SilentPower OMNI LAN Review – Optical Isolation for Pure Audiophile Networking
With the OMNI LAN, SilentPower – a sub-brand of iFi – targets one of the most overlooked weak points in digital music playback: the network infrastructure. Featuring optical signal conversion, triple isolation, and iFi’s Global Master Timing clock system, this switch aims to eliminate jitter, ground noise and electrical interference. Designed for high-end streamers, DACs and studio installations, the OMNI LAN is a serious tool for anyone chasing the purest digital signal paths.
- The SilentPower OMNI LAN is a high-precision, optically isolated network switch with triple-stage decoupling and integrated master clock. Designed for audiophiles and professionals alike, it ensures jitter-free, interference-free data transmission for streaming systems, DACs, and studio setups.
Digital music reproduction has reached a level of precision once thought impossible. High-resolution formats, advanced DACs and sophisticated streaming platforms now deliver studio-grade sound into living rooms. Yet with this progress, the sensitivity of every link in the chain becomes apparent – and that includes the humble network.
Conventional IT-grade switches focus on throughput and cost efficiency, not signal purity. Electrical interference, jitter and ground potential differences can subtly degrade sonic performance. The SilentPower OMNI LAN Optically Isolated Network Switch, developed by SilentPower by iFi, is designed to counter precisely these issues. It’s more than a data distributor – it’s an audiophile network management device that isolates, reclocks and regenerates data streams for absolute signal integrity.
Key Facts – SilentPower OMNI LAN Optically Isolated Network Switch
- Optically isolated High-End Network Switch for audio and video applications
- Triple-stage isolation: Transformer – Optical – Transformer
- Total of 13 ports: 4 Ultra-Pure isolated ports and 9 galvanically separated ports
- iFi Global Master Timing (GMT) for jitter elimination
- 10 MHz Clock In/Out for external synchronization
- Real-time TFT display with port activity monitoring
- Horizontal or vertical operation with included stand
- App control and firmware updates via iFi Nexis
- Gigabit bandwidth (1.000 Mbps), jitter 0.05 ms, packet loss <0.1%
- Optional Rack-Mount Kit for professional integration
- Price: € 799,-
SilentPower by iFi – Clean Power and Signal Engineering
SilentPower is a dedicated sub-brand of iFi audio, part of Abbingdon Music Research (AMR) in the UK. While iFi is widely recognised for DACs, headphone amplifiers and streaming devices, SilentPower focuses exclusively on system infrastructure – delivering clean power and interference-free signal paths.
The OMNI LAN is the brand’s first product aimed squarely at network optimisation. It follows SilentPower’s core philosophy: eliminate electrical noise at the source. The result is a solution tailored for discerning users who value stability, accuracy and sonic integrity across their entire setup – from power supply to data transport.
Concept – Isolation, Regeneration and Precision
At the heart of the OMNI LAN lies a meticulously engineered isolation system designed to eliminate electrical interference. The data path is split into three stages: the incoming signal first passes through a transformer for galvanic separation, is then converted into light for optical transmission within the chassis, and finally reconverted into an electrical signal through another transformer.
This triple isolation forms an effective barrier across the entire frequency spectrum, preventing HF noise, ground loops or stray currents from entering the audio chain. Complementing this is iFi’s Global Master Timing (GMT) – a precision clock module that actively suppresses jitter and reclocks the data stream. The switch can receive or provide a 10 MHz clock signal via its BNC connectors, allowing perfect synchronisation in complex studio or multi-zone systems.
Architecture and Features
The OMNI LAN provides 13 network ports, divided into two function groups. Nine standard ports – eight RJ45 and one SFP optical – are galvanically isolated and intended for routers, NAS servers or controllers. Four Ultra-Pure ports – two RJ45, one optical SC and one M12 connector – employ full triple isolation for critical components such as streamers, DACs or pre-amps.
With a bandwidth of 1 Gbit/s, jitter as low as 0.05 ms and packet loss below 0.1 %, the switch ensures stable, loss-free transmission for both high-resolution audio and 4K video.
A real-time TFT colour display provides live data rate and port activity monitoring, while the iFi Nexis App enables full control, firmware updates and network diagnostics. Power is supplied via a DC input (9–15 V), with idle consumption below 0.5 W and a maximum draw of 14 W – ideal for continuous 24/7 operation.
User Interface and Control – Clarity and Flexibility
The integrated Dynamic Data Dashboard gives instant access to port activity and traffic statistics directly on the device. A multifunction rotary control on the front panel allows adjustment of grounding modes and clock synchronisation, both essential in complex installations.
Three grounding modes are available:
- DC-RF – shared DC and RF ground
- RF – high-frequency ground only
- ISO – complete galvanic isolation with no ground connection
All these settings can also be managed via the iFi Nexis App, which additionally handles firmware updates and real-time monitoring. This blend of hardware control and app integration ensures a high degree of operational comfort for both professional installers and private users.
In Practice – Integration and Use
The SilentPower OMNI LAN is a plug-and-play solution designed for immediate integration. In an audiophile system, it’s ideally placed between the router and key streaming components, effectively isolating all sensitive devices from the rest of the household network. The Ultra-Pure ports connect directly to streamers, DACs or digital preamps, while the standard ports handle NAS drives, controllers or less critical peripherals.
For studio applications, the OMNI LAN can act as a clocking hub via its 10 MHz BNC connections, synchronising multiple devices for sample-accurate performance. An optional Rack-Mount Kit allows two units to be paired into a 24-port configuration – perfect for larger installations or multi-room systems.
The switch can operate horizontally or vertically, and a dedicated stand for upright placement is included in the package.
Listening Impressions and Perspective
Whether and how much improvement a device like the OMNI LAN brings depends largely on the quality of the existing setup. Those with IT expertise and well-designed home networks may already achieve clean performance with quality enterprise-grade switches. However, even in such systems, residual interference and ground noise can persist.
The OMNI LAN eliminates these variables entirely, offering peace of mind and a cleaner, more stable foundation for digital playback. For enthusiasts who already invest in high-end electronics, quality cables and dedicated power conditioning, optimising the network layer is a logical next step.
In our evaluation environment, the OMNI LAN performed flawlessly. Beyond measurable improvements, its solid build and local installation right inside the AV furniture reduced cable lengths – a practical benefit when using premium network cables that can be costly by the metre.
Price and Availability
The SilentPower OMNI LAN is available now at a recommended retail price of € 799,-. Distribution in the DACH region is handled by WOD Audio. The optional OMNI Rack Mount Kit for professional installation allows two units to be combined into a 24-port system.
Conclusion – Precision Begins in the Network
With the OMNI LAN, SilentPower by iFi demonstrates that the network is no longer a passive component but an active part of the audiophile signal chain. This is not just another IT switch but a purpose-built high-end component that eliminates electrical interference and jitter at their origin.
Optical isolation, triple decoupling and integrated master clock technology make the OMNI LAN one of the most sophisticated network switches available. Add to that real-time monitoring, app integration and flexible configuration for home or professional use, and it becomes an essential tool for anyone seeking uncompromised digital purity.
For perfectionists who demand the same attention to detail from their network as from their DACs and amplifiers, the SilentPower OMNI LAN stands out as a benchmark solution – and at € 799,-, it’s arguably one of the most refined yet attainable entries into the world of audiophile network optimisation.
| Product | SilentPower OMNI LAN Optically isolated Network Switch |
|---|---|
| Price | SilentPower OMNI LAN Optically isolated Network Switch € 799,- SilentPower OMNI Rack Mount Kit € 99,- |
Technical Data
| Product | SilentPower OMNI LAN Optically Isolated Network Switch |
|---|---|
| Type | Optically isolated network switch |
| Bandwidth | 1.000 Mbps (Gigabit Ethernet) |
| Jitter | 0.05 ms |
| Packet Loss | < 0.1 % |
| Total Ports | 13 (9 Standard + 4 Ultra-Pure) |
| Standard Ports | 8 × RJ45, 1 × SFP Optical |
| Ultra-Pure Ports | 2 × RJ45, 1 × Optical SC, 1 × M12 |
| Isolation | Triple-stage (Transformer – Optical – Transformer) |
| Clock System | iFi Global Master Timing (GMT) |
| Clock I/O | 10 MHz BNC In / Out |
| Display | TFT colour display with real-time monitoring |
| Control | iFi Nexis App (incl. firmware updates) |
| Power Supply | DC 9–15 V (1.5 A / 0.9 A) |
| Power Consumption | <0.5 W idle / 14 W max |
| Dimensions (W × D × H) | 214 × 157 × 41 mm |
| Weight | 1,06 kg |
The SilentPower OMNI LAN is a technically flawless network switch that performs its task with the utmost precision. Thanks to optical isolation, triple decoupling, and precise clock control, it operates completely free from external interference and ensures stable, clean signal transmission. Given its features and manufacturing quality, it offers an exceptionally good price-performance ratio and is recommended as a reliable control center for demanding streaming systems.
Positive
- Technically sophisticated, optically isolated design with three-stage decoupling
- Integrated master clock with 10 MHz synchronization for maximum precision
- Very easy to use – even for less technically savvy users
- Real-time monitoring via TFT display and convenient control via the iFi Nexis app
- External power supply reduces interference within the device and enables flexible power supply
- High-quality workmanship and sophisticated, practical design
- Very good value for money considering the technology offered
Negative
- Limited to 1 Gbps bandwidth, no support for faster 2.5 Gb or 10 Gb networks
Test Environment
- Technics SU-R1000 Stereo Integrated Amplifier
- Eversolo DMP-A6 Master Edition
- Sonus Faber Amati G5
- Silentwire Signal Cable
- Silentwire Power Cable
- Silentwire Speaker Cable
- KECES IQRP-1500 Isolated Quantum Resonance Power Conditioner
- Apple MacBook Pro
- Apple iPhone 12 Pro
| Brand | SilentPower |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | Abbingdon Music Research |
| Distribution | WOD Audio |
| More about this manufacturer at HiFi BLOG |
Conclusion
Sound
Design
Handling
Price/Performance
Very good
With the OMNI LAN, SilentPower delivers a network switch that impresses in every respect, combining technical perfection with practical functionality. Its sophisticated isolation architecture consistently eliminates interference and guarantees uninterrupted data streams, even in complex high-end setups. Anyone looking for an absolutely stable, precise switch at a fair price will find a solution here that fulfills its task discreetly but without compromise.
