The new 8550A professional reference headphones and the Aural ID V2.0 binaural headphone monitoring technology strengthen the UNIO ecosystem, delivering the most precise and truthful personalized listening experience available.
Genelec has chosen the IBC 2024 show to present the UNIO personal reference monitoring solution. This unique system consists of the 9320A SAM Reference Controller, a measurement microphone, and the new 8550A professional headphones, creating a more integrated solution between traditional multi-element room monitoring and personal headphone monitoring.
With the new headphone calibration features within Genelec's GLM software and the optional binaural headphone monitoring technology, Aural ID V2.0, users will enjoy the most personalized and truthful headphone monitoring experience available.
Originally unveiled at IBC 2023, the UNIO ecosystem brings together the capabilities of Genelec’s SAM monitors, the GLM calibration software, and the personalized Aural ID headphone technology, all under the tactile control of the 9320A and managed through the MyGenelec user account. By combining a properly calibrated Intelligent Active Monitoring system and the Aural ID-equipped professional headphones, users can seamlessly switch between monitors and headphones while maintaining reliable mix reproduction with an integrated workflow, wherever they need to work.
Now, Genelec has raised the bar even higher with the introduction of the 8550A Professional Reference Headphones. Its innovative active design allows the 9320A reference controller's audio output to be tailored to each factory-calibrated 8550A headphone, creating an optimized UNIO Personal Reference Monitoring solution. This active co-calibration principle between the 8550A and the 9320A’s headphone output delivers exceptional linearity, acoustic accuracy, and sonic neutrality, similar to the precise performance offered by Genelec’s intelligent active monitors in any room monitoring environment.
The 8550A closed-back, circumaural headphones provide exceptional isolation and comfort for all head and ear sizes, featuring a durable and adjustable design with replaceable components for extended life and greater sustainability. The dynamic design of the 8550A uses neodymium magnets and 40mm drivers to produce a frequency response of 15 Hz to 20 kHz ± 0.3 dB, and an impressive short-term sound pressure level of 119 dB via the 9320A controller. It comes with both leather and velvet ear cushions, as well as straight and coiled cables, offering a premium experience tailored to the user's personal preferences.
In addition to the calibration file for each 8550A headphone stored in its corresponding 9320A controller, further personalized optimization is possible via Genelec's GLM 5 calibration software, which includes response curve adjustments, parametric equalization, and L/R balance. Lastly, for the ultimate personal headphone monitoring experience, the optional Aural ID V2.0 models the user’s upper torso and head to obtain their unique HRTF (Head-Related Transfer Function). This processes the signal sent to the headphones, reintegrating the personal spatial localization lost when using headphones and providing accurate azimuth and elevation control, which closely replicates the natural listening experience of room monitoring.
The new Aural ID V2.0 enhances this experience even further by modeling primary room reflections and integrating head-tracking support, ensuring the acoustic presentation remains stationary even as the user moves their head, for a more natural listening experience. Additionally, Open Sound Control (OSC) support allows the use of head-tracking devices, providing maximum compatibility with the system.
Operating as a simple app on Mac devices, Aural ID V2.0 also offers optimized HRTF binauralization options for both stereo and immersive monitoring up to 9.1.6, as well as an "original HRTF" option that provides full access to both the directional (DTF) and coloration (CTF) components within the HRTF, allowing users to individually EQ the acoustic effects of their headphones for an even more reliable and precise listening experience. In addition to the fully personalized HRTF of Aural ID, the inclusion of the Kemar standard and the KU100 head and torso simulator in Aural ID V2.0 provides an even wider range of options for users.
Regarding this latest expansion of the UNIO ecosystem, Genelec’s Managing Director, Siamäk Naghian, comments:
UNIO now effectively offers audio professionals three levels of reference monitoring. Those seeking only the most refined in-room monitoring system will enjoy the combination of SAM monitors, GLM, and the 9320A, while users requiring accurate headphone monitoring will welcome the arrival of the 8550A. But for those requiring the ultimate combination of room and personalized headphone monitoring, the UNIO Personal Reference Monitoring Solution and Aural ID V2.0 form the most accurate portable monitoring system ever created.
