Reference Class Audiophile Primare CD31 CD player just been serviced world renowned as been one of the finest Analog sound stage CD players

The Primare CD31 is widely recognized in high-end audio circles as a definitive reference-class audiophile CD player. Originally released by the Swedish manufacturer in the mid-2000s, it achieved critical acclaim for its premium engineering and incredibly analog-sounding playback.


The Primare CD31 is a critically acclaimed, premium audiophile compact disc player manufactured by the Swedish high-end audio brand Primare. Known for its robust, minimalist Scandinavian industrial design and highly musical presentation, it remains a highly regarded unit in the second-hand hi-fi market.
Core Technical Architecture

Premium R2R DACs: The heart of the CD31 features four Burr-Brown PCM1704 K-grade DAC chips. Unlike modern delta-sigma variants, these are legendary multi-bit (R2R) ladder chips celebrated for their natural, fluid, and analog-like sound signatures.

True Balanced Design: When using the balanced XLR outputs, the player utilizes all 4 DAC chips to achieve an entirely symmetrical signal path, drastically reducing noise and distortion.

Extensive Power Regulation: The player's internal circuitry features an isolated architecture where separate circuit blocks utilize their own discrete, filtered power supplies to minimize cross-component interference. [1]

Specifications at a Glance

Analog Outputs: 1 x Balanced (XLR, 4.0 VRMS), 1 x Unbalanced (RCA, 2.0 VRMS)

Digital Outputs: Coaxial (S/PDIF), Optical (TOSlink), and Professional AES/EBU (XLR)

Signal-to-Noise Ratio: 105 dB

Frequency Response: 20 Hz – 20 kHz (-0.5dB)

Dimensions / Weight: 430 x 385 x 100 mm / 10.5 kg (a very substantial, heavy chassis) [1, 2



Reviewers and owners typically praise the CD31 for its expansive, open soundstage, excellent left-to-right instrument tracking, and remarkable high-frequency clarity. It is generally described as smooth, subtle, and incredibly insightful, leaning away from aggressive forwardness in favor of long-term listening comfort. [1, 2, 3, 4, 5]