Overview

Primare’s I22 is an 80W×2 UFPD Class-D integrated amplifier introduced with the 20/30 Series refresh (sold around 2011) and expandable with an optional DAC board adding Toslink/coax/USB-B inputs[1][2]. It provides four analog inputs plus pre/record outputs and is now listed as a past product (discontinued)[1][3]. MSRP at the time was 1,799 USD[7].

Scientific Validity

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Manufacturer specs: 10Hz–20kHz (-0.5dB) frequency response, THD <0.05% (20Hz–20kHz, 10W/8Ω), S/N -95 dBV, and 80W×2 into 8Ω[1]. These are adequate but fall short of today’s state-of-the-art transparent figures, especially in THD and S/N. No comprehensive third-party measurements of I22 itself were found; score is provisional based on official data[1].

Technology Level

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UFPD aimed to maintain constant loop gain across the audible band and reduce load dependency—a distinctive implementation for its time[1][2]. Given current Class-D advances and widely available high-performance modules, the relative edge has narrowed; we credit originality but temper for age.

Cost-Performance

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Comparator (equal-or-better)
Combine Fosi Audio V3 power amp with Schiit SYS passive preamp to match integrated functionality (source switching + volume). V3 shows low distortion and solid SNR in independent measurements[6], meeting or exceeding I22’s published THD/SN, while the pair covers equivalent user-facing functions[4][5][6].

Prices (current representative)
V3: 89 USD (official)[5]; SYS: 49 USD (official)[4]; total 138 USD.
I22 denominator price: 1,799 USD (MSRP)[7].

Computation (required display)
138 USD ÷ 1,799 USD = 0.0767 → rounded to one decimal place 0.1.
Conclusion: modern equal-or-better amplification can be obtained at under one-tenth the I22’s price.

Reliability & Support

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As a simple analog integrated, I22 has few inherent wear items. It is, however, a legacy model with no new-unit availability[3]. Primare’s general warranty policy is two years (territory conditions apply), which is industry average[4]. No credible widespread defect data was found; score remains average.

Rationality of Design Philosophy

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The engineering goal—low distortion and stable performance via UFPD—is scientifically grounded, and the feature set is purposefully minimal[1]. Yet considering present-day options delivering superior measured transparency at much lower prices, the design no longer represents a cost-effective route to transparent amplification.

Advice

Keep an existing I22 if it’s functioning well; it remains a competent, quiet integrated with adequate power. For new purchases, prioritize modern measured performers—either an affordable Class-D power amp plus a simple pre (as above) or an integrated with documented low THD+N and high SNR. The I22’s 0.3W standby is operationally nice, but performance-per-dollar favors current alternatives[1][4][5][6].

References

[1] Primare, “I22 User Guide,” https://primare.net/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/I22UserGuide.pdf (accessed 2025-08-25) — 10Hz–20kHz (-0.5dB), THD<0.05% (20Hz–20kHz, 10W/8Ω), S/N -95 dBV, 2×80W/8Ω, 0.3W standby, optional DAC inputs.
[2] Primare, “History,” https://primare.net/about/history/ (accessed 2025-08-25) — 2010 introduction of the I22 with optional DAC.
[3] Primare, “Past Products,” https://primare.net/support/past-products/ (accessed 2025-08-25) — I22 listed as legacy.
[4] Schiit Audio, “SYS,” https://www.schiit.com/products/sys (accessed 2025-08-25) — 2-input passive preamp, 49 USD.
[5] Fosi Audio, “V3 Amplifier,” https://fosiaudio.com/products/fosi-audio-v3-300w-x2-2-0-channel-hi-fi-stereo-audio-amplifier-with-tpa3255-chip (accessed 2025-08-25) — product info, 89 USD.
[6] Audio Science Review, “Fosi Audio V3 Amplifier Review,” https://www.audiosciencereview.com/forum/index.php?threads/fosi-audio-v3-amplifier-review.45757/ (Jun 20, 2023; accessed 2025-08-25) — third-party measurements indicating low distortion and good SNR.
[7] Tone Publications, “The Primare I22 Integrated,” https://www.tonepublications.com/review/the-primare-i22-integrated/ (accessed 2025-08-25) — MSRP 1,799 USD.

(2025.8.25)