By Abe Rasoulian
In 1953, the cinematic masterpiece The Robe debuted. It was the first major motion pictures shot in CinemaScope. Scope, as it is known, had an aspect ratio of 2.55:1, which at the time was way wider and more enveloping than anything seen up to that point. Prior to this, most movies were filmed in 1.37:1, known as Academy, most silent films were 1.33:1(or 4:3). TV’s, whose shape is based on the 1.33:1(4:3) aspect ratio, were gaining popularity in people’s homes. Hollywood and the movie theaters needed something to bring people back. This led to the development of ideas like widescreen formats and multichannel surrounds.
I was delighted to read recently in TWICE magazine an article by Steve Smith about the unilateral pricing strategies being discussed by CE manufacturers like Sony, Panasonic, LG, and Samsung. Their concern was profitability. For definitely the last couple of years these companies have experienced great losses and significant reductions in margins, especially for items like high-end televisions. As Steve Smith explains, the goal of these policies is to keep their most upscale a/v lines from having their prices and margins slashed. Another goal, Smith states, is to “try to have these upscale products sold by retailers that can explain new technology and dissuade popular online retailers or marketplace sites from selling them”. Read More
Laissez les Bon Temp Rouler! (French for “Let the Good Times Roll”)That is the theme of this unique French Quarter inspired home theater. The goal was to create a simple theater that creatively captured the spirit and romance of New Orleans. In addition to that the client requested not to see any of the surround speakers or the equipment rack. To accomplish this we turned to the creative talents of 3D Squared, and its talented Art Director, Glen Hoffman. His company specializes in printing custom art work on acoustically transparent fabric. He was able to find a unique artist from New Orleans who created 8 unique panels that collectively create an artistic impression of the streets of the French Quarter. Read More
Let’s face it, having a theater in your own home is awesome. A well thought out home theater can be the ultimate place to hang out with family and friends to experience some of that movie magic or share in the thrill and excitement of the big game. If your building a new home and have plans to add a home theater or considering converting an existing room into a home theater, then here some home theater basics to consider. Typically in every home theater project you will have the following categories you will need to make a decision on:
Read More
