LHY Audio SW-8 Network Switch

PRODUCT AVAILABILITY & CURRENT ALTERNATIVES

The LHY Audio SW-8 is a previous-generation audiophile Ethernet switch and is no longer available for purchase at Audiophoria. This page remains available for product information, specifications and reference.

For a currently listed alternative, explore the Gustard N18 Pro Network Switch, featuring five Gigabit RJ45 ports, an SFP optical interface, precision clocking and an external 10MHz reference input.

Customers who prefer to stay with LHY Audio can also consider the newer AS6, AS6 Pro and AS8 Pro / AS8 Pro+ models. The AS8 range is particularly relevant to users seeking a more advanced multi-port network architecture. Please note that these are current alternatives, not officially confirmed direct replacements for the SW-8.

Contact Audiophoria for current availability and advice on choosing a suitable replacement.

LHY AUDIO SW-8 NETWORK SWITCH

The LHY Audio SW-8 was developed as a dedicated audiophile Gigabit Ethernet switch for digital music systems. Based on the Linksys LGS108 eight-port switching platform, it combines standard network connectivity with a redesigned power supply, precision clock circuitry and a solid aluminium chassis.

Its purpose is to provide a dedicated network connection for compatible streamers, music servers, network-enabled DACs and other Ethernet devices within an audio installation.

EIGHT GIGABIT ETHERNET PORTS

The SW-8 provides eight RJ45 ports supporting 10/100/1000Mbps Ethernet connections. This allows multiple devices, including a router, network storage, music server and streamer, to share the same Gigabit network.

The switch uses the established Linksys LGS108 architecture, with support for standard Ethernet networking and link/activity indicators. It does not feature SFP optical ports, a dedicated isolated RJ45 audio port or an external 10MHz clock connection.

SC-CUT OCXO CLOCK UPGRADE

LHY replaced the standard clock oscillator of the underlying switching platform with a high-quality SC-cut oven-controlled crystal oscillator supported by low-noise PLL circuitry.

The OCXO provides an internal timing reference for the Ethernet switch. It is not a master-clock output and cannot directly supply a 10MHz reference signal to an external DAC or digital transport.

LOW-NOISE LINEAR POWER SUPPLY

The SW-8 incorporates an encapsulated Talema transformer, AC noise filtering, high-speed rectification and reservoir capacitors. Multiple regulated power rails supply the network circuitry at the voltages required by the switching platform.

This dedicated power architecture was designed to reduce electrical interference generated within the unit and provide stable operation without an external DC power adapter.

CNC ALUMINIUM CHASSIS

The switch is housed in a substantial CNC-machined aluminium enclosure with integrated heatsinking. The cabinet provides mechanical rigidity and passive thermal management, allowing the unit to operate without a cooling fan.

Measuring 240 × 175 × 50mm and weighing approximately 1.95kg, the SW-8 was designed for convenient installation in an audio equipment rack.

CHOOSING A MODERN NETWORK SWITCH

While the SW-8 remains a useful reference for owners of this earlier LHY design, newer audiophile network switches offer additional possibilities such as dedicated isolated Ethernet connections, fibre-optic networking and external clock inputs.

Customers requiring eight conventional RJ45 connections should compare port counts carefully before selecting a replacement. For advice on current LHY models or alternative networking solutions, please contact Audiophoria.

BUY WITH CONFIDENCE

Products purchased from Audiophoria are supported by a 2-Year EU Warranty, with Free EU Shipping on orders over €150 and our Best Price Promise. The LHY Audio SW-8 is currently unavailable; these purchasing benefits apply to eligible products offered for sale.