The 22-month programme concluded with the upgrade of the Apollo Cinema in Rhyl, where the installation of the latest 7.1 Dolby digital sound processors marked the conversion of all 83 of Apollo's cinemas screens at 14 locations in England and Wales.
"Quality surround sound is absolutely critical to the overall experience of enjoying a film," says Rob Arthur, managing director, Apollo Cinemas, "so we wanted to be able to offer our customers the very best with the quality and flexibility of the new Dolby digital cinema processors.
"We have been delighted with the results. The improvement in sound quality is really noticeable and we feel this, as part of our conversion to all-digital screens, has further enhanced our reputation for delivering the very best picture and sound experience in cinema".
The rollout is part of Apollo's programme as an all-digital screen cinema chain, bringing the latest technology for both picture and audio, and providing a more immersive experience - whether the audience was enjoying a traditional movie, or alternative content such as a live concerts or sporting events on the big screen.
Completed by Sound Associations, the programme has seen the inclusion of Dolby's next-generation audio processor, the CP750, which is designed to seamlessly integrate with other elements of the cinema's operations, including pre-show servers, alternative content and theatre management systems. Since the system can be managed by the theatre's network operations centre, the Dolby CP750 can also be monitored, controlled, and upgraded much more easily.
"We worked closely with Apollo and Sound Associates on this exciting project to realise their commitment to delivering the very best digital experience for their consumers," said Guy Hawley, senior director, product sales EMEA, Dolby Laboratories: "Apollo's commitment to quality delivery of all content is unfaltering and the installation of our latest audio processors in all their screens will ensure that they will achieve this now and in the future."
(Jim Evans)
