weighed against each other. Tests have shown that it is capable of driving even truly heavyweight high-end speakers, such as the Audiovector R8 at no less than DKK 420,000, in superior style. And with a sound quality that is unmatched at the price.

In its class, the I15 is practically without any competition whatsoever. A sublime "small" amplifier with fantastic sound quality. The built-in quality DAC and streaming only further emphasize the stature of the I15 Prisma. It simply does not get any better.

"The bass is also deep and powerful, and it cannot really be tipped off balance even on such grandiose speakers as Triangle Number 40th. Given that you do not play loud all the time.

The midrange has something of the same playing style as the bass. It is precise and very controlled, while being detailed and open. The treble can best be described as neutral, and it plays fine and detailed without anything sticking out in the soundscape or becoming synthetic and artificial. The amplifier in combination with the built-in digital converter has an analog character that makes it easy to listen to music and which is nimble and flattering. The amplifier is still suitably detailed and open, and it has more than enough energy in all situations, but you never get it to fall on the bright side of neutral almost regardless of the choice of music." - Stereo+, 2021.

Technology

Input Section – Carefully crafted input circuitry utilizes relays for input switching providing better isolation and sound than found in more conventional CMOS (Complementary metal– oxide–semiconductor) switches, and improved 2 x 4 channel balanced mode volume control IC selected for optimal channel balance and low listening level performance.

Amplification – The I15 Prisma employs a specially made Hypex UCD102 amplifier module, fed by our custom heavy duty switch mode power supply and carefully crafted analog input stage, provides a dynamic and detailed sound. The large scale mass production of this module allows us to provide the balanced and coherent sound for which Primare has become known at a more reasonable price than can be achieved with our limited production UFPD 2 amplifier module technology found in the larger I25 and I35, and A35.2 amplifiers.

Digital to Analog Conversion (DAC) – In order to allow for playback of virtually any digital source with absolute accuracy and musicality a high performance 32-bit stereo ESS ES9028Q2M reference DAC chipset was selected for the I15 Prisma MK2, which uses the critically acclaimed ESS patented 32-bit HyperStream technology capable of delivering a DNR of 129dB and THD+N of -120db S/N, while supporting up to 384kHz PCM and 256/11.2MHz DSD; performance levels that will satisfy the most demanding system needs and audio enthusiast.

Control

Front Panel Display – the latest generation OLED display technology used in the I15 Prisma MK2 was originally developed for the automobile industry to ensure long life in even the most hostile environments, and improved readability due to greater consistency of colour value and brightness level.

Control Configuration – either from the front panel, C25 IR remote control or Prisma app, the I15 Prisma can be configured to best suit system needs, including:

Inputs can be assigned as a surround sound passthrough for incorporating the amplifier into a home cinema. Auto sense input circuitry can be configured to wake up the I15 Prisma MK2 from standby and automatically select any input source, or if already operating select any source, as it is activated.

Prisma – Network Player and Multi-room Technology

Prisma is a bundle of technologies that provide the broadest range of network music player features and functionality. Essentially created to be a streamer that would allow everyone, and everywhere, in the household to explore, discover, and share the deeply satisfying experience of high-performance music playback – Prisma provides multi-room/multi-zone connectivity and control of stored and streamed media, whether wired or wireless, all managed from mobile devices through the dedicated Prisma system control app.

In addition to control of network connected hard drives using the Prisma application, Prisma includes AirPlay 2, Bluetooth®, Roon Ready, Spotify Connect®, and Chromecast built-in, a unique streaming portal allowing effortless direct connection to hundreds of streaming applications and services, including voice control, for the best possible performance and user experience.

Roon Ready

Roon transforms the experience of browsing music. Artist photos, credits, bios, reviews, lyrics, tour dates, and composers are located automatically, then interconnected by links to build a surfable, searchable digital magazine about your music collection.

And Roon finds all the same links between your personal files and the millions of tracks available on TIDAL, so you can start with the music you know, then explore and discover new music from the world beyond your collection

System Building

With the 15 Series, we offer a carefully considered array of models in order to allow for the best selection to fit any of your system needs. For example, the ultimate 15 Series system might be the DD15 CD transport, SC15 Prisma preamplifier and network player, I15 analog integrated amplifier, and R15 MM/MC phono preamplifier, allowing for the best performance, analog or digital, with the greatest number of connection options. However, there may be no need for additional digital inputs, MC phono preamplification may not be requirement, or simply to address budget or size considerations, a system composed of CD15 Prisma CD and network player with an I15 MM integrated amplifier with MM15 MM phono module installed could be assembled. This compact and reasonably priced system provides multiple analog source playback, including vinyl disc, as well as digital disc, stored or streamed media playback, with remarkable power, control, and connection flexibility. And finally, for those without the need for either CD or LP playback, an I15 Prisma with a pair of speakers may be all that is needed to build the perfect system.

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 I15 Prisma MK2, both in its compact size as well as minimal display and button array providing all the information and control necessary; simply and elegantly.