A method of assembling an ultrasound catheter includes providing an elongated catheter body having a proximal end, a distal end, and at least one lumen extending longitudinally therethrough; coupling a proximal housing to the proximal end of the elongated catheter body, the proximal housing having a distal bore; inserting an ultrasound transmission member through the lumen of the catheter body; positioning a sonic connector on the proximal end of the ultrasound transmission member for connecting the ultrasound transmission member to a separate ultrasound generating device at a connection location, the sonic connector having a proximal section and a front portion, the proximal portion provided for connection to the separate ultrasound generating device; connecting the front portion of the sonic connector to the proximal end of the ultrasound transmission member; and retaining an absorber inside the distal bore of the proximal housing wherein the absorber substantially surrounds the ultrasound transmission member.