Hardware recommendations

[sw rec]

I just got a screamin’ deal on a Sonnet 3-slot TB to PCI-E chassis. One slot for my UA OCTO card, and the remaining 2 to be filled with pci-e to m.2 cards. I plan on Samsung EVO 970 M.2 “drives.” Looking for solid recommendations for either a pair of 1-drive cards, or a single dual drive card. This will all end up with a Mac
M1 Studio Max at some point, just gathering bits and pieces as I go.
Thanks in advance for your help!

[Darryl Ramm]

Thunderbolt 3 chassis? - "great deals" may be an older Thunderbolt 2 chassis.

Start with single M.2 cards, that leverages the switch in the chassis for flexibility and they are dirt cheap (~$12 each vs. ~$200 for a dual drive card with onboard PCIe switch (which you need).

The single drive adapter card I use (in multiple Sonnet thunderbolt chassis)... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01I5VABFY...sin_title&th=1

[sw rec]

It’s a brand new Sonnet Echo Express SE IIIe 3 PCIe Slot, Thunderbolt 3 Expansion Chassis that Sweetwater had as a “demo.” We use them at my “contract labor” gig…I think there’s one in each of 6 video edit bays, and the boss just loves ‘em!
Thank you for the recommendation, Darryl! Your opinions are highly valued here. I just ordered a pair. Amazon should commission you.

[Darryl Ramm]

I also have a Sonnet Echo Express SE IIIe sitting right in front of me with multiple of those cards and Samsung M.2 980 Pro drives in it. Works fantastic (or as well as slow old Thunderbolt 3/PCIe3 can). Cooling fan in those chassis works just great/is quiet.

[sw rec]

Thanks Darryl! It’s nice to make this jump with solid recommendations from people who know what works.