Barco, Guinness World Record holder for the brightest digital cinema projector, announced today that it is partnering with THX® and Datasat Digital Entertainment to bring Auro-3D® sound technology to commercial theaters. Datasat is Barco’s partner for the manufacturing of the audio processor and THX collaborates with Barco on enhancements to optimize performance of the Auro-3D® system for commercial cinemas. Together, they apply vast experience and proficiency in digital cinema sound to the Auro-3D® roll-out.
“By partnering with THX and Datasat, we bring unique cinema audio expertise to the table that complements our suite of revolutionary solutions from Auro Technologies allowing 3D sound to be experienced for the first time in cinemas worldwide,” says Brian Claypool, Senior Director Strategic Business Development at Barco. “The result is the most sophisticated and natural audio experience available.”
Auro-3D®, powered by Barco and Auro Technologies, elevates the cinema sound experience to an amazing level of auditory acuity, enabling movie-goers to hear sounds from their relative origination point in the theater, and it does so in a simple and cost-effective way. To achieve this truly enveloping experience, the system incorporates additional speakers deployed in the upper portions of the auditorium that add an extra dimension to the sound experience. The solution is 100 percent backwards and forwards compatible with existing sound systems, requiring minimal hardware investment and installation time.
“We are proud to be selected by Barco as OEM partner and supplier for the new Auro-3D® audio processing package,” comments Robert McKinley, COO of Datasat Digital Entertainment. “We have an extensive history in audio processing for feature films. The revolutionary 3D sound technology is a new chapter for us, and we’re very happy to be part of this development.”
By qualifying Auro-3D® technology from a design and technology perspective, THX recognizes Barco as developing a premium quality audio offering to already being a superior brand in digital cinema projection. “For nearly 30 years, THX has been passionate about improving the cinematic experience with its innovative THX Cinema certification program, which has been instrumental in providing audiences worldwide optimized picture and sound in designated THX Certified Cinemas,” says Rick Dean, Senior Vice President, THX Ltd. “This is a groundbreaking, yet logical next step for THX and we are excited to be a part of this next-generation theater audio technology.”
Auro-3D® is quickly gaining traction with leading exhibitors on three continents. The system has already been installed at Jam Hall Cinemas (St. Petersburg, Russia); Regal Cinemas (Los Angeles, US); and Wangfujing Cinema (Changsha, China) with additional installations in progress around the globe.
