technology

KRK

KRK launches Kreate Series Studio Monitors — a versatile solution for producers, podcasters, and content creators alike

NASHVILLE, JUNE 24, 2025 ― KRK introduces the Kreate Series Studio Monitors, the newest addition to the brand’s wide range of audio offerings. The Kreate monitors bring extraordinary value and legendary KRK monitoring performance to emerging musicians, engineers, producers, and content creators. These best-in-class two-way studio monitors are designed specifically to meet the diverse needs of creatives, providing the tools necessary to reproduce every nuance of a production with astonishing clarity and accuracy. From casual playback to professional music and content production, the Kreate Series is designed to perform. The Kreate line is available through select dealers and online at krkmusic.com.

As the brand’s newest studio monitor line, the KRK Kreate Series represents KRK’s continued commitment to innovation, accessibility, and excellence, supporting a wide range of setups and needs. Great for mixing, producing, and content creation, the Kreate monitors have a variety of key features that stand out among other monitors in their class. This includes wireless audio streaming capabilities with a pairable Bluetooth® audio input alongside balanced and unbalanced analog inputs for flexible connectivity. The monitors also have a universal voltage, switch-mode power supply for seamless global operations.

Available in three sizes — three, five, and eight-inch — these entry-level active, two-way studio reference monitors feature a wide bandwidth, boundary and tuning EQs, new transducer designs, and Class D amplification. The Kreate Series also features useful acoustic boundary correction and tuning EQ combinations to help minimize and correct acoustic environment problems and dial in the voicing to meet specific application needs.

“The Kreate Series offers professional-grade sound and flexible functionality that empowers emerging artists, producers, podcasters, and all creators to embrace high-quality audio at an affordable price point,” says Sterling Doak, Senior Director of Marketing for Gibson. “The monitors fill a vital space in the KRK lineup and are ideal for those who demand quality without compromise. As the new introductory solution within the portfolio, the Kreate Series will enable users to begin their creative journey with confidence.”

With KRK Kreate, composite woven glass fiber cone woofers provide amazing dynamics with good damping and modal control to deliver tight and punchy mid and low-frequency response that’s perfect for casual and professional playback environments. The glass fiber structure is heat-resistant and features a high strength-to-weight ratio, ensuring the monitors are highly adaptable and sonically accurate.

Additionally, high-frequency reproduction emanates from a carefully designed woven-textile dome tweeter with a neodymium motor, which accurately extends the frequency range up to 40 kHz in the KRK Kreate 8 and 5 options, and up to 33 kHz in the 3 option, for a smoother, more detailed sound profile. The textile dome tweeters are used to create a smooth accurate response.

Furthermore, the system-tuning level control and low-frequency and high-frequency shelving filters allow for easy adjustment in various acoustic conditions. Hybrid Class D and Class AB amplification delivers power and headroom with excellent dynamics reproduction. The high-performance transducers are optimized for improved response and accuracy. For maximum transient response and dynamics reproduction, the amplifiers drive the transducers efficiently at reduced operating temperatures to ensure audio integrity during long work sessions.

The monitors are launching in KRK’s signature black/yellow and latte/black color scheme, with the Kreate 3 models sold as a pair and the Kreate 5 and Kreate 8 options priced individually. The series also continues KRK’s visual branding evolution, with packaging and stylization that closely align with other monitors from the brand’s product portfolio.

Explore the new KRK Kreate Series product line HERE.

KRK

Marshmellow Skies state-of-the-art Dolby Atmos facility pioneers immersive music production with KRK

Recording studio provides immersive experience for music lovers with the help of KRK studio monitors and subwoofers

WESTLAKE VILLAGE, CA, JUNE 18, 2025 ― Marshmellow Skies Recording Studio, recognized for its professional production and development services, recently opened as a cutting-edge recording facility equipped with Dolby Atmos capabilities. Led by GRAMMY®-winning Record Producer and Engineer Ken Caillat, Chief Engineer Claus Trelby, and Business Manager Nitanee Paris, the studio aims to elevate the musical experience for both artists and listeners.

In response to the increasing demand for immersive audio, the studio underwent a comprehensive redesign. “We built a new studio from the ground up, designing the control room specifically for immersive audio mixing,” says Trelby. “Our innovative setup includes KRK V8 and V6 Studio Monitors and KRK Subwoofers, which together ensure reliability across all volume levels. This allows artists to be fully immersed in the dynamics of their music as they create.”

Key features of the new studio include a meticulously designed control room and a reference theater with a 7.1.4 configuration, which enables rich audio experiences during sessions. “We also have a 9.1.6 setup with the KRK V8s on the horizontal and the V6s above us, along with two subwoofer cabinets on a single channel. The KRKs are great and able to handle the demands of both low and high-volume levels,” emphasized Trelby. “Working in such a space inspires creativity and aids in the transition to immersive audio formats.”

Marshmellow Skies has already made significant waves in the industry with projects like Joni Mitchell’s award-winning “Live at Newport” and Jazz Guitarist David Becker’s “Gravitationally Bound.” The studio’s new immersive audio environment allows for seamless recording and mixing. “The KRK speakers are integral to achieving this dynamic sound quality, allowing for both subtle and powerful audio without compromising the integrity of the music,” says Caillat.

Caillat elaborated on the importance of the KRK speakers used in the setup, sharing that “they are affordable speakers and sound great, too. They are beneficial for Dolby®—light, airy, and transparent.” Trelby echoes his sentiments, adding: “The KRKs translate really well, and I trust them. They are flat enough that it’s easy to EQ them to any production curve that we would need to, and we don’t have to reach far to hit these curves.”

Subwoofers are also an important part of any immersive room. “A subwoofer must be tight. You can’t have any residual waves coming out of them,” explains Trelby. “That is why the KRK subs are so great; they give you what you want and deliver a full and immersive audio experience.”

“Feedback from listeners has been overwhelmingly positive,” adds Paris. “Many people have shown a lot of emotion while experiencing the immersive audio for the first time, sharing with us how it transformed how they will listen to music in the future.”

As the music industry continuously evolves, Marshmellow Skies Recording Studio is at the forefront, shaping the future of sound. For artists seeking to explore the endless possibilities of immersive audio, the studio represents an exciting milestone with high-quality gear, including KRK studio monitors and subwoofers. This commitment to quality has resulted in multiple successful immersive albums for the team, including five collaborative projects with the legendary Joni Mitchell.

Marshmellow Skies is a premier recording studio based in California, dedicated to pushing the boundaries of music production with Dolby Atmos. Led by a team of industry veterans, the studio is committed to delivering the highest quality in audio production and creative collaboration.

KRK

Miami producer redefines Latin music with KRK’s signature sound

Lauro creates unforgettable collaborations with brand’s ROKIT studio monitors and subwoofer

MIAMI, APRIL 15, 2025 ― Renowned Miami-based producer and songwriter Laureano “Lauro” Pardo is making waves in the music industry with his stellar portfolio, which boasts collaborations with some of the biggest names in Latin music, including Arcangel, Myke Towers, Fer Vazquez, and Flor Alvarez. With multiple nominations for GRAMMY® and Latin GRAMMY® Awards and accolades featuring two-time RIAA Gold and 10-time RIAA Platinum certifications, Lauro’s contributions to music are evident.

Lauro is a passionate creator who has cultivated his unique sound. From the early days of experimenting with music, Lauro’s journey began by collaborating with local bands, which allowed him to hone his craft. “Over time, one of those artists achieved great success, earning awards both nationally and internationally,” he shares. “Thanks to that experience, I managed to come to the United States and fully immerse myself in the music industry.” Lauro’s career, now flourishing, is rooted in a love for sound that he believes has been amplified by his choice of gear.

Equipped with KRK ROKIT 5 Generation 4 Studio Monitors paired with a powerful 10-inch KRK Subwoofer, Lauro explains, “As my studio is not very large, I am very satisfied with the sound I have achieved using my KRK gear. Despite the size, the KRK system fits perfectly in my space and makes me happy. What I like most about the KRK system is that it sounds clean and provides the right amount of sub-bass I need,” he says. “It’s a sound I’m familiar with because it’s the same one I started my career with, so I feel very comfortable.”

This familiarity dates back to Lauro’s formative years. “When I started producing, I watched many tutorials on YouTube and noticed they used KRK monitors,” he says. “One day, at a local music outlet, I came across a pair of KRK monitors and tested them for myself. That was my first experience with the brand, and I have never stopped using it.”

With a reputation for delivering high-quality sound regardless of the environment, KRK monitors and subwoofers have become indispensable to Lauro’s production toolkit. “I always use KRK with all the projects I produce in my studio,” he adds. “Every time I’m asked for a backline for a session, I choose KRK because I know the brand consistently delivers reliable results. The gear has been a great solution for me. The monitors and subwoofers sound good anywhere, and I always trust that the audio will be consistent and true to what I need.”

Looking ahead, Lauro is eager to explore new possibilities with KRK. “My plan now is to try the GoAux Portable Monitors for spontaneous sessions; I want to always have them in the car, ready and prepared for any opportunity that arises,” he shares. Lauro firmly believes that KRK is more than just a brand. “KRK is part of the global musical legacy that has shaped the industry. If you are a producer seeking powerful sound and well-defined bass, there is no better option than KRK. There is no comparison.”

Lauro is an acclaimed Miami-based music producer and songwriter known for his innovative sound and collaborations with top artists in the industry. With a commitment to excellence and a passion for music, he continues to define the sound of contemporary Latin music.

KRK

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.

KRK

Los Angeles’ iconic Sound Factory installs custom mains with KRK and legendary Acoustician George Augspurger

LOS ANGELES, MARCH 10, 2025 ― Originally opened in the early 1960s as Moonglow Records, The Sound Factory name was coined by Producer David Hassinger, who purchased the studio in 1969. A little over a decade later, the studio was sold to Sunset Sound Recorders’ owners Paul and Tutti Camarata, who ran the facility until it was sold in 2017. After 60 years of serving the music industry, LA’s Sound Factory boasts a history of working with some of the world’s greatest artists. Among these are Marvin Gaye, the Jackson 5, and Linda Ronstadt in the 60s and 70s; Sheryl Crow and Red Hot Chili Peppers at the turn of the century; Doja Cat, SZA, and Mark Ronson, as well as artists currently working with Sound Factory’s own record label.

In an effort to keep up with the changes in technology and musical styles, the studio’s current leadership sought to upgrade the space while still paying homage to its history. In doing so, they connected with George Augspurger to create new mains for the facility’s two recording studios. The legendary acoustician and speaker designer had previously designed aspects of the Sound Factory during its expansion in the 1970s, and his experience in the studio was a perfect complement to the upgrade. After designing the new custom mains, Augspurger worked in collaboration with Craig Hockenberry, Gibson Director of Product Development, Pro Audio,to have the speakers built. Augspurger’s expansive pro audio knowledge, coupled with Hockenberry’s expertise in designing and building Gibson’s KRK monitors, proved to be ideal for this unique project.

“After they had run the studio for about a year, [the present owners] asked me what would be involved in designing custom monitors for Studio A, the original room,” says Augspurger. “The room itself was one that I had designed, but it [now] had standard commercial monitors in it. So, using the components of the so-called ‘Augspurger monitor,’ we created a design for the room. Then, more recently, they wanted to upgrade the monitors in Studio B. The same design was physically able to be accommodated [in both rooms,] so we went ahead and [designed] the retrofit in Studio B as well.”

While the process was straightforward, designing, creating, and deploying Sound Factory’s new mains was a labor of love that evolved over three years. “The main thing [to consider] in designing a custom monitor is that you have the freedom to make the cabinet dimensions fit the space available,” adds Augspurger, with regards to the unique soffits from the original monitors. “I know how to design speaker cabinets, so that part was easy. The choice of components is done in cooperation with the owner, the people who will be using the speakers. This is the first installation I’ve done with KRK…and all I can tell you is there were absolutely no glitches, no problems. They delivered what I asked for.”

For Gibson/KRK’s role in the project, Hockenberry and his team set to work building the monitors to Augspurger’s specifications. “We worked with George on the monitors from the beginning, which was a real pleasure,” says Hockenberry. “We had the designs worked out by the second call with him, and we built both pairs in our prototype shop here in Nashville. Once we had George’s seal of approval on everything, we coordinated with Sound Factory Studio Manager Cameell Hanna to get the speakers sent to their new home in Hollywood, where George helped oversee the final installation.” 

Like nearly all of Augspurger’s prior speaker designs, the custom pairs of KRK mains at Sound Factory feature a wooden, high-frequency horn. “The actual speaker components, such as the high-frequency drivers and woofers, are standard commercial products,” he explains. “The woofers are made by TAD, the professional products division of Pioneer, which I have used in most of my custom installations for the past 20 years. The high-frequency driver, which is comprised of beryllium, is made in the U.S. by Radian.”

The connection between Augspurger and Gibson/KRK was not one of happenstance. Instead, it was the result of many conversations Hanna had with his friend and colleague Rae Vinton, who leads Entertainment Relations for Gibson LA. “I told Rae about the upgrade and working with George, and she immediately asked if we wanted to do something with KRK,” says Hanna. “We already collaborate a lot together, so I thought it would be perfect.”

For Hockenberry, it was a symbiotic relationship that evolved into an incredible project. “Sound Factory is an amazing space that has produced innumerable legendary hits from countless icons; that, combined with George’s status in the industry, really solidified our decision to move forward with this project,” he says. “KRK represents premium sonic quality, and these custom mains emphasize the capabilities of our engineering team to create solutions that compete with other high-end manufacturers. We are humbled that KRK is now a part of the Sound Factory legacy and the many creative masterpieces that will be coming out of those rooms.”

“The funny thing about this place, for better or worse, I’m still not sure which it is, is that everything here is completely custom, even the general ‘living’ spaces,” explains Hanna. “Every aspect of this place is unique, nothing is a standard size, including the speaker system, so it’s difficult when we want to change something. But we wanted to honor the custom nature of the facility with our upgrades, and working with George, Craig, Rae, and the entire Gibson/KRK team, we’ve been able to accomplish that.”

To watch a video interview with George Augspurger and Cameell Hanna click here.

KRK Systems

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.

KRK Systems

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.

KRK Systems

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.