Silent Angel Bonn N8 Audiophile Network Switch

The Silent Angel Bonn N8 is an audiophile network switch that frees the digital music signal ahead of your streamer from high-frequency noise.

Sounds like computer accessory talk at first. It isn't: the Bonn N8 sits between router and system and makes sure a calmer, more precisely clocked signal reaches your streamer. You hear the result as more silence between the notes.

Why the Bonn N8?

An ordinary switch is tuned for data throughput, not for sound. The Bonn N8 flips those priorities.

• Precise TCXO clock: the temperature-compensated crystal oscillator keeps the timing of data packets stable and reduces jitter – the small timing errors that make a soundstage feel restless.
• Clean separation from the home network: filter stages keep the electrical noise from router, NAS and smart home away from your audio path. Music stands out against a noticeably darker background as a result.
• Eight Gigabit ports: enough connections for streamer, server, NAS and TV, gold-plated for lasting, secure contact.
• Plug-and-play: plug it in between router and system, done. No app, no configuration.

What you hear

The effect isn't a new sound, but less disruption. Voices separate more clearly from the background, reverb tails decay longer and more naturally, and fine treble detail feels less strained. If you stream high-resolution via Qobuz or Tidal, you'll notice the difference most on quiet, finely recorded passages.

Who is the Bonn N8 for?

The Bonn N8 is the ideal entry into audiophile networking: for anyone who already owns a decent streamer and feels there's still some spaciousness stuck somewhere in the chain. Plain talk: if you currently just run Bluetooth from your phone occasionally, or still listen through the cables that came in the box with your speakers, put your money there first. The switch refines a good signal, it doesn't fix a weak link further down the chain.

Our verdict

The Bonn N8 is the sensible first step once you start taking your streaming setup seriously. Honest value for money, an audible effect and zero setup effort. Need even more quiet? The larger Bonn N8C is the logical next step. We'll work out which level suits your chain in a conversation at HD Zürisee in Wädenswil.

What the trade press says: "With high-quality components and thoughtful shielding, the Bonn N8 achieved good results and coaxed previously untapped potential out of the connection." – hifitest.de, November 2019.

Technical data

• Ports: 8 x 1000 Base-T Gigabit Ethernet, gold-plated
• Clock: TCXO, 0.1 ppm at 25 °C
• Housing: galvanized sheet steel construction
• Indicators: status LEDs for power and data flow
• Dimensions (W × H × D): 155 × 26 × 85 mm
• Weight: approx. 350 g
• What's included: Bonn N8, plug-in power supply (5 V), network cable, quick-start guide

Frequently asked questions

Do I need special software for the Bonn N8?

No. The Bonn N8 works on a plug-and-play basis. You connect it between your router and your audio devices, and it takes care of the rest automatically in the background. No app and no configuration is needed.

Is it worth adding an external power supply to the Bonn N8?

Yes, noticeably. The included plug-in power supply works fine, but a linear power supply such as the Silent Angel Forester F1 lowers the noise floor further and is our most popular upgrade for the switch.

Does the switch help with video streaming too?

The Bonn N8 is primarily designed for audio. 4K streams usually benefit only subtly from the stable data rate. The clear added value is heard on a good hi-fi chain, not on the TV.

Why buy the Bonn N8 at HD Zürisee?

Because network audio needs experience, not gut feeling. We've spent years listening in Wädenswil to what a switch brings to which chain, and we'll tell you honestly whether it makes a difference for you. Add to that authorized advice, setup, and our technician Mauri for support.

Goes well with

Get the most out of the Bonn N8 with a linear power supply and clean cabling. Browse the world of Silent Angel, take a look at the matching network cables and networking gear, and find the right streamer under streamers & network players.