Sonnet has announced the DuoModo line of professional, modular Thunderbolt expansion systems for desktop and rack installations.
The DuoModo line is comprised of three interchangeable expansion modules. A three-slot PCIe card system, eGPU card system, and a Mac mini mounting system with an integrated 40Gbps Thunderbolt storage dock.
There are also two enclosure options, dual-module housings (one desktop and one rackmount), and a single-module desktop housing. Sonnet will also offer four pre-configured systems to simplify the order process for the most popular combinations of modules and enclosures. All modules are Thunderbolt 3 and Thunderbolt 4 compatible.
The DuoModo line addresses the particular requirements of audio, video, and broadcast users. Users can now configure a system to fit their specific needs, creating a range of combinations such as a system housing two GPU cards or six PCIe cards to connect to their computers with Thunderbolt 3 or 4 ports, or another with a Mac mini plus one GPU card or three PCIe cards.
So what do the modules do?
DuoModo Echo III Module
This module (the same one used in Sonnet’s Echo III Desktop and Echo III Rackmount systems announced at the end of 2020) features one x16 and two x8 PCIe 3.0 slots. It accommodates full-height, full-length (up to 12.28 inches long) PCIe cards which are connected to a computer’s Thunderbolt port via the included 0.7-meter Thunderbolt 3 (40Gbps) cable. The module integrates a universal 400W power supply and includes a 75W auxiliary power connector for non-GPU cards that require extra power. The module includes a mode switch that enables the use of three Avid Pro Tools|HDX PCIe cards, and features Noctua cooling fans for ultra-quiet operation.
DuoModo eGPU Module
This module supports up to full-length, full-height, 2.5 slot-width GPU cards, and it utilizes dual temperature-controlled, variable-speed Noctua fans that provide efficient and ultra-quiet cooling for the installed card. Sonnet designed this new expansion module with the goal of offering users a future-proof purchase, equipping it with an 800W power supply capable of supporting the most power-hungry GPU cards available.
DuoModo xMac mini Module
This module securely holds an Intel or M1 Mac mini computer to enable mounting it in a desktop or rackmount enclosure. It also provides open access to its rear ports. The module’s built-in Thunderbolt 3 (40Gbps) storage dock provides users with four front panel connections consisting of three 10Gbps USB ports (two Type-C ports and one Type A port, each capable of powering bus-powered devices), and one Thunderbolt 3 (40Gbps) port. An internal USB Type A port is provided for connection of a software license dongle, such as an iLok USB-A, or a thumb drive. The dock also incorporates two M.2 NVMe PCIe SSD sockets to enable users to add up to 16TB of fast storage to their systems.
DuoModo Dual-module Desktop and Rackmount Enclosures
Holding any two of the DuoModo modules, the desktop enclosure measures 6.9 inches wide by 16.7 inches deep by 9.1 inches tall. The dual-module 2U rackmount enclosure is the same one used in the Echo III Rackmount system. It measures 19 inches wide by 16.5 inches deep by 3.5 inches tall.
DuoModo Single-module Desktop Enclosure: This housing is the same one used in the Echo III Desktop system. It measures 3.5 inches wide by 16.7 inches deep by 9 inches tall and holds any one of the DuoModo modules.
DuoModo Preconfigured Systems
Four systems are available. Each includes an xMac mini Module plus either an Echo III Module or an eGPU Module, and a dual-module desktop or rackmount enclosure.
Price & Availability
The DuoModo product line is available now from Sonnet and channel partners. Part numbers and pricing are available on the Sonnet website.
Additional modules are planned to be released in the future.
