English Electric 8Switch Network Switch
A network switch built for streaming systems where the music source depends on a cleaner, calmer network path.
When Streaming Depends on More Than the App
A streamer can only work with the network signal it receives. Routers, basic switches, power supplies, and nearby electronics can add noise and timing instability before the music ever reaches the DAC.
That does not mean streaming has to feel fragile or technical. It means the network side of the system should be treated like part of the audio chain, especially when streaming is the main source.
Chosen for Better Network Audio
We chose the English Electric 8Switch because it is an eight-port gigabit Ethernet switch modified for high-performance music streaming networks. It uses a customized temperature-compensated crystal oscillator rated at 0.1ppm, plus isolation and noise-control measures designed for audio use.
The 8Switch is not about adding complexity. It gives streamers, servers, network players, and audio switches a more considered network foundation so music can sound more natural, better organized, and less digitally tense.
What the Specs Won't Tell You
Streaming Sounds More Relaxed. Lower network noise can help music feel less hard-edged and more continuous through a capable streamer and DAC.
The Rack Becomes More Organized. Eight gigabit ports make it easier to keep streamers, servers, and network audio devices wired properly without relying on a basic consumer switch.
The Upgrade Is Easy to Demonstrate. The 8Switch sits quietly in the network path, but the change can be clear when the rest of the system is revealing enough.
The Audio Two Verdict
The 8Switch is the network switch we would look at when streaming has become a serious source in the system. It makes sense before the streamer, between router and audio network, or in a rack where several network audio devices need a better wired foundation.
It is especially useful when the music already sounds good but still carries a slight digital edge, flatness, or lack of ease. Clean up the network path, then judge what the streamer and DAC can really do.
Tech You Can Hear
| What You Hear | Why It Happens |
|---|---|
| Streaming sounds calmer and more continuous | Audio-focused gigabit Ethernet switch design |
| Timing feels more stable | Customized TCXO clock rated at 0.1ppm |
| Less noise entering the streaming chain | Isolation circuits and EMI absorption in the switch design |
| Cleaner rack wiring | Eight 100/1000 Base-T gigabit Ethernet ports |
| A simple path into better streaming | Supplied with a Chord Company C-stream Ethernet cable |
Technical Highlights
- Eight-port gigabit Ethernet switch for streaming audio networks
- Eight audio-grade 100/1000 Base-T gigabit Ethernet ports
- Customized TCXO clock rated at 0.1ppm
- Isolation circuits and EMI absorption
- Advanced medical-grade 5V power supply
- Supplied with 0.75m Chord Company C-stream cable
- Matte black machined aluminium enclosure
- Dimensions: 35 x 152 x 83mm
- Weight: 422g
Why Choose Audio Two
Audio Two ships across Canada. If you don't have access to a proper high-end dealer in your city, this is your way in — real expertise from people who've heard the system, matched the electronics, and can guide you through a decision this size.