Sonorit, based in San Francisco with offices in Denmark and Sweden, was formed in 2005 by ex-employees of Global IP Sound (GIPS). Skype already uses GIPS' SoundWare product, which embeds voice processing technology for IP networks, according to Skype spokesperson Lisa Hempel. AOL, MSN and other VoIP players also use GIPS technology.

The deal, which includes 700,000 shares of eBay stock, is part of Skype's "ongoing efforts to create the best possible audio and video experience for users," Hempel said. Jupiter Research analyst Joe Lazlo said the buy means Skype is ramping up its quality of service.

As Skype moves beyond the stage where the VoIP service was tethered to a computer and expands into a commercial offering with SkypeOut and SkypeIn services, quality of service has become a crucial factor. Lazlo noted that Skype is trying to move closer to VoIP leader Vonage with the deal.

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