Exhibitors Herald World (Oct-Dec 1929)

November 23, 1929 EXHIBITORS HERALD-WORLD 39 Oliver Turn Table ■with Audak Pickup 1-16 Actual Size Weight 150 lbs. OUVU HZFRODUCEK Fader Panel The Oliver Synchronous Reproducer $750.00 The most complete equipment on the market. Two Oliver Speedometers 'Powerizer" Amplifier Oliver Turn Table with Audak Pickup 1-16 Actual Size Weight 150 lbs. Rola Dynamic Speaker Oliver Manufacturing Co. Film Bldg., Cleveland, Ohio Our Chicago Distributor: Movie Supply Company, 844 South Wabash Ave., Chicago, 111. Rola Dynamic Speaker that are unfolding to his "movie" audience a visual impression of a beautiful story told with the aid of his mechanical pen. And at the same time he deftly manipulates the projection sound equipment in a manner so as to give proper modulation to the spoken voice in synchronism with the photographic images, so that the illusion of actually giving life and voice to his story book characters may be complete. The introduction of sound presented a series of problems that were entirely new to the projection field. To begin with, the sound equipment had only been subjected to superficial laboratory tests prior to its installation in the theatre. These tests had been conducted under uniform and ideal conditions, by technicians who had developed a pace with the sound equipment. But theatres could not be reconstructed so as to make them ideal for the new sound installations. The physical conditions obtaining in many of the theatres were such that it was next to impossible to achieve the desired results. Each installation presented its own particular problems that could only be solved after subjection to practical tests. That the original installations of projection equipment, for the reproduction and amplification of sound were far from perfect, is not difficult to understand. _ After the installation was made, the responsibility of operating and maintaining the sound equipment became the duty of the projectionist, who had little or no knowledge of the complicated device, aside from a few hours of operating instruction. This unfamiliarity was not due to his indifference. There had been no opportunity to secure the technical information necessary or to prepare himself for this new responsibility. From the outset it was apparent there would be trouble. Many changes had to be made before the sound equipment measured up to the exacting exhibition requirements of the modern motion picture theatre. The projectionists who pioneered the introduction of sound have every right to feel a great satisfaction in the contribution they have made in the development of this epochal achievement. I feel one may safely say that the problems arising through the introduction of sound were far and away the most difficult with which projection from staffs had ever been confronted. The men who have solved the problems in a practical and highly The new type Macy exponential horn, model S-72, developed zvith an object to serve theatres or auditoriums seating less than 300. Model S-72 is equipped with suspension and mounting supports. satisfactory manner are to be congratulated. They are deserving of the highest commendation from the entire motion picture industry for this splendid service. No attempt will be made by me to stress the mechanical ability of the capable projectionist. Neither shall I dwell upon the requisite understanding of electrical phenomena which is indispensable to the solution of projection room problems. Of his familiarity with the principles of optics, i shall only say that without this knowledge, the splendid image definition which is characteristic of the finished screen performance would be impossible of attainment, and the beautnul photographic results of the consummate skill of the cameramen would be wasted. It is true, of course, that an able projectionist must be a good mechanic, but it does not naturally follow^ that a good mechanic would be an able projectionist. My impression of the matter is that real showmanship is one of the _ most essential qualities for the real projectionist. He must be show -minded in all that the term implies, with a background of theatrical experience which will imbue him with that inherent theatrical spirit — "The Show Must Go On," no matter what may happen. _ No amount of academic training could possiblv produce an outstanding projectionist. The essentials for good projection are not to be learned out of books alone. True, the theoretical approach will be of value to the novice and will be highly beneficial to the experienced projectionist; no man ever lived who knew as much as he ought to know. When any man reaches a point where he imagines he has all the knowledge he should have, it is a certain indication of his need of it. Physical conditions in the construction of a theatre necessitate locating the projection room at some point remote from easy access. It seldom has visitors. Indeed, the larger theatres are strict in enforcement of the rule forbidding visitors in the projection room. In