Application example | The Sonnet Echo II DV Desktop TB 5 in use with a Mac mini as a compact PCIe workstation
Thunderbolt 5 power for real PCIe workflows on the desktop
The Sonnet Echo II DV Desktop Thunderbolt 5 PCIe Card System is the clean solution for all those who work with the latest Macs, mini desktops or powerful computers, but cannot do without real PCIe cards. Video I or Audio DSP, fast networks or NVMe storage need bandwidth and that's exactly what this system delivers to the desktop without compromise.
Maximum PCIe performance via Thunderbolt 5
Inside, there are two full PCIe 4.0 slots, each connected via its own Thunderbolt 5 interface. Each slot has its own full PCIe bandwidth of up to 6000 MB per second. No sharing, no bottlenecks, no bottlenecks. Ideal for two demanding DV cards, fast capture solutions or combined video and network workflows. If you use a MacBook Pro M4, Mac mini M4 Pro or Mac Studio, you can really get the most out of the Thunderbolt ports.
Two cards at full load simultaneously
The Echo II DV Desktop is designed to operate two high-bandwidth cards in parallel and in a stable manner. Whether AJA, Blackmagic, Avid HDX or fast PCIe storage cards, each card runs as if it were plugged directly into the computer. Alternatively, the two slots can even be connected to two different computers. Practical for studios that want to work versatile or share Hardware.
Flexible connection with one or two cables
If your computer has two Thunderbolt ports with their own bus, you can connect each side separately and get maximum performance per slot. If only one Thunderbolt or USB4 port is available, the two Thunderbolt interfaces can be looped through internally and the system runs via a single cable. This also makes the Echo II DV Desktop extremely interesting for compact setups.
Quiet enough for the studio
Despite its high performance, the system remains pleasantly unobtrusive. Two temperature-controlled Noctua fans ensure reliable cooling at just 17 dBA. This means that the Echo II DV Desktop can easily be used in the control room or right next to the editing suite without disturbing recording or editing.
Power supply for real professional cards
An integrated 400 watt power supply unit reliably supplies even hungry PCIe cards. An additional 75-watt PCIe power connection is available for each slot. The system switches on and off automatically with the computer, without a power button and without unnecessary energy consumption.
Thunderbolt 5 as the center of the setup
In addition to the connection of the PCIe cards, the system offers further Thunderbolt ports for peripherals. Additional Thunderbolt devices, fast USB drives or displays can be integrated here. Bus power is also available for connected devices, which keeps the workstation clear and versatile.
Robust design for everyday use
The lightweight, sturdy aluminium housing reliably protects the built-in Hardware and fits perfectly into modern studio environments. The included Thunderbolt 5 cables and ThunderLok fuses ensure that everything stays firmly connected even during hectic sessions.
Made for modern production environments
The Sonnet Echo II DV Desktop Thunderbolt 5 PCIe Card System is aimed at professional video and audio users who want to get maximum performance out of compact computers. or broadcast studio, post-production, recording or Live streaming, this system turns a Thunderbolt computer into a full-fledged PCIe workstation on the desktop.
Scope of delivery:
Echo II DV Desktop Thunderbolt 5 PCIe Card System
Power cable
Two 6-pin PCIe auxiliary power cables, already installed in the device
Two Thunderbolt 5 cables with 0.8 meter length
Three ThunderLok A fuses for Thunderbolt connections
System requirements:
Windows
Windows 11 Computer
Thunderbolt 5 Thunderbolt 4 or USB4 ports
Two Thunderbolt 5 ports with independent PCIe connection are recommended for maximum performance
Linux
Linux computer with kernel 6.1 or 6.12
Thunderbolt 5 Thunderbolt 4 or USB4 ports
Mac
Mac with macOS 14 or newer
Thunderbolt 5 Thunderbolt 4 Thunderbolt USB4 or Thunderbolt 3 ports
For maximum performance with two bandwidth-hungry PCIe cards, two Thunderbolt 5 ports, each with its own PCIe bandwidth, are recommended
Compatible with macOS Tahoe
Manufacturer information
Sonnet Technologies, Inc. 25 Empire Drive 92630 Lake Forest, California USA support@sonnettech.com https://www.sonnettech.com/support +1 949-587-3500 EU economic operator Comline GmbH Lise-Meitner-Str. 16 24941 Flensburg Germany info@comline-shop.de https://www.comline-shop.de/kontakt/ +49 461 77303-300