New loudspeaker monitors play an essential part of a major £250k studio refurbishment that has recently been completed at London’s Metropolis Studios.
Continuing long-standing relationships with speaker suppliers PMC and Genelec, Metropolis has unveiled state-of the-art monitor systems in its Studio A and B. Studio A – which has hosted recording sessions ranging from Amy Winehouse to Queen, has been equipped with PMC’s flagship QB1-A monitoring system. Studio B meanwhile, with Will I Am and Adele among its guests, now enjoys Genelec 1236 mains and the new 8351 coaxial three-way close-fields.’
‘We are delighted to have played such a significant part in the Metropolis studios refurbishment which builds on our 23-year relationship. The QB1-As are a real step change in high-end reference monitoring,’ says PMC owner, Peter Thomas.
‘Metropolis was among the first customers for our 1035 system dating back to 1989,’ adds Genelec’s Lars-Olof Janflod. ‘So, for 27 years the 1035s have served Metropolis Studio A and B – it’s a pleasure to be able to continue this legacy with our new 1236 monitors from the Smart Active Monitor family, the latest in monitoring technology.
‘We have enjoyed a longstanding relationship with both PMC and Genelec – two benchmarks in the audio world,’ says Metropolis CEO, Ian Brenchley. ‘As part of our continuing evolution at Metropolis as the gold bearer for recording, our new monitor set-ups from PMC and Genelec provide the best-in-class for our artists.’
Based in a former power station for Chiswick’s trams in the early 20th century, Metropolis is among the most successful independent recording, mastering, creative and production facility in Europe. Approximately half of the UK Top 40 chart entries are either recorded, mixed, mastered or ‘creatively treated’ within the complex. Additionally, the Metropolis Artist Services division operates a record label and music publishing company, and is producer of TV shows. The facility also host industry events and showcases.
‘We’ve worked with a wealth of artists from all genres over the years, including Michael Jackson, Lady Gaga, the Rolling Stones, U2, The Stone Roses, Rihanna, The Verve, Mark Ronson, One Direction, Adele, The Clash, Maroon 5, The Cure, Madonna, Justin Bieber and Lana Del Rey,’ says Brenchley.
