English Electric 8Switch – Network Switch for HiFi Streaming

Chord introduces a high-performance network switch under the prestigious English Electric brand, a name well known in the UK since the early 1900s. The EE 8Switch is an audiophile-grade switch designed specifically for use in HiFi systems.

It’s a common misconception that digital signals are immune to the pitfalls of analog transmission. But that’s not the case. Even the most skeptical digital purist might be surprised by the outstanding performance and technical refinement of the new EE Chord 8Switch.

Streaming music isn’t just about specs and measurements. While both play a crucial role in the design and development stages, for music lovers, the real test is always how it sounds.

Holding onto one’s dogmas can often limit discovery. A hands-on trial at a specialized audio dealer can be the gateway to a fresh approach to music.

Today, the English Electric 8Switch (a Chord Company brand) is an 8-port GbE Ethernet switch, purpose-built and modified to meet the needs of high-performance music streaming networks.

> “If you stream HD music, the EE 8Switch is the right accessory for your setup. Yes, it’s an accessory — but it’s essential for achieving the quality you’re aiming for and paying for.”

What’s inside?

• Equipped with eight audiophile-grade 100/1000 Base-T Gigabit Ethernet ports, the 8Switch is ready to handle even the most demanding streaming setups.
• Audible improvements can be perceived when listening to music via streaming services or from NAS-stored libraries.
• Features shielding against both low- and high-frequency electromagnetic noise, reducing issues common in real-time hi-res audio playback.

 Who needs a high-quality streaming switch?

So who benefits from a high-end Gigabit switch?

• Those with quality AV gear: Blu-ray players, active HiFi speakers, NAS, Ethernet-connected TVs (LCD or OLED), audio streamers, smart amps — essentially, any Ethernet-equipped AV device where timing matters.
• The 8Switch delivers low-noise, precision-timed network signals across your LAN.
• It uses a custom high-precision signal generator, electrical and EMI isolation, and a medical-grade power supply to ensure clean, filtered power throughout your system.

> “These technologies come together to provide a high-quality network signal to your HiFi chain.”

 Build and power design

• Machined aluminum chassis ensures robust shielding from both acoustic and electrical noise.
• Minimalist LED front display shows power status and port link/speed activity for all eight ports.
• The medical-grade power supply minimizes power-line noise and prevents poor AC quality from affecting LAN signals.
• Consumes less than 0.075 W idle, with protection against short circuit, overload, and overvoltage.

 Core Technologies

• Features a custom TCXO (temperature-compensated crystal oscillator) with 0.1 ppm precision — far superior to standard crystals and even most TCXOs.
• Separate power and clock circuits each include dual noise-isolation stages for ultra-stable network signals.
• An EMI absorber further reduces digital circuit interference.
• Compared to general-purpose switches, 8Switch achieves up to 90% jitter reduction, improving timing and coherence.

 Listening Test — The Sound Organization US

> “I've been in HiFi long enough to know that nearly any change in your system can either elevate or compromise musical performance. The key is to stay open-minded and let your ears (and body) be the guide.”

> “At first glance, the 8Switch doesn't look like much — just another switch. But like premium Ethernet cables, this is one of those products you must hear to truly appreciate.”

> “After just a few A/B comparisons, the improvement with 8Switch in the chain is undeniable. Instrument separation becomes clearer, transients and dynamics more lifelike, and the entire soundstage expands in depth and width.”

> “As a former musician, I know timing is everything in music. I thought my system was already great — but the 8Switch doubled its timing precision. There’s a unity in the musical signal that you only notice after it’s gone.”

> “Once you hear the improvement, removing the 8Switch forces your brain to ‘fill in the blanks’ — I’d rather let the 8Switch do that for me. It's a no-brainer upgrade I’d never want to remove from my system, especially at this price point.”

> “In short, few network upgrades are so easy to install and deliver such immediate, audible improvement. In my system, the 8Switch is staying put.”