xMac mini (2024+)/Echo III

Pro Modular 2U Rackmount Plus Thunderbolt to PCIe Card Expansion System for Mac mini (2024+)

Maximize Your Workflow – Connect Demanding Audio and Video Cards to Your Mac mini

The latest Mac mini delivers outstanding processing power, outperforming computers multiple times its miniscule size and price, but raw performance is not enough for every task. Take for instance off-the-desk pro workflows — you’ll need to secure the computers and a way to add more connectivity and processing capabilities than minis offers onboard. 

xMac mini (2024+) systems make it possible to seamlessly integrate one or two Mac minis into a compact, rugged steel 2U rackmount enclosure that houses a dedicated computer mounting module alongside a Thunderbolt to PCIe card expansion module, delivering the connectivity and performance required for demanding audio, video, and broadcast workflows.

xMac mini (2024+)/Echo III System

xMac mini (2024+)/Echo III is a versatile preconfigured expansion system that includes a 2U rackmount enclosure that houses two expansion modules: xMac mini (2024+) Module (for connecting Mac mini computers), and Echo III Module (that supports up to three full-height, full-length PCIe cards). The system  is configured to support the connection of three PCIe cards to a single Mac mini, and is certified for Avid Pro Tools | HDX cards.

System Configuration Specs

xMac mini (2024+) Module

• Module for adding up to two Mac minis
• Front power buttons
• Front panel USB-C port (to rear Mac mini, if installed)
• Front panel cable passthrough (for connecting devices to either Mac mini through front)
• Power hub (single power connection for one or two Mac minis)
• SSD storage space (for up to two external SSD drives)

Echo III Module

• Connects to Mac mini via one Thunderbolt cable
• Installed in enclosure expansion bay
• Features three PCIe 3.1 slots
• Supports three full-height, full-length PCIe cards
• Supports up to three Avid Pro Tools | HDX Cards
• Two 40Gbps Thunderbolt ports
• 400W power supply (with 75W aux. power connector)
• Dual Noctua quiet fans(rated at 17 dbA)

System Includes

• Two power cables
• 40Gbps Thunderbolt cable
• ThunderLok-A connector lock

Control and Connect – Easy Access to Mac minis and PCIe Card Expansion Module

xMac mini (2024+) keeps your Mac minis safely tucked away while providing easy-to-use power buttons for each one — so you can turn them on and off with just a press. Access is provided to the front ports on the mini mounted in front. A USB-C port provides a connection to the mini mounted in the rear, while a cable passthrough on the front panel enables connection of peripherals to either computer. The computer mounting and PCIe card expansion modules are secured with two rear panel thumbscrews each, enabling you to easily pull out and access the modules and installed computers and PCIe cards through the front of the enclosure. The xMac mini (2024+) design enables you to connect and disconnect cables without needing to remove the computers from the modules.

xMac mini (2024+) 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.

Echo III Expansion Module

Echo III is a 3-slot Thunderbolt to PCIe expansion module designed for high-performance PCIe card connectivity. From low-profile, half-length to full-height, full-length in size, Echo III Module supports every Thunderbolt-compatible, non-GPU PCIe card available. View PDF of supported PCIe cards. The module features 40Gbps Thunderbolt interface, a powerful 400W power supply, ultra-quiet Noctua fans rated at just 17 dBA, and a rugged aluminum enclosure for durable, secure protection.

Well Ventilated – Supports the Mac mini Thermal Design

xMac mini (2024+) enclosure system secures your Mac minis without trapping them in recirculating hot rack air, supporting their thermal design to keep them as cool in a rack as out on a desk. Ventilation holes on the xMac mini module’s front panel plus enclosed chambers beneath the computers ensures their ability to draw in cool air through their bases, while a completely open back enable them to expel warm air out the back unimpeded.

Space for External SSDs – Secure Two Thunderbolt or USB SSDs Beneath the Mac minis

Space is provided beneath the computers to store two Thunderbolt or USB SSDs (sold separately) up to 3.2 inches wide by 0.75 inch tall. The space is also suitable for other thin, bus-powered devices.

Ready for the Road – Your Workflow Made Mobile

Do you need to take your workflow on the road? xMac mini (2024+) is a perfect travel solution. Its 16.5-inch mounting depth – plus brackets with firm rubber cushions that securely hold your Mac minis in place during transport – make xMac mini (2024+) perfect for use in molded rack cases from Gator Cases, fly racks from SKB Cases, or most any travel rack.

Key Features

• Connects Three PCIe Card Slots– Use high-performance PCIe cards with the Mac mini computers.
• Makes Your Mac minis Road-ready – A rugged, steel-framed module with rubber-cushioned brackets securely holds Mac minis in place. The 2U rackmount enclosure houses both the computer mounting module and the Thunderbolt expansion module, enhancing mobility and streamlining your workflow.
• Perfect 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 Panel Power Buttons – Front panel buttons enable easy and reliable operation of the Mac minis’ bottom-mounted power buttons.
• Port and Slot Access –Direct access to the front ports of the front-mounted mini is provided. A front panel USB-C port connects to the rear-mounted mini. A passthrough opening enables cable connections to both minis. Full access is available to all ports on the back of each computer.
• Front to Back Airflow Management – Supports direct airflow through the Mac minis and Thunderbolt expansion module to keep them operating as cool in a rack as on a desk, even when xMac mini (2024+) is mounted between two other rack-mounted components.
• Easy Access – Secured with two thumbscrews each to the back of the enclosure, the xMac mini (2024+) Module and Thunderbolt expansion module can be removed and reinstalled through the front of the enclosure.
• Power Hub – Single power connection for one or two Mac minis.
• Space for Storage – Beneath the computers, space to place two Thunderbolt or USB SSDs (sold separately) is provided.
• Compatibility – Mac mini (2024+).
• Dimensions (WxDxH): 23 x 22 x 8.5 in. (48.3 x 41.9 x 13.2 cm).
• Weight: 29 lbs (13.15 kg).
• Package Contents –2U rackmount enclosure; xMac mini (2024+) Module; Echo III Module (3-slot Thunderbolt to PCIe card expansion); two region-specific power cables; 6-pin auxiliary power cable; 0.8-meter Thunderbolt cable; ThunderLok-A connector lock; extension rails for rack depth 16-24 inches; and documentation.
• Warranty –2-year product warranty.
• Customer Support – Free lifetime customer technical support.
• The Sonnet Advantage – Innovating technology since 1986.

Note: Computers and accessories featured in photos are not included with the product. Product specifications are subject to change without notice.