8Switch

About the 8Switch

The English Electric 8Switch is an audiophile-grade 8-port Gigabit Ethernet switch from the Chord Company brand, designed specifically for high-end music streaming networks. It features eight audio-grade 100/1000 Base-T Gigabit Ethernet ports, with one input for LAN connection and seven outputs for audio/video devices. Powered by a customized TCXO (Temperature Compensation Crystal Oscillator) with 0.1ppm accuracy, it significantly reduces jitter by up to 90% compared to standard switches, ensuring stable and accurate network signals for high-resolution audio playback. The switch includes low and high electrical noise isolation circuits in both power supply and clock generation, plus an EMI absorber to minimize interference. Housed in a machined aluminum enclosure for protection against acoustic and electrical noise, it has a minimal front panel LED display showing power, alarm, and port status/speed. The included medical-grade/AV-grade 5V DC 1A power adapter (5.5mm x 2.1mm barrel connector) features high efficiency (<0.075W no-load), short circuit, overload, and over-voltage protection. Supplied with a 75cm Chord Company C-Stream streaming cable, it delivers audible improvements in clarity, detail, dynamics, and soundstage for streaming services and NAS playback.