What is the db loss 8-way splitter anyways? Is it an active or passive splitter? We've used either a passive splitter if levels past the splitter were still with in -8 to +8db. Or an active splitter if it was under -8db. Though the active splitter we used didn't add any db, the only made it even to what went in. AKA Unity gain amp.

So if the signal was 0db, and you put an passive 8-way in. It would've taken away 15db on each output. Whereas an active 8-way wouldn't take away anything, it would've kept it at 0db.

Here's an active 8-way... [Link: extreme-broadband.com]

Note the blue tip that is at 3.5db loss? That is there for the modem/phone. Because if the house were to lose power, the modem/phone will still be able to use the cable signal. If, however, it was on one of the other outputs it would lose the cable signal. (Unless you have the power brick for this thing plugged into an UPS/generator.) Besides, the battery back up for the cable in the neighborhood last about 6 to 8 hours.

KOT