Pro 3U Rackmount Enclosure with Thunderbolt to PCIe Card Expansion for Mac Studio
A Mac Studio delivers phenomenal processing power, outperforming computers many times its size and price — and includes a robust selection of ports. But how do you integrate a Mac Studio into off-the-desk professional workflows and expand its connectivity beyond what’s available out of the box?
Sonnet xMac Studio integrates a Mac Studio into a compact, rugged steel 3U rackmount enclosure with an optional Thunderbolt to PCIe card expansion module to support diverse audio and video application workflows.
Designed for Expansion
Connect Specialty Audio and Video Cards
Your Choice of System
For many creative professionals, PCIe card expansion for connecting specialty I/O and processing cards to handle audio and video post-production projects is not an option — it’s a necessity! Sonnet designed xMac Studio for pro workflow flexibility; choose a system configured with the Thunderbolt™ to PCIe card expansion module that best suits your needs. xMac Studio is also available without a module so you can add one at a later date, or use one of your existing compatible Sonnet expansion modules.
Echo Expansion Module Features
Versatile PCIe Card Expansion
From low-profile, half-length to full-height, full-length in size, Echo expansion modules support every Thunderbolt-compatible, non-GPU PCIe card available.
400W of Power
Built-in 400W power supply supports power-hungry cards including Avid Pro Tools | HDX, AJA Kona 5, Blackmagic DeckLink 4K Extreme 12G and DeckLink 8K Pro G2, and Deltacast 12G/4C cards. Systems power on and off automatically with the connected Mac Studio.
Quiet Fans
Dual temperature-controlled, variable-speed Noctua fans (rated at 17 dBA) offer ultra-quiet operation.
80 Gbps Thunderbolt Interface
Echo II DV T5 Module Exclusive – Dual 80 Gbps Thunderbolt 5 interfaces offer 6000 MB/s of PCIe bandwidth to each PCIe card
40 Gbps Thunderbolt Interface
Echo II DV Module – Dual 40 Gbps Thunderbolt 3 interfaces offer 2800 MB/s of PCIe bandwidth to each PCIe card.
Echo III Module – Single 40 Gbps Thunderbolt 3 interface offers 2800 MB/s of PCIe bandwidth to the installed PCIe card(s).
Easy Access to Mac Studio and PCIe Card Expansion Module
xMac Studio places your Mac Studio behind a quick and easy to remove front panel. Convenient front panel operation allows you to turn on the computer with its own dedicated front power button, connect USB devices through a 4-port USB-A hub, and access the Studio’s front ports and SD card slot. When equipped with an Echo PCIe Card expansion module, three rear panel locking thumbscrews allow you to easily pull out and access the module and PCIe cards through the front without removing the front panel. The xMac Studio design enables you to connect and disconnect cables without needing to remove the computer from the enclosure.
xMac Studio is designed to allow normal WiFi and Bluetooth wireless operation in most configurations (depending on rack type and position in rack), so you can use wireless devices and iOS device control apps.
Key Features
Connects PCIe Card Slots to Mac Studio
Use high-performance PCIe cards with the Mac Studio. Choose between Thunderbolt 5 or Thunderbolt 3 expansion module.
Makes Your Mac Studio Road-ready
3U rackmount enclosure with firm rubber cushions securely holds the Mac Studio and Thunderbolt expansion module in place, adding mobility to your workflow.
Ideal for Use in Server Rooms
Standard mounting holes and included adjustable rack rails enable easy installation into any standard server rack up to 24" deep.
Front to Back Airflow Management
Supports direct airflow through the enclosure, Mac Studio, and Thunderbolt expansion module to keep them operating as cool in a rack as on a desk, even when xMac Studio is mounted between two other rack-mounted components.
Front Panel Power Button and Integrated USB-A Ports
Front panel button enables operation of the computer’s rear-mounted power switch; integrated USB-A hub connects four USB peripherals to the Mac Studio.
Easy Access
No tools required – removable front panel secured with thumbscrews allows easy installation of and access to the Mac Studio. Secured with three thumbscrews on the back, the Thunderbolt expansion module can be removed and reinstalled through the front of the enclosure without removing the front plate.
Open Slot and Port Access
Provides access to the computer’s SD card slot and front and back panel ports, enabling you to connect and disconnect cables easily.
Space for Storage
Behind a covered opening beneath the computer is a space to place two Thunderbolt or USB SSDs (sold separately); two included adhesive-backed magnets secure them in place.
Sonnet Support
Founded in 1986 in Orange County, Southern California — long recognized as a vibrant hub of technology and engineering — Sonnet has been at the forefront of innovation for nearly four decades. We’ve introduced award-winning products that expand performance and connectivity for Mac, Windows, and other industry-standard computers. Many of our team members have been with us for more than 20 years, bringing unmatched expertise across both current and legacy products. Should you ever need technical support, you can count on our knowledgeable staff to provide the help you need.
Go with the Airflow – Supports the Mac Studio Thermal Design
xMac Studio secures your Mac Studio without trapping it in recirculating hot rack air, supporting its thermal design to keep it as cool in a rack as out on a desk. Ventilation holes on the enclosure’s front panel plus an enclosed chamber beneath the Mac Studio ensures the computer’s ability to draw in cool air through its base, while a completely open back enables it to expel warm air out the back unimpeded.
Space for SSDs
Secure Two Thunderbolt or USB SSDs Under the Mac Studio
xMac Studio provides space beneath the computer to house two Thunderbolt or USB SSDs (sold separately) up to 3.2 inches wide by 0.75 inch tall. Simply remove the rear access panel, apply the supplied adhesive-backed magnet to the bottom of the SSDs, insert the SSDs and connect them to the computer, and then reinstall the panel. The space is also suitable for other thin, bus-powered devices.
