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Latin GRAMMY®-nominated Colombian Artist Annasofia Called on KRK Kreate for Debut EP

As an artist, producer, and composer, Colombian native Annasofia has been inspired by music since an early age, taking up drums at seven and writing songs by nine. After studying production at college in Bogotá, she moved to Miami’s vibrant music community to take advantage of a mentorship opportunity with Julio Reyes at Art House Academy. With a musical style that’s described as a combination of rhythmic pop, beat-driven rap, and off-kilter power ballads, Annasofia released her debut EP, “Primer Intento,” on October 2, earning herself a “Best New Artist” nomination at the 2025 Latin GRAMMY® Awards.

From her early days in Colombia to her latest album, one constant has always shaped her sound: KRK Studio Monitors. “The first monitors that I used were KRKs,” she says. “Those ROKIT 5s are still in my studio in Colombia. They helped me make all my first productions, so I have a deep love for KRK.”

When the time came to build a creative setup at her new apartment in Miami, Annasofia selected the KRK Kreate 5 Studio Monitors, which she says felt like reconnecting with an old friend. Only, this version has some new tricks, with the Bluetooth feature surprising her the most. “Sometimes, you just want to check a mix quickly without connecting the whole interface,” she explains. “The Bluetooth connectivity on the Kreates makes that super easy.”

As a home producer, Annasofia’s setup is in her living room, which she shares with a roommate. “My living room is tiny, so having monitors that don’t take over the whole space is a huge benefit,” she adds. “The Kreate 5s fit right in. They are small and stylish, and just blend right into my space without turning my home into a studio, but they also deliver the clarity, punch, and emotional accuracy that I need.” 

Since she is a drummer, Annasofia also checks every mix by how the bass hits in her chest, often comparing her tracks to her favorite Kendrick Lamar tracks for a gut-level reference. Even with no acoustic treatment in her space, the Kreate 5s provide the imaging and balance Annasofia needs to make final tweaks before taking her mix to the studio. “No one listens to my music in a perfectly treated room,” she jokes. “So, working here actually helps me get closer to how people will really hear it.”

Three of the songs on her newest EP were finished using the Kreate 5s, including one produced entirely in her living room. For playback checks, late-night revisions, and the emotional fine-tuning that shapes her storytelling, the Kreates have become part of her daily rhythm.

Even off-stage and out of the studio, KRK is making its mark on Annasofia’s creative process. Before releasing her EP, she took her music to the streets of New York to have strangers listen to her songs and provide their feedback, using her KRK KNS-6402 Headphones to showcase her talents. “It was super cool — I was talking about my music with random people, and many of them asked me about the headphones,” she explains. “They really liked how comfortable they were, and how great they sounded. I loved that experience.”

Beyond monitoring, the Kreates also help provide playback for gatherings and the occasional guilt-tinged moment of using them as home speakers. “They tempt me, but I keep the volume low, so I don’t blast them and bother neighbors,” Annasofia adds.

KRK and its parent brand, Gibson, have played a meaningful role in supporting Annasofia’s artistic journey. In addition to the KRK gear, she uses an Epiphone guitar on her records. “Everyone at the company is always so supportive,” she says. “It’s powerful to see brands like KRK backing women producers. They have supported my dreams, and I’m grateful.”

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MAD Arts advances curiosity in art and technology with KRK ROKIT 10-3 Studio Monitors

Audio Engineer Erik Aldrey installs Dolby Atmos room at immersive art museum in South Florida

DANIA BEACH, FL, JULY 28, 2025 ― MAD Arts, a pioneering immersive art museum and community hub, recently completed the installation of a state-of-the-art Atmos® playback system using KRK ROKIT™ G4 10-3 Studio Monitors. This system enhances the auditory experience of one of its many exhibitions, “On Being,” by acclaimed Electronic Composer and Multi-disciplinary Artist Max Cooper, Fine Artist Minjeong An and Creative Coding and New Media Artist Ksawery Kirklewski, in collaboration with talented Audio Engineer Erik Aldrey.

On Being by Max Cooper, Ksawery Komputery, Minjeong An for IGNITE Broward at MAD Arts Dania Beach. Photographs by RodrigoGaya.com/Gayaman Visual Studio LLC 3.13.25 – IGNITE Broward – MAD Arts

Located in a 50,000-square-foot facility in South Florida, MAD Arts is at the forefront of merging art and technology. The museum supports visionary projects that push the boundaries of creativity, and “On Being” is no exception. The exhibition invites attendees to express their innermost thoughts in a unique, real-time interactive experience, which is enhanced by Aldrey’s expertly designed sound system.

Aldrey, who specializes in mixing and mastering, took on the challenge of designing the fully immersive audio setup utilizing the museum’s existing stock of 28 ROKIT G4 10-3 monitors. “KRK worked so well in the room and sounded incredible as a PA speaker,” he says. “The 10-3s have a large bandwidth and sound close to the full range that Dolby® wants you to have for a setup. This made the installation easier because we could depend on fewer subs to fill the room.”

On Being by Max Cooper, Ksawery Komputery, Minjeong An for IGNITE Broward at MAD Arts Dania Beach. Photographs by RodrigoGaya.com/Gayaman Visual Studio LLC 2.18.25 – Ignite Broward Arts Park & MAD Arts

Aldrey also shared, “I discovered that I could achieve the essential home theater calibration of Dolby using the 10-3s, which streamlined the installation process beautifully. The ROKITs are powerful enough to fill the art exhibit space with vibrant sound.”

The immersive audio-visual experience allows exhibition-goers to connect more personally with the narrative unfolding around them. By scanning a QR code, attendees can contribute their thoughts, enriching the communal dialogue inspired by the display. “Everyone who has come to view the immersive room loves the ROKITs. They are great speakers,” Aldrey adds, highlighting the positive response he received about visitors’ experiences.

“Getting the chance to sit and really absorb the sound of the ROKITs in the room, you start to hear the little nuances, and it makes a huge difference in the audio quality,” says Marc Aptakin, Founder of MAD Arts. “The KRKs truly exceeded my expectations.”

MAD Arts is dedicated to making art accessible for all and believes in leveraging technology for social good. With its commitment to educational initiatives and inclusive programming, the museum continues to foster a lively community that champions creativity, innovation, and collaboration.

Aldrey has over 30 years of experience in mixing and mastering, with various collaborations such as mixing for the 2019 Latin GRAMMY® Alternative song “Tócamela” by Los Amigos Invisibles and two Emmy nominations for mixing the documentary “America First — Postville.” He first received notoriety in 2000, when he was nominated for a GRAMMY® and Latin GRAMMY®, both as recording and mix engineer. After mixing several more albums, he received a Latin GRAMMY® nomination in 2014 for “Record of the Year” for his mastering work on “Escultura” by Guaco. Aldrey has worked with artists including Duran Duran, Ladytron, Stereophonics, Soul Coughing, Tom Vek, and Superthriller, among others.

A talented electronic composer and multi-disciplinary artist, Cooper is also a music label founder and former scientist who has carved out a unique space in music and visual art. He has used his over 15 years of experience in music and collaborations, as well as through his label Mesh, to explore the intersections between the arts and sciences with installations, performances, immersive experiences, online media, music videos, and live events.

Born in Chorwon and based in Seoul,  Minjeong completed her residency program in Korea at the Cheongju Art Studio. She has exhibited on her own throughout Korea and as part of group exhibitions in Korea, Taiwan, China, the United Kingdom, Poland, and the United States. Kirklewski is the author of interactive light installations, music videos, generative animations, physical art pieces, and projects in public spaces. He uses new technologies, programming, and advertising media, focusing mostly on the digital and generative art field.

MAD Arts invites the general public to visit, experience various exhibitions, and become immersed in a groundbreaking blend of art and technology, including the current “On Being” display. For more information about MAD Arts and upcoming exhibitions, visit: yeswearemadarts.com.

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Platinum Producer Johhny G taps KRK GoAux

 Brand’s mobile monitors provide next-level portability and sound in music production

MIAMI, JULY 8, 2025 ― Billboard-charting, platinum-selling Artist, Producer, and Creative Visionary Johhny G is making waves in the music industry. He started one of TikTok’s biggest dance trends of 2020 and the viral Chinese New Year Remix #vibechallenge. Known for his genre-defying style and catchy hits, Johnny G is turning heads with his new KRK GoAux 4 Portable Studio Monitor setup, which is as dynamic as his sound.

Best known for working with iconic talent like YG Marley on songs like “Praise Jah in the Moonlight,” Johhny G’s production toolkit just got a powerful upgrade. A long-time user of KRK’s ROKIT 10-3 Powered Studio Monitors, Johnny G has now also embraced the ultra-portable GoAux, and he’s not looking back. “I like the GoAux because they are compact and convenient,” he says. “The carrying case makes it super easy to travel and transport where I need to go, and the sound is great as well.”

From impromptu beat-making sessions to vibing out with mixes, Johhny G appreciates the flexibility and uncompromised audio quality that KRK brings to his creative workflow. “I use the GoAux mainly for home mixing sessions,” he explains. “I will set the monitors up and make beats from anywhere — the kitchen, balcony, you name it.”

Beyond just production, the GoAux monitors have become a crucial tool for Johhny G for playback and referencing. “My KRKs have good, clear sound and have helped me in my creative process,” he adds. “At the end of the day, I want everything to sound good, whether that’s through headphones or in the car, and these monitors help make sure of that.”

Of course, it’s not just about sound — it’s also about the vibe. “I enjoy the aesthetics of KRK in general,” Johhny G adds. “The look of the monitors is cool, and the bright yellow cones really stands out.”

With humble beginnings in South Florida, Johhny G’s journey as an artist and producer began in high school, when he first dove into the depths of music-making. Since then, he has grown into a multifaceted creator who doesn’t believe in genres or labels, just great sound and boundless creativity. “KRK was the first pair of speakers I ever owned,” Johhny G reflects. “I grew up using them, and they really helped me find my sound.”

Whether it’s through his viral hits or high-energy TikTok dance challenges, Johhny G continues to push musical boundaries. His upcoming single, “Human,” is set to drop on July 11, and you can bet it’s been fine-tuned on a pair of KRKs.

Johhny G has had a passion for music since he was a child, learning various instruments, singing in the school choir, and making beats in his college dorm room, which is where he discovered his love for mixing. Music has also been a way for him to bond with his dad, who he says, “worked a lot of Saturday nights and would be off playing music for hours. Music has always kept us connected.”

As someone with a passion for both creating and producing music, Johhny G is a unique artist with a strong ear for quality sound and diverse musical interests. Instead of trying to box himself into a certain category, Johhny G leaves it up to his music and creates based on feeling, regardless of what label it suits. With his KRKs by his side, Johhny G continues to create with endless possibilities for what comes next.

Check out more of what Johhny G is up to on his social channels @JohhnyG__.

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KRK ROKIT and GoAux monitors revolutionize sound and creativity for TUMBAO

World Sounds Event & DJ Collective Founder Albert Piedrahita sets the stage for sonic innovation

MIAMI, MAY 19, 2025 ― During his rise as a DJ and Event Producer, Albert Piedrahita recognized a gap in the local nightlife that was waiting to be explored. He was inspired by his relocation to Los Angeles, which had a lively, thriving music scene and encouraged him to start TUMBAO. A homegrown, Miami-based DJ collective that brings people together through culture, dance, and sound from around the world, TUMBAO invites seasoned dancers and curious newcomers alike to join the rhythm and feel the joy of community. Driven by a vision to ignite a revolution in sound and culture, TUMBAO breaks away from the ordinary to redefine expectations and leave audiences hungry for more.

“I wanted to integrate music from around the world into one party; TUMBAO is a culmination of all those different sounds,” explains Piedrahita, who recently celebrated the Third Anniversary of this innovative DJ collective. “We’ve seen such a big success with our events because we honor all the diverse music and individuals under one roof, which makes for a unique dynamic. We’ve also taken the experience to different cities around the U.S. and the world. This year’s Miami anniversary event was especially important; it was the first time we had a major sponsor and our largest party to date.”

With such a lively event and uplifting experience as TUMBAO, Piedrahita needs reliable equipment to create powerful sound both in his studio and on the road. As a longtime KRK user, he recentlyacquired the brand’s new ROKIT Generation 5 Powered Studio Monitors and GoAux Portable Studio Monitors, which he uses along with hisexisting ROKIT 8 G3 Powered Studio Monitors. He has two setups at home that utilize his KRK gear: one for DJ practice and the other for making remixes and casual listening.

With the KRK speakers providing powerful sound, the atmosphere at the TUMBAO events is electric, inviting everyone present to dance and immerse themselves in the vibrant rhythms that echo throughout the venues. “KRK plays a big role in every stage of music setup; we use the speakers to create our edits in the studio, and the monitors are also present at the DJ booth,” shares Piedrahita.

Having developed familiarity with the features and capabilities of the KRK ROKITs, Piedrahita believes the monitors enhance all music production projects. “The ROKITs are trustworthy, and I love the sound response; they are affordable as well. You really can’t beat them; they go everywhere with me,” he shares. “When I was first learning to DJ, I visited a friend who had a pair of ROKITs, and I thought they sounded great. As I met more people in the industry, I noticed a lot of peers had similar setups. KRK monitors are great for collaborating and are terrific for consistency, which I appreciate.”

To complement his setup, Piedrahita recently incorporated the KRK GoAux for fast and efficient references. “I love the GoAux because I can easily swap between using them with Bluetooth or through the interface. I use them for my smaller, indoor DJ sets; they power a room easily,” he says. “They are also easy to transport, so I can take them with me if I want to work on the road. They are amazing portable speakers, and I love the power behind them.”

Having collaborated extensively with KRK over the years, Piedrahita has forged a strong relationship with the team. These connections have deepened through shared experiences and a commitment to common goals. “The KRK Miami team is like family to me, and I don’t say that lightly,” he adds. “When I first told Cesar [Acevedo, Director of Artist Relations — U.S. Hispanic and Latin America, Gibson] about TUMBAO, he took the time to come out and see what the collective is all about and was inspired by what I was doing. After that, I became part of the team, representing KRK as a Latino and a DJ.”

TUMBAO draws inspiration from the Afro-Latin roots of late Cuban legend Celia Cruz, who popularized the word tumbao, which refers to one’s inner rhythm or groove. With TUMBAO’s sound influenced by reggaeton, dembow, dancehall, salsa, afro beats, and more, Piedrahita is excited to see the event continue to unite people of diverse cultures and backgrounds. In addition to its annual mecca to its home base in Miami, TUMBAO also makes regular rotations to New York, Los Angeles, Las Vegas, Chicago, San Juan, Mexico City, and Medellĺn.

More details about Tumbao’s schedule can be found on the group’s Instagram page: instagram.com/tamotumbao/.

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Top Track Studios unleashes sound innovation with KRK

Studio’s Owner and Lead Engineer, Gibran Sponchiado, elevates Nashville’s music experience with GoAux Portable Studio Monitors

NASHVILLE, MARCH 31, 2025 ― Now in its fifth year, Top Track Studios has been thriving as one of Music City’s prime recording studios. Designed to enhance the city’s evolving sound, the facility has been acoustically set up with creativity, comfort, and elegance in mind. It boasts a wide selection of top audio equipment, from the well-known classic pieces found in all major studios to the newest technologies available today. Additionally, Top Track Studios prides itself on its commitment to service, ensuring that it respects a musician’s artistry by honoring their needs and vision.

“We are heavy on analog processing here at Top Track,” says Studio Owner, CEO, and Lead Engineer Gibran Sponchiado. “Our amazing outboard equipment and microphone collection make us passionate about the type of work we do. Services at the studio include live tracking of full bands; vocal recording and production; mixing; producing solo artists; and recording ADR and voice-over.”

To support this vast array of projects at Top Track, Sponchiado relies on a multi-speaker setup, which features a pair of KRK GoAux 4 Portable Studio Monitors for referencing in his control room, as well as creating seamless communication with remote collaborators. Notably, KRK’s parent company, Gibson, has recorded promotional videos for the new Les Paul Studio Guitars at Top Track.

“The KRK GoAux sound great and have balanced frequency response, despite the small size,” says Sponchiado. “In a studio, you always need a speaker that can handle loud sounds with extra headroom to avoid distortion on loud transients. When I first sought a small set of speakers for the studio, a friend of mine suggested trying out the GoAux. I bought myself a pair, and they are a great addition to Top Track’s setup.”

Sponchiado goes on to explain that his team also relies on the GoAux speakers for sessions with remote clients. “If we are working with a producer in California who wants to direct the recording sessions in real-time, it’s important to have our client’s feed in an alternative set of speakers in order to separate the communication from the actual session material.”

Sponchiado also admires the sleek design and modern aesthetics of the KRK GoAux monitors, finding their appearance both appealing and distinctive. “The GoAux matches the vision of the studio and goes great with the wooden elements we have throughout the space,” he adds. “We want to make art here at Top Track, and it is important to have speakers that make an impact on the artists and people who come here, both visually and auditorily. The GoAux speakers are equipped with Bluetooth® capabilities, which allow us to quickly let clients play some of their music from their phones or laptops without having to hook up anything physically.”

A devoted audio enthusiast and true maestro of analog gear, Sponchiado blends his wealth of audio expertise with his passion for music and has forged a reputation for excellence over his extensive 20-year career. As a highly skilled Brazilian Producer and Recording/Mixing Engineer, Sponchiado also specializes in serving the region’s Latin communities, bringing a unique cultural perspective and deep understanding of diverse musical styles to his work. Artists looking to elevate their sound will ask to collaborate with Sponchiado because of his commitment to quality and creativity.

Sponchiado got his start as an audio engineer in 2004. He earned a bachelor’s in music education from Universidade Estadual do Rio Grande do Sul (UERGS) in Brazil in 2008 and an MFA in recording arts and technologies from Middle Tennessee State University (MTSU) in 2016. Some of his past clients include R&B artist Jeremih, Pedro Capó (Sony Music), Rome Ramirez, Brittney Spencer (Elektra Entertainment), Finesse2tymes (Atlantic Records), rapper Rocko, actress Ariel Winter, and actors Luke Benward and Chris Mason. Record labels Top Track worked for include Sony Music, Universal Music, Warner Music, Atlantic Records, and 300 Entertainment, among others. He’s also done ADR and voiceover sessions for production companies such as Monster Factory (Resident Evil Franchise) and Wolf Studios (Doctor Who).

Today, Sponchiado approaches every session with a commitment to precision and quality that ensures each project not only meets but exceeds expectations, making him an asset in the world of sound and for Top Track Studios clients.

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Dylan Newman amplifies artist development with KRK’s GoAux Portable and ROKIT 8 Generation Five Studio Monitors  

LOS ANGELES, FEBRUARY 11, 2025 ― Dylan Newman, Manager of Music and Talent at Nickelodeon and Artist Manager at NewManagement, is elevating his artist development strategy and audio production quality with KRK GoAux Portable Monitors and ROKIT 8 Generation Five Studio Monitors. With a rich history in artist discovery, development, and management, Dylan’s hands-on approach to audio finds perfect synergy with the KRK solutions, which are essential tools in his creative process.

Newman’s music journey began early, from self-taught drums and guitar to discovering his passion for music behind the scenes. Starting out as part of Purdue University’s Student Concert Committee, he quickly learned the ins and outs of concert promotion by working with high-profile acts like Luke Bryan and Macklemore. Newman’s exposure to A&R began with an internship at Sony Music, leading to roles at Columbia Records and Epic Records, where he was fortunate enough to contribute to projects for top artists like Travis Scott, Camila Cabello, and Future. “Artist development is in my blood,” says Newman, a value he extends to emerging talents like LOCS and PIAO at NewManagement and acts like Pressley Hosbach and Young Dylan at Nickelodeon’s music department.

Newman was first introduced to KRK by friends at Gibson, who gave him a first-hand look at KRK’s trusted performance in professional studios and artist setups. “When I first saw the GoAuxes, I recognized how the portability and minimal setup requirements made it easy to ensure audio quality from home to office or anywhere on the road,” he says. “They deliver the same natural and balanced frequency response that has become synonymous with the KRK name in a mobile-friendly package. Meanwhile, the ROKIT 8 Generation Five provides the precision and customization I need for mixing and refining audio to professional standards.”

Newman attributes much of his success to the sonic integrity that his KRK speakers provide. “I love my KRKs,” he continues. “They give my artists and me the clarity we need throughout the recording, mixing, and mastering stages. The GoAux speakers are portable yet powerful, fitting seamlessly into my busy schedule. The ROKIT 8 Generation Fives are my go-to for my home studio, allowing me to dig in and ensure top-quality production for my artists. In addition, the black and gold design is a staple in the industry; it’s become synonymous with quality.”

The KRK ROKIT Generation Five monitors are the most advanced in their class. Whether working on a chart-topping hit, a film score, or a personal project, the ROKITs provide the tools needed to capture every nuance of a user’s sound with astonishing clarity. The monitors’ onboard DSP technology provides three distinct Voicing Modes: Mix Mode, Create Mode, and Focus Mode, eliminating the need for separate sets of monitors for different tasks.

Newman’s dedication to sound is evident in his work at Nickelodeon’s music department, where he develops music for the brand’s record label, manages talent releases, and supports major events like the Kids’ Choice Awards. According to Newman, “Whether I’m listening to demos for Nickelodeon or refining LOCS’s latest tracks, KRK ensures that every sound detail is accurately represented. My partnership with KRK and Gibson has been essential in bringing quality audio to all my projects.”

For more updates on Dylan Newman’s latest work and upcoming projects, follow him on social media at @dylannewman_. His commitment to the music industry is not only in advancing his artists but also in inspiring the next generation of talent and future executives through mentorship and collaboration.

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Cult of Magic creates haunting performances with KRK GoAux

MILAN, JANUARY 29, 2025 ― Cult of Magic is an interdisciplinary artistic collective based in Milan, Italy, specializing in creating immersive performances that blend contemporary dance, music, and performance art into a unique, captivating experience. Known for its innovative approach to exploring profound themes through movement, sound, and light, the group often collaborates with prestigious European cultural institutions. 

The group was founded in 2017 by Composer and Director Francesco Sacco, along with Samira Cogliandro and Giada Vailati, who both choreograph and dance for the collective. The three founding members were later joined by Luca Pasquino, who is also a director and composer.

Cult of Magic’s recent project, “FEAR OF THE DARK – first study,” was performed with an immersive light and sound design, with the goal of heightening and enriching guests’ other senses during the show, which took place inside a former church in Venice. To elevate the musical aspect of their performance, the collective relied on KRK GoAux Portable Studio Monitors to ensure that every note and rhythm resonated beautifully.

Directed by Sacco, Vailati, and Pasquino, “FEAR OF THE DARK” was choreographed and performed by Vailati, while Sacco and Pasquino created the original score. “For this project, we needed a completely different audio system because of the natural reverb of the venue,” says Sacco. “We decided to use KRK speakers not just to compose the original score but also as the PA during the show. We used three pairs of GoAux monitors for the performance, which resulted in a punctual sound and avoided the rumble of a classic stereo sound system in a big space.”

With the GoAux, the team created an immersive atmosphere that captivated the audience. “After studying the church layout, we were able to easily integrate the KRK speakers into the space with four positioned towards the audience and two facing the apse,” adds Pasquino. “The GoAux allowed us to achieve a sound that was immersive and airy but also well-defined.”

Sacco and the members of the Cult of Magic collective consider the GoAux to be unique within its genre. The monitors’ design and capabilities resonate with Cult of Magic’s artistic visions, making the speakers a standout choice for the group’s creative endeavors.

“I found the GoAux to be very defined and sharp; the sound quality is impressive for smaller speakers,” says Sacco. “I have never found portable speakers with such a professional sound level. They also have great volume control despite their size, so that helped us to reach the exact result we wanted for the project. The GoAux are also super light and easy to carry around, which is critical when you have to move around in a city like Venice, with no possibility of transporting your gear by car.”  

With Bluetooth capabilities and an impressive array of features, the monitors offer a perfect blend of convenience and performance that make it an ideal choice when the group is on the go. “The Bluetooth connection works perfectly, even when we are using it with low frequencies; the speakers perform well and deliver a rich and full sound,” says Pasquino. “There’s no comparison to other portable Bluetooth speakers I’ve tried, both in terms of sound balance and definition. Moreover, these speakers allow me to mix music anywhere I want.”

Sacco has been a devoted user of KRK products for years, showcasing a deep familiarity and appreciation for the brand’s offerings. “I learned about KRK from other musicians and colleagues in the industry and have been using the gear for a while now,” he shares. “The first pair of monitors I owned were the KRK ROKITs, which I still use in my home studio today.” Pasquino is also well-acquainted with the brand. “KRK speakers were the first monitors I bought for making music productions,” he explains. “Since then, I have developed a very personal sound, partly because of those speakers, and I still have not replaced them.”

Looking ahead, Cult of Magic is eager to resume its creative momentum by integrating KRK gear into future projects. “All the music we compose for any Cult of Magic project is made on KRK monitors. We want to continue experimenting with spatialized sound using a large number of small speakers,” says Sacco.

The group is currently working on an electronic/techno album, using KRK for composing and mixing. The group also plans to incorporate KRK for its future performances and projects, such as the continuation of “FEAR OF THE DARK.” In the next few months, the group will bring the project to a further development phase that will include a cast of five performers, set design work, and a sound installation that will be inaugurated in Milan next May.

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KRK monitors provide the perfect composition for GRAMMY®-winning Producer, Composer, and Mixer Nicolas Ramirez

The seasoned industry professional creates notable sound for music and TV/film projects

MIAMI, JANUARY 7, 2025 ― GRAMMY- and Latin GRAMMY-winning Producer, Composer, and Mixer Nicolas “Nico” Ramirez has worked with prominent Latin artists such as Bad Bunny, Jennifer Lopez, Shakira, and Marc Anthony, among others. Today, he is the producer, mixing and recording engineer, and live sound engineer for multi-award-winning Artist and Songwriter Camilo, a fellow Colombian. In addition to his credits in the music industry, Ramirez also composes and provides sound design for films, documentaries, TV series, and animated shows.

For Ramirez, music and sound effects have always crisscrossed as a single entity in his creative workflow. His appreciation for the vast array of cultures that span this world and the influence each has on music has continually inspired him to create a unique identity for all his projects. To aid in his mastery, Ramirezrelies on his KRK V4 and V6 V-Series 4 Powered Studio Monitors,which he says, “are very dynamic and rich in sound, so I can always get the right vibe of the track.”  

As someone who focuses on sonic quality, it is critical that Ramirez has a realistic-sounding pair of speakers. “During the mixing process, I need speakers that sound good, and are easy and quick to use,” he explains. “My V6s are not too bright, and they aren’t too low; they work well and sound great. The V4s have a smaller diaphragm that translates well to a variety of listening scenarios, so I can assess how my tracks will sound in any other environment. Whether my songs are being played in a theater, through consumer-grade headphones, at an airport, or in the car, I know what I’m hearing on the V-Series will be what audiences experience as well.”

For times when Ramirez has been on the road running front of house for Camilo, his KRK V-Series monitors serve a dual purpose as nearfield speakers. “The monitors are vibrant and tend to have solid sound quality in loud situations, which is important for a concert tour,” he adds.

Never one to stray too far from his producer role, Ramirez uses KRK GoAux Portable Powered Studio Monitors for studio work on the go. “I travel a lot when I am on tour, and I like to have a solution that is easy to set up on the road,” he explains. “The KRK GoAux sound great, and the carrying case they come in is amazing. I never have to worry about where I am going to store all the pieces.” Whether in the studio or on the road, Ramirez also relies on KRK’s KNS Headphones when listening back on his mixes. “The KRK Headphones have a very particular boost on the mids and mid-lows, so I use them to check my tracks in that range,” he adds. “It helps me assess if I have everything under control.”  

As a longtime KRK user, Ramirez reflected on when he initially heard KRK monitors, at his first studio job. “I will always remember seeing the beautiful speakers with the yellow cone; I felt great listening to the music come out of those ROKIT 8s,” he reminisces. “The speakers sounded terrific, and I just knew they were a quality product. That was back in 2009, and I have been using KRK ever since. KRK continues to be a top-notch brand that has easy and affordable solutions for beginners, as well as higher-end solutions for professionals.”

Ramirez graduated with a degree in audio engineering from Pontificia Universidad Javeriana, in Bogota, Colombia, and later earned his Master of Fine Arts (MFA) degree in sound design from Savannah College of Art and Design in Georgia. From 2018 to 2021, Ramirez was the head recording and mixing engineer at Art House, GRAMMY Award-winner Julio Reyes Copello’s studio. Now, as an independent producer, Ramirez continues to use his array of KRK gear while in the studio and on the road, and his KRK GoAux monitors for personal listening applications.

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Rudy Bethancourt upgrades his audio game to Dolby Atmos with KRK

Brand’s monitors, subwoofers, and headphones deliver quality results while mixing for both music and television

MIAMI, DECEMBER 3, 2024 ― Rudy Bethancourt is a GRAMMY® and Latin GRAMMY®-winningaudio engineer, music producer, and show programmerwith over 25 years of experience in the industry. His impressive portfolio includes collaborations with renowned artists such as Ricky Martin, Shakira, Jennifer Lopez, Scott Stapp, Carlos Vives, Kany Garcia, Carlos Rivera, Ivy Queen, Ricardo Arjona, Lorde, and Fall Out Boy. Bethancourt’s musical journey began in Guatemala, where he initially made his mark as a musician and band member. His passion led him to also explore the fields of engineering and production.

Bethancourt recently decided it was time to enhance his audio expertise even further by making the transition from stereo to surround at his new Dolby Atmos recording studio, Nine Lives Immersive. To accommodate the immersive projects on which he works, Bethancourt invested in three KRK V6 Series 4 Powered Studio Monitors, as well as ten V4 Series 4,and one pair of V8 Series 4. In addition to his trusted monitors, Bethancourt has two pairs of KRK KNS 8400 Studio Headphones, an S12.4 Powered Studio Subwoofer, and two pairs of a previous generation of V8s.

Nine Lives Immersive features a 9.1.4 Atmos configuration with four monitors mounted on the ceiling, six on stands on the ground, and three on his desk in a left, center, and right arrangement. “The V-Series already sound good on their own; they are transparent, which is important for Atmos,” he explains. “The monitors can adapt to different styles of music, and when you pair them with the S12 Subwoofer, you can get great low end. Even if you don’t use the sub, the V-Series monitors still sound excellent.”

In his studio, Bethancourt embraces transparency as a fundamental principle of his artistic workflow. “One thing I love about the V8s specifically is the low-end extension you get without a subwoofer,” he shares. “They are very straightforward sounding and are overall amazing monitors. There is something about the stereo image that you get when you place them in the perfect position—just wow. Also, when you bring the loudness level down while mixing, the monitors translate well in that low volume environment.”

In addition to his KRK monitors, Bethancourt tunes in with his KNS 8400s headphones. The sound quality of the KRK headphones ensures that every detail of his tracks comes to life, allowing him to immerse himself fully into his creative process. “What I found with the KNS is that they have a more natural response,” he explains. “They are great for tracking vocals because they have this little curve in the mid-highs with nice high end and little low end. Overall, they have a very flat frequency response.”

“Most of the broadcast mixes I worked on for the TV Show ‘La Voz US, Tu Cara Me Suena’ and the Celia Cruz tribute performed by Jennifer Lopez for the American Music Awards, plus multiple mixes for various Latin GRAMMYs live performances, were created with KRK V8s,” he explains. “I also recorded, vocal engineered, and mixed Season 2of theHBO show called ‘A Tiny Audience,’ for which I used the V8s as well. The transient response of the V-Series is so good; when you are in a big room, you can reach 85 dB, and they sound terrific. When you have a smaller room, like mine, there’s a different dB range, so you have to mix at lower volumes. What I like about the V-Series is that the transient response can continue at both the low and high volumes when I push it. These monitors give me that consistency in detail and allow a mid-range that most other speakers can’t.”

In addition to his exciting TV projects, Bethancourt utilizes his KRKs to assist fellow musicians in transforming their music from stereo to the immersive world of Atmos. “I have been using my Dolby Atmos room a lot to help friends who don’t have the budget to translate their old catalog into Atmos,” he shares. “I have also been working with various independent artists to bring their discography up to Dolby specifications because it is so new and an extra cost for them.”

Bethancourt is a longtime KRK user and has worked with the brand for over 15 years. He has been a part of the KRK/Gibson family since 2007 and expresses his gratitude for the incredible support he’s received from the company over the years. “They are like one big family,” he says, highlighting the close-knit community he’s found within the brand. Looking ahead, Bethancourt is excited to keep pushing boundaries, utilizing his trusted KRK monitors, subwoofers, and headphones as he delves deeper into the innovative world of Dolby Atmos.

KRK Systems

Legendary Mastering Engineer Howie Weinberg Calls on KRK’s Natural Sound in the Studio, On the Road, and at Home

LOS ANGELES, OCTOBER 15, 2024 ― When it comes to audio mastering, Howie Weinberg might know a thing or two. With over 8,600 mastering credits and more than 90 billion streams, 21 GRAMMY® Awards (58 total nominations), three TEC Awards, two Juno Awards, and a Mercury Prize on his resume, the mastering engineer is a legend in his own right. Having worked with some of the biggest names in music across nearly every genre, from hip-hop, alternative, and R&B to rock, pop, heavy metal, and EDM, Weinberg’s name is synonymous with iconic albums like Nirvana’s Nevermind, Madonna’s Music, and Beastie Boys’ Licensed to Ill.

Today, after more than four decades in the industry, Weinberg is still doing what he does best, from his professional home studio in Laurel Canyon, California. “We’re in the heart of an eclectic artistic area, there’s a big recording scene here, and we’re surrounded by a lot of other famous creatives,” he explains. “The house was an old hunting lodge, built in 1910; it has a lot of energy and a great vibe. I have a personal studio here that’s as nice as any commercial space I’ve worked in, along with two other studios on the property. It’s very California.” 

No matter where he sets up shop, Weinberg has continually called on KRK monitors throughout his career, today relying on KRK V-Series in the studio. “I was one of the original KRK users; when they first were released, the founder himself introduced me to the original 7000 Series speakers,” he says. “KRK has always been the number one speaker for audiophiles to have in their kits. There was something magical about that original set, and the KRK engineers did an amazing job of recreating that sound in the V-Series. Those V8s sound so good.”

Weinberg appreciates the compact nature of the V-Series for client listening situations. “Artists can sometimes get overwhelmed by gigantic monitors, so it’s good to have a nice, tight option like the V-Series,” he explains. “These monitors sound perfect; they’re not tiring, and they have really good imaging. I like that they tell me the truth on all frequencies. They have well-made amps, so they can also play super loud when people want; they can crank.”

In addition to his current eight-inch V-Series 8 (V8) monitors, Weinberg also has experience with the six-inch (V6) and four-inch (V4) models. “They are really good speakers that hit really hard,” he adds. “They get incredible bottom-end. You can always get them all bright in the mids, but to get something really big, with huge low-end, is special. I also keep a pair of the V4s at a small, remote beach house, so I can check on records while I am there, and they’re fantastic.”

For times when Weinberg is on the road, he calls on the KRK GoAux Mobile Monitoring System. “The GoAux are cool because people want to travel and still have a set of references wherever they go,” he says. “Whenever I go away anywhere, I just pack ‘em up, and off we go — and they sound great. My assistant finishes all our projects, and if I’m not in the studio, he can still send the files for me to listen to with the GoAux. Those monitors are fantastic for that application. I also use them when I am visiting with clients, which makes it possible for the artists to hear their music in different environments — whether it’s in my professional studio or their living room.”

While designed for mobile applications, Weinberg also uses the GoAux as commercial speakers in a small programming room. “They are just the perfect little speakers and are very well-priced; unlike traditional consumer monitors, the GoAux are not overly done,” he continues. “They can be used both wired or wirelessly via Bluetooth, they’re not heavy, and they have a professional sound. KRK really engineered these things to pack a punch, especially considering their small size.”

Weinberg further appreciates the GoAux for general listening applications. “I don’t get to go on vacation as much as I would like to, but when I do, I bring the GoAux with me so I can listen to music wherever I am,” he adds. “They come in a nice case, so they are easy to pick up and go. They set up easily as well, and they’re a great alternative to headphones.”

Like many of his colleagues, Weinberg keeps an array of studio headphones on hand, including the KRK KNS 6402 Headphones. “They’re a really good reference source,” he says. “They’re not overly engineered, so they sound as good as higher-end consumer options, which I like because a lot of professional headphones have too much sound. The KNS are very accurate in terms of the bottom and top end; and, like the GoAux, they’re not very expensive. Overall, I think they’re just cool headphones. I own a lot of headphones, and the KNS are among my go-to’s.”

As a longtime KRK user, Weinberg has seen the company’s evolution and product development firsthand. “I like KRKs because they’re very flat and even; I’m really hooked on these speakers,” he declares. “Every product KRK (Gibson) makes is phenomenal; super high-end and very well thought out. They translate very well to all the work I do, in or out of the studio, which is the key to a great speaker. The company’s customer support is also fantastic. Anytime I need a new product, or they make a new product that I want to try, they send it over for me to try out. Not every company will do that.”

In addition to the Nirvana, Madonna and The Beastie Boys, Weinberg has also been credited for his mastering work on albums with icons such as Prince, Yoko Ono, Metallica, Eddie Van Halen, Miley Cyrus, Mariah Carey, Sinéad O’Connor, Foster the People, The Black Keys, Smashing Pumpkins, Gary Clark Jr, Def Leppard, Run DMC and The Killers, among countless others. For a full recap of Weinberg’s work, visit his Spotify playlist: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/2Fot465ytwIt82sKqBxrfo.