Volumio Primo V3 High-Resolution Network Streamer & DAC

Volumio Primo V3 High-Resolution Network Streamer & DAC

Primo V3 is Volumio’s redesigned network streamer and DAC, built around the ESS ES9039Q2M with balanced XLR and RCA outputs, selectable output levels, NOS mode and high-resolution USB output.

Primo V3 is the current core Volumio streamer for a system that needs both network playback and a quality analogue output. It can feed an integrated amplifier, preamp or active speakers directly, while USB output leaves an easy path to a separate DAC later.

The V3 moves to a Cortex-A72 platform, adds a new ESS ES9039Q2M converter, internal linear power-supply stage and much more flexible analogue level matching than the previous Primo generation.

ESS ES9039Q2M DAC

A complete analogue source without another box

The internal DAC supports PCM up to 384kHz/32-bit through RCA and balanced XLR. Eight filters and switchable NOS mode are available for customers who want to experiment, but the bigger practical improvement is the selectable output voltage.

Output Level Matching

Useful with integrated amps and active speakers

RCA can be set from 0.50 to 3.15V RMS and XLR from 1.00 to 6.30V RMS. That allows the streamer to be matched to the input sensitivity and useful volume range of the next component rather than simply running the highest possible level.

Streaming and Libraries

Volumio Premium built into the hardware

TIDAL Connect, Qobuz Connect, Spotify Connect, AirPlay, UPnP/DLNA, internet radio and local or network storage are managed through Volumio OS. Gigabit Ethernet is ideal for a permanent installation, with dual-band Wi-Fi when wiring is not available.

External DAC Upgrade Path

Keep the platform if the converter changes

USB output supports up to PCM 1536kHz/32-bit and DSD1024 with compatible hardware, allowing Primo V3 to remain as a network transport if a dedicated DAC is added later.

Key Features

• ESS Sabre ES9039Q2M DAC
• PCM up to 384kHz/32-bit through analogue outputs
• USB output up to PCM 1536kHz/32-bit and DSD1024
• Balanced XLR and RCA outputs
• Eight selectable output levels per analogue output type
• Eight DAC filters
• Switchable NOS mode
• Gigabit Ethernet and dual-band Wi-Fi
• Bluetooth 5.0
• 12V trigger output
• Volumio Premium included

Specifications

Detailed Technical Specifications

For those who like to drag out all the useful bits

Important Notes

• Primo V3 is a streamer/DAC, not an integrated amplifier.
• Select the analogue output level to suit the downstream amplifier or active speaker rather than assuming the highest voltage is best.

The Audio Experts Take

Primo V3 is probably the easiest point in the current Volumio range for a conventional two-channel system. It has a serious enough analogue stage to run straight into a good integrated amplifier, balanced outputs where they are useful, and a USB path to an external DAC if the system changes later.

The output-level control is a practical upgrade over the older Primo models because it makes system matching easier rather than simply adding another headline format.