In need of a seamless monitoring solution compatible with Atmos, Genelec emerged as the obvious choice. Chief Audio Engineer Samuele Daccò spearheaded the project, ensuring the studio’s design was tailored to meet Atmos specifications to create a 7.1.4 system in Molok’s two control rooms. “Genelec was our first choice when we designed the rooms and we just needed to choose the models – and think about what would sound better for us and our needs,” he explains. “The translation works perfectly in our rooms.”

Genelec monitors have been a mainstay in Molok’s audio production, starting with the ultra-compact 8010 nearfield model. “I first encountered Genelec monitors when I started engineering in 2018 – and in a lot of studios I’ve worked in, there’s usually the 8010,” notes Daccò. “They’re very popular in Italy – it’s hard not to spot them!”

The newly built studio complex comprises six recording rooms and the two immersive control rooms – Scorpion and Sub Zero – which take their names from Mortal Kombat characters and have an identical Atmos design, but with inverted colour schemes.

For their new control rooms, Molok turned to a 7.1.4 Genelec Smart Active Monitoring solution. Both Scorpion and Sub Zero feature three coaxial three-way 8351s in the L-C-R positions, with 8340 two-ways deployed for the surround and height channels and a 7380 subwoofer to handle the low frequencies.

Transitioning to 7.1.4 systems has transformed the audio production approach, enabling the studio to offer immersive experiences that could be accurately translated across various playback systems.

With PS5 and other consoles adopting Atmos and many game titles supporting the format, Molok is well-prepared to meet new standards.

Looking forward, Molok Studios aims to expand its use of Atmos beyond gaming to music and home entertainment, targeting a global market.