Genelec Introduces UNIO Personal Reference Monitoring
Solution at IBC 2024
The 9320A SAM Reference Controller, Reference Measurement Microphone, and the new 8550A Professional
Reference Headphones
Genelec has chosen the IBC 2024 exhibition in Amsterdam to debut its new UNIO
Personal Reference
Monitoring Solution, designed to bridge the gap between in-room loudspeaker and personal
headphone
monitoring. This innovative system includes the 9320A SAM Reference Controller, Reference
Measurement Microphone, and the new 8550A Professional Reference Headphones, offering
users an
enhanced, calibrated listening experience. Additionally, Genelec has introduced Aural ID
V2.0, a
binaural headphone monitoring technology that adds precision to personal monitoring.
The UNIO ecosystem was first introduced at IBC 2023, and integrates Genelec's Smart Active Monitors,
GLM calibration software, and Aural ID personal headphone technology under the control of the
9320A
controller, managed via the user's MyGenelec account. This system provides seamless translation
between monitors and headphones, allowing for consistent workflow, whether in-studio or on-the-go.
The newly launched 8550A Professional Reference Headphones are a key addition, designed to
enhance
the UNIO system's accuracy. These headphones incorporate an active design that allows for factory
calibration via the 9320A controller, offering precise resolution and unmatched linearity in sound.
This mirrors the same level of tailored precision that Genelec Smart Active Monitors deliver in
traditional loudspeaker setups.
The 8550A headphones feature a closed, circumaural design that provides excellent sound isolation
and comfort. Built for durability, they include replaceable parts for extended use. With a frequency
response of 15 Hz to 20 kHz, 40 mm transducers, and neodymium magnets, the 8550A delivers
exceptional sound quality, while the headphones are capable of achieving up to 119 dB of short-term
SPL. Personal comfort is ensured with both leather and velvet ear cushions, along with options for
straight and coiled cables.
The new Aural ID V2.0 technology further enhances the personal monitoring experience by modeling
each user's head and torso to calculate their unique HRTF (head-related transfer function), allowing
for a more realistic headphone mix. This includes precise azimuth and elevation, creating a sense of
spatial awareness that mirrors in-room loudspeaker monitoring. The updated Aural ID software
includes room modeling with early reflection support and webcam-based head tracking, ensuring that
the acoustic presentation remains consistent even as the user moves their head.
In addition, Aural ID V2.0 supports Open Sound Control (OSC) for hardware head trackers and provides
options for stereo and immersive monitoring up to 9.1.6. The software offers both a personal HRTF
and industry-standard Kemar and KU100 head-and-torso simulator HRTFs.
Genelec Managing Director, Siamak Naghian commented on the expansion of the UNIO ecosystem,
saying:
"UNIO now effectively offers audio professionals three levels of reference monitoring. Those simply
seeking the finest in-room loudspeaker monitoring can enjoy the combination of Smart Active
Monitors, GLM, and the 9320A, while users that also seek accurate headphone monitoring will embrace
the arrival of the 8550As. But for those seeking the ultimate combination of in-room and personal
headphone monitoring, the UNIO Personal Reference Monitoring Solution and Aural ID V2.0 represents
the most accurate and portable monitoring system ever produced."
Visitors to IBC 2024 can explore the full UNIO ecosystem at Stand 8.A61 and the Immersive Listening
Room 8.MS1/8.MS20 from September 13th to 16th.