NEW*SOUND PLANT

Wanganui Chronicle, Volume 83, Issue 287, 5 December 1939, Page 9

NEW*SOUND PLANT

MAJESTIC INSTALLATION REALISTIC EFFECTS The first plant of its kind in New Zealand, new Western Electric Mirrophonic sound equipment has been installed at the Majestic Theatre. Patrons will be given their first opportunity of appreciating the innovation when “Broadway Serenade” commences a three-day season on Friday. Claimed to be the most revolutionary progressive move in the science of sound reproduction since the talking screen came into its own, the new sound equipment proved in demonstrations overseas that public interest had been won to a remarkable degree, an increase in theatre attendances being registered following the introduction of the Mirrophonic equipment. The important feature is not so much the technical points but the effect itself, pointed out Mr. A. C. Ashford, manager of the Majestic Theatre, where a private demonstration was given yesterday morning. Demonstrations have proved that sound in all its varying shades and degrees can be faithfully reproduced, thus providing a new quality for singing and speaking voices. No more need there be “good” and “bad” seats

in a theatre, for the sound is perfectly reproduced, and a sigh or a murmur, thunder or earthquake’s roar, comes across with wonderfully natural effect. The sound of the eruption of the submarine volcano, Krakatoa, provided yesterday’s audience with a striking example of the improvement to sound reproduction by the Western Electric Mirrophonic equipment, and added to the effect of this terrifying spectacle on those who behold it. Further, new life and beauty was given to singing voices and musical instruments by the new installation.