Silent Angel Launches H1 Streamer and DAC
The compact H1 combines a music streamer and digital-to-analogue converter in a single unit priced at £849.
Updated on Nov. 6, 2026 in Classical
Silent Angel has announced the H1, a music streamer and DAC combined in one compact unit. The H1 is available this December and is priced at £849.
Why it matters
Combining streaming and DAC functions in a single chassis offers listeners a simpler setup for high-resolution playback. Its dual mono design and independent power architecture target improved stereo imaging and reduced interference between circuits.
The H1 houses twin 32-bit ESS SABRE ES9039Q2M DAC chips and a third-generation XMOS XU316 audio processor, and supports PCM up to 32-bit/768kHz and DSD512. Comparative performance data against rival units has not been published.
The players
Silent Angel
Silent Angel is the audio equipment manufacturer that developed and announced the H1 streamer and DAC.
Bluesound
Bluesound is a wireless multiroom audio brand whose Node Icon streamer is priced in the same range as the H1.
Cambridge Audio
Cambridge Audio is a British hi-fi company whose CXN100 network streamer is a comparable product in the market.
The details
The H1 uses twin 32-bit ESS SABRE ES9039Q2M DAC chips, a dual-stage jitter-rejection architecture, and a custom power supply with four isolated rails. It supports playback from USB 3.0 storage and NAS drives and includes Tidal Connect, Spotify Connect, Qobuz Connect, AirPlay 2, and TuneIn, with a black aluminium chassis and a 5.5-inch HD colour screen.
Timeline
- November 6, 2026: Silent Angel announces the H1.
- December 2026: The H1 becomes available for purchase.
Roadmap
The H1 sits among network streamers such as the Bluesound Node Icon and Cambridge Audio CXN100, which are priced at or above £899. By pricing a combined streamer and DAC at £849, Silent Angel positions the H1 as a lower-cost option within that competitive group.
The H1 becomes available for purchase in December at £849, giving listeners a single unit that handles both streaming and digital-to-analogue conversion. Buyers can stream from Tidal, Spotify, Qobuz, AirPlay 2, and TuneIn or play files from USB 3.0 storage and NAS drives.
The takeaway
For listeners weighing a streamer and DAC, the H1 offers a single-box option at £849 that supports high-resolution formats and several streaming services. Comparing its sound with rival units before purchase remains advisable.
Further reading
Explore more hi-fi coverage in the Classical section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by What Hi-Fi?.
