The Empire Leicester Square London a JBL installation!

[JBL 4645]

Some you may recognize this cinema as one of the finest in the United Kingdom, the Empire Leicester square at London’s West End the movie capital, Empire was previously owned by UCI now under the ODEON banner it’s still the best.

So set back and relax, let the show begin…

Hears the little tramp Charlie Chaplin standing outside the Empire

This is a JBL installation! :applaud:

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Hears a closer view of the columns outside the Empire

The grandness of the architecture shows that this is place wait until you see the inside.

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The sound is frigging awesome I Kidd you not, I've been there several times, sick around I'll be posting for quite a while.

This is a night time view of the of the neon lighting outside the Empire

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This image was taken around 1991 at the premiere of Backdraft.

Backdaft was presented in 70mm six-track Dolby Stereo via the Lucasfilm THX sound system.

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This image was taken around 1991 at the premiere of Backdraft note star William Baldwin in the background.

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[JBL 4645]

How do you like the show so far boys & girls! :D

View of the front lobby of the Empire

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Grab that ticket and start running towards Empire Screen #1.:D

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The cinema was refurbished in 1989 with a makeover cost around if memory severs me right £5 million pounds,

You can clearly see the money was well spent and put to very good use in the refurbishments.

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While waiting to getting seated in the Empire's plush red rocker chairs and be surrounded with the delights of Dolby Stereo Digital dts SDDS and THX, relax with a drink at the bar.

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This view shows "The Bodyguard" which was played at the Empire back in 1992 thou the Empire normally shows "Paramount and Universal" films the Empire took it on to show the "The Bodyguard" as the former "Warner West End" cinema was been refurbished herself at a grand cost around £20 million there about.

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A different angle hear shows the doors to Empire screen #1 were getting closer now we are!

http://forum.ecoustics.com/bbs/messages/47069/275662.jpg

[JBL 4645]

WOW!!! I told you, this was voted the number cinema event in the world around the late 1980s not sure if she still holds that status, but in my view this is one hell of impressive cinema, the first time I saw a film hear was "Indiana Jones and the last Crusade" 70mm six-track Dolby Stereo SR with Split-Surrounds via the Lucasfilm THX Sound System.

The force of high power sound via some 20 JBL 4675-A 15inc bass mid arranged in the five screen array five horns placed above the bass cabs for the mid high frequencies for Dolby formats 42 and 43 / 70mm six-track, some 8 JBL 4645 these subs go below the most lowest of rumbling of soundtracks.

Note the surrounds JBL 8330 can be seen though not clearly as they blend in very well into the auditoriums design, look carefully.

http://forum.ecoustics.com/bbs/messages/47069/275663.jpg

The dimming of the auditoriums lights gives it a different view, note above the screen the stars these twinkle back a throw, it is said upon the premiere of "Forrest Gump" back in 1994 they where put to startling use as "Alan Silvestri" opening score with that gentleness in the music really gave the film a smashing impact.

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This side view of the Empire auditorium, note the plumb plushest red rocker chairs.

It's also said that "James Cameron" raved about the cinemas sound system upon the premiere of "Titanic" 1997 where it played exclusively in dts 70mm THX Sound System, as the best he's ever heard.

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Aspect ratio set on the screen to, W/S 1.85:1 though I've only seen one film at the Empire in W/S which was "Alive" Dolby Stereo Digital THX, the rest in Scope 2.35:1 and a handful of Star Trek films like the Star Trek day on Sunday 8th October 1989 all five films presented in 70mm Six-Track Dolby Stereo THX sound, except Star Trek the Motion Picture which was shown in Scope 2.35:1 Dolby Stereo A type.

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[JBL 4645]

This view showing a closer look of the red rockers, with the back part and the bottom part all movable for a rocking film show, and you them in this cinema, because when Indiana Jones throws a punch it will knock back into the chair LOL it's that good a film when I saw it there on September 13th 1989 Wednesday, and at £6.00 quid.

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Upon my third attendance to the Empire Leicester Square, when I was working as a projectionist for UCI cinemas in Dorset 10 screen multiplex Tower Park, I met, Ilker Sherif' chief projectionists of the Empire back then, his now moved onwards but there's still someone there to run the shows to spectacular event levels.

Ilker' was kind to show me the booth which I must say is the heart of the machine, note the Philips DP 70 dual projectors 35 & 70mm capabilities these projectors won an academy award for technical excellence.

Note the cake plates these can hold up to a three hour feature film, something like "Lawrence of Arabia" would require two cake plates, note the bottom plate this can be rewound onto the middle cake plate or the top one, re-lacing the film back up takes only a few minutes at the most.

http://forum.ecoustics.com/bbs/messages/47069/275678.jpg

Closer view of the Philips DP 70, note the rectifiers placed behind the projectors, these power up the powerful Xenon lamps inside the projectors lamp house, in the old days carbon arc rods where used where the two rods come together and create an electrical charged bright light, much in the same way as arc welding, is done except where showing films.

http://forum.ecoustics.com/bbs/messages/47069/275679.jpg

Closer view of the print on the cake plate, note in the centre there is a mechanism this is called the feeder or the Brain the film is treaded though and past the little rollers and though the finger and then around a set of rollers up down up and around and onto the projector and back to the cake plate, then
lacing the projector up and start.

http://forum.ecoustics.com/bbs/messages/47069/275680.jpg

[JBL 4645]

Holy cow now that's a rack system with some 15 JBL uri 6290 amplifiers or around 30 amplifiers for the JBL sound system placed to the right sides of and taking up three rack two & half rack framing, in the last two rakes placed to the left side, note two frames above JBL 6290 amps, is the Lucasfilm THX 3417 crossover monitor sound system, above that is a dual tape deck and above that a CD deck this is used for none sync music, that you hear coming from the front left and right stereo JBL in the auditorium.

Next to that is the Dolby DA-10 Dolby Digital processor below that is the Dolby CP-200 processor with multiple 27 band 1/3 octave EQ for left centre right split-surrounds left centre and right centre screen channels, and Dolby A type NR this is regarded as a fine Dolby processor within the industry, also in the racking is a Dolby SR type module for Dolby SR type prints found on all 35mm prints to day SR-D as there so called.

With around 15Kw of sound power you can imagine what "Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade" must have sounded like, as well as Star Trek, totally out of this world I swear.

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A different angle showing the awesome mighty powerful, note in this picture placed below the THX 3417 crossover monitor is a dts CD-Rom drive and decoder.

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The Empire as a few surprises up it's sleeve with a laser show presented before each running of the show, it's used to fantastic effect which is played along with a high tech fast tempo musical piece, which last for around 60 seconds, though today it's not used well at least the last time I saw it operating was back in 1995, well Id be very surprised to know it back up and running.

As this played some funky Star Trek images played over the screen and around the auditorium walls with U.S.S. Enterprise attacking a Klingon bird of Pray LOL that was exciting, then the lights dimmed the music faded and moderately the music started up and grandly pressing on you body Star Trek 3 was a real kicker.

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Closer inspection of the Philips DP 70 projector though there only 35mm film running on the projector via the reels each reel can show 15 to 20 minutes of film, in this mode to projectors would have to be used and change over cues or cigarette burns, that appear in the upper right hand corner oval shaped ones for scope prints and circular ones for W/S widescreen prints same for 70mm prints.

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[JBL 4645]

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The spec as follows:-

Dolby CP650SD (10 channel AES/EBU Output Studio version)
Dolby CP200/DA20/MPU-1/SA10 retained for 70mm magnetic and backup replay. CP200 Modified with CAT 64B EQ cards removed for lower noise operation.
2x SDDS DFP2000 (One main, one backup)

5x DBX4800 24bit/96Khz Loudspeaker Management Systems with HiQNET Control. Digital Feed from CP650, Analogue Feed from CP200/SDDS.

5x JBL Custom Screen Array each fed by 1x Crown CTs2000 and 1x Crown CTs3000 Amplifiers

16x JBL 4645C Sub Bass fed by 8x Crown CTs 3000 Amplifiers

42x JBL 8340A Surround Loudspeakers individually driven and time-aligned from 6x Crown CTs8200 8-Channel Amplifiers

Total System Power 56kW

The system now carries THX license

Screen size has now been increased to a maximum 18.26x8.14m

http://www.jblpro.com/pub/cinema/8340.pdf (http://www.jblpro.com/pub/cinema/8340.pdf)

http://www.jblproservice.com/pdf/The...ries/4645C.pdf (http://www.jblproservice.com/pdf/Theatre%20Series/4645C.pdf)

The midrange horn and high frequency drivers in this link are the same as seen at the Empire
http://www.jblpro.com/pressroom/Scre...rrayPatent.htm (http://www.jblpro.com/pressroom/ScreenArra...ArrayPatent.htm)

Not sure about the JBL bass mid cab, looks familiar, just can’t put my tongue on the model number.


Crown amplifiers CTS 2000 for the five-screen array
http://sales.concert-systems.com/sales/CRO-CTS2000.html (http://sales.concert-systems.com/sales/CRO-CTS2000.html)

Crown CTS 3000 for the five-screen array and sub bass array
http://sales.concert-systems.com/sales/CRO-CTS3000.html (http://sales.concert-systems.com/sales/CRO-CTS3000.html)

Crown CTS 8200 for the surround array
http://sales.concert-systems.com/sales/CRO-CTS8200.html (http://sales.concert-systems.com/sales/CRO-CTS8200.html)

http://sales.concert-systems.com/images/items/dbx-4800.jpg

dbx 4800
http://www.dbxpro.com/4800/4800.htm (http://www.dbxpro.com/4800/4800.htm)

Hope you enjoyed the show boys and girls…:)

[JBL 4645]

:blink: :D:applaud: :p The JBL 4645C Sub Bass cluster is 8 feet and 9” high and 13 feet and 10” wide!!!!!!!:blink: :D :applaud: :p

[Titanium Dome]

Well done, well done.

Thank you for such a complete and wonderful look behind the scenes. It's a real treat! :bouncy:

[JBL 4645]

Titanium Dome

Hope it didn’t make you fall off the chair, it is a KICK butt cinema you can rest assured, I’ve got take a trip to the Empire, I haven’t been since Gladiator, which was back in the summertime of 2000, and even then they where using Martin Audio five-screen and surrounds, with the original JBL x8 sub bass array and it was missing something that wasn’t JBL sound it was too bright with Martin Audio screen spec.

So JBL is back where it rightfully belongs behind the screen and around you, 42 8340 WOW that’s the ticket!

So if you happen to visit the UK check out the Empire a JBL installation of Sound power!:applaud:

[Ducatista47]

Magnificent, thank you for the look. Even my trips to the Michael Todd and the Todd Cinestage theaters in Chicago were not that grand. Todd-AO was great, though. I also saw Cinerama projection there, Windjammer, and the only film in Smell-o-vision, The Scent Of Mystery. I'm such a packrat I may still have the souvenir programs. :o:

Nice Popcorn Palace! How much is a ticket?

Clark in Peoria

[JBL 4645]

Ducatista47

I believe it’s less than £10.00 for the first show of the day and then it goes up!

Hay mate, get some pictures of the cinema that you have found to be inspiring as the Empire sold me the JBL concept 17 years ago, remarkable out of this world!:applaud:

[JBL 4645]

Ducatista47

EMPIRE
http://www.empirecinemas.co.uk/index.php?p...o&tbx_site_id=5 (http://www.empirecinemas.co.uk/index.php?page=cinemainfo&tbx_site_id=5)

Empire Leicester SquareContact Information

EMPIRE CINEMAS

Leicester Square

London

WC2H 7NA

General Manager: Stephen Bush

Public Transport

Travelling by Underground:

By Tube

The Nearest Tube stations are Leicester Square or Piccadilly Circus.

Travelling By Bus:

Leicester Square is only a short walk from Bus Routes serving Charing Cross, Haymarket, Shaftsbury Ave & Trafalgar Square

Travelling by Train:

Nearby Charing Cross station, served by South East Rail is only a 10 minute walk from the cinema.

For further details on bus, rail & underground travel please call London Travel Inquiries on 020 7222 1234.

Driving Directions

Local car parks are NCP’s, located at China Town and Swiss Centre and there is a also council operated car park at Witcombe St. All car parks are within 5 minutes walk of the cinema. Prices are in line with central London parking costs.

Local Facilities

The cinema is situated in the heart of London’s West End. There are a vast variety of Restaurants, Shops and Night Clubs within walking distance of the cinema.

A Travelex cash Dispenser is located next to the Ben & Jerry’s Café.

Disabled Facilities

All screens are fitted with Infra Red Hearing Systems, compatible with most hearing aids. Please ask a cast member at the cinema for further details.

Disabled seating in Screen 1 only.

Disabled Entrance/Exit on Leicester Street.

CEA Card: As part of a general cinema industry initiative, all our cinemas accept the CEA Card which entitles the holder to one free ticket for their carer.

Auditorium information for EMPIRE LEICESTER SQUARE

Number of seats and the sound system in each screen:

Screen 1: THX – 56K Watt certified sound system.

1330 seats

8 Wheelchair Spaces

Screen 2:

349 seats

DDS

Screen 3:

77 seats

DDS

Hearing Systems :

HL/IL - Induction Hearing Loop system

IR - Infra-red system (Please ask for a headset at box office)

Sound Systems:

THX

DSS - Dolby Surround Sound

DDS - Dolby Digital Surround

DTS - Digital Theatre Sound

SDDS - Sony Dynamic Digital Sound

SR - Spectral Recording

SRD - Spectral Recording Digital

Audio description:

Where the film makers have provided the required digital disk, a voiceover that describes the scene and action of the film is played through a special headset in this auditoria. The headsets can be obtained from our box office.

Digital :

Where the film makers have provided the required digital disk, certain performances in this auditoria will have captions on-screen. These performances will be listed separately with the word "Captioned" after the film title.


List of films at the Empire and prices
http://www.empirecinemas.co.uk/index.php?page=nowshowing&tbx_site_id=5

[JBL 4645]

I was juts looking over at the customized screen array which I use as my deck top, thinking the bass mid was made up of 15” JBL drivers. Clearly not there made up of 18” sub bass drivers the JBL 4642 18” here’s the specifications.

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Features
1200 Watts Continuous Pink Noise, 2400 Watts Continuous Program Power Handling
Usable response to 22 Hz (-10 dB, no EQ), flat to 22 Hz (-3 dB) with External EQ
Approved by Lucasfilm, Ltd. for THX® installations

Specs
Low Frequency Driver : (2) 2241H
Frequency Range : 22 Hz - 500 Hz (-10 dB)
Power Capacity (Continuous Pink Noise) : 1200 Watts

Power Capacity (Continuous Program) : 2400 Watts
Sensitivity : 101 dB SPL (1W, 1m, 3.3ft.)
Crossover Frequency : 80-150 Hz recommended
Nominal Impedance : 4 ohms
Width : 48 inch (1219 mm)
Height : 30 inch (762 mm)
Depth : 24 inch (610 mm)
Net Weight : 216 lbs. (98 kg)

[JBL 4645]

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It might be raining outside but on the inside with 56KW of JBL THX sound power on tap, that will clearly put a huge smile on your JBL face! :) :applaud:

If you are one of many around the world who has visited the Empire why not talk about here or on the Cinema Treasures http://cinematreasures.org/theater/912/
Empire, so see you at the movies with JBL and THX sound!:)

[JBL 4645]

Found this on the Harman site




[FONT=Times New Roman]Empire cinemas choose Harman Group for flagship refit

http://www.harmanprouk.com/images/thumbnail.aspx?type=news&width=500&filename=EmpireFront.jpg

Date of issue : 18 Aug 2006

Empire Cinemas Limited knew they had a task on their hands when they assumed responsibility for the Empire cinema, in London’s Leicester Square. Once the flagship cinema of the UCI chain, and the venue for many European film premieres in the past, the theatre was sorely in need of a refit; its once state-of-the-art surround sound system was outdated, and it had lost its THX licence, the Lucasfilm sound specification seen by many as the ‘gold standard’ for cinema sound. When the newly formed Empire Cinemas group took over the venue in late 2005, they knew that they wanted to return the cinema to its former glories — and surpass them. And they wanted that THX licence back. So they turned to some of the best names in cinema sound to help them. The completed installation, a custom-built system assembled with the help of the Harman Group and renowned London-based cinema installation specialists Bell Theatre Services, includes an impressive array of Harman Group equipment. There are Crown power amps, dbx DriveRack 4800 processors, and JBL custom ScreenArray™ speakers containing technology for which JBL engineers received the Technical Achievement Award from the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences. Everything is networked with CobraNet™ technology, and managed using Harman’s proprietary HiQNet™ control protocol.

The involvement of JBL is no surprise to anyone familiar with the history of cinema sound; some of the earliest products developed by company founder James B Lansing over 70 years ago were cinema loudspeakers, and sixty percent of cinema speakers sold today worldwide are made by JBL. Indeed, the former sound system at the Empire was built around JBL speakers, which is what led the Empire’s new management to contact Harman Pro UK, the British arm of JBL’s parent group. And Max Bell, Managing Director of Bell Theatre Services, was only too happy with Empire’s choice. “We’ve always used JBL speakers”, says Bell. “For me, they’re the best on the market — and JBL are still the only speaker company that has a proper research division, which means their products are always improving. We’ve always had a close relationship with Crown International, too — we specify a lot of JBL/Crown systems.”

One of the reasons Empire Cinemas took on Bell Theatre was that the latter have had a long association with the venue — Bell had carried out the Empire’s previous refit, back in 1988. And Empire were sparing no expense this time around, as André Mort, Technical Manager at Empire Cinemas Limited, explains: "As a new organisation within the UK cinema industry, we wanted to show that only the best would do for such an important venue." "They said ‘Go for it. This is our flagship; we want the best’," adds Max Bell. "So that’s what we gave them".

The refurbishment, which reportedly cost a six-figure sum, involved enlarging the projection screen to dimensions of 18.2 by 7.68 metres, reconstructing and acoustically treating the space behind the screen and rebuilding the THX baffle wall, and completely revamping the cinema’s sound system. The completed setup comprises a Dolby CP650 digital processor, five newly THX-certified 96kHz-capable dbx 4800 DriveRack processors to manage the loudspeaker channels and handle delay compensation in the auditorium, and the power amplifiers: 13 CTs 3000s, six CTs 8200s, and five Crown CTs 2000s. This range of amps drives the generous complement of 16 JBL 4645C 18-inch subwoofers and 42 JBL 8340A surround speakers (each of which has a dedicated amp channel), as well as the five JBL Custom ScreenArray™ 5632 full-range, four-way speakers, which handle the Left, inner Left, Centre, inner Right, and Right channels. Everything is managed via Harman’s HiQNet™ digital control protocol from a PC in the projector room.

In keeping with their usual hands-on approach, Harman closely assisted Bell Theatre as the refit proceeded, providing advice on system design and configuration and ensuring the equipment arrived on time. This was a particularly important role, given that the entire refit had to be completed in just two weeks, before the start of the important summer blockbuster season. As the project neared its end, Harman also sent Mark Bailey of JBL’s European Technical Support team to help fine-tune the finished auditorium’s acoustics.

With the work complete, the reopened Empire is now capable of an earth-trembling combined sound output of 56kW — a great improvement over its former 13kW best. And of course, the THX certification is now firmly back on the cinema’s wall. The only element remaining from the original installation is a Dolby CP200 analogue processor, which has been retained for those occasions when the cinema wishes to screen restored 70mm analogue prints. Thus the Empire is now capable of handling the best in analogue and digital formats, as befits a top-flight London cinema. “I’ve been involved with The Empire for many years,” comments André Mort, “and the performance of the new system has greatly exceeded my expectations.”

Dave Budge of Harman Pro UK comments, “It’s a pleasure to be involved with Empire Cinemas, who have committed to this considerable investment in the name of making the cinema experience at the Empire truly memorable.”

[doodlebug]

I spent a couple of years in and out of Europe earlier in this decade and managed to miss the Empire. Walked by in many times.....or should I say, ran by it when it was raining.

Well, now I've got something to get back there for. And I miss the street fairs, too, not to mention the pubs....

Thanks for the well-documented tour through the Empire, too.

Cheers,

David

[JBL 4645]

doodlebug

No worries mate. I’m thinking about popping up there to catch “Apocalypto” which starts this Friday. I might go along the week after, it’s going to cost me the best part of £30.00 pounds for the day that is around £20.00 pounds for a return ticket travelling and around £10.00 pounds or less to get into the Empire and I will take a long my digital camera to document the day.

If I play my cards right I might see if I can pop on up to the booth and get a little bit more feedback, but this will only be via special appointment and seeing I have had some involvement working for UCI and Warner Bros, shouldn’t to too much trouble.

It would be nice if you’re popping over for the day or two anyway I’m glad you liked the pictures and the detailed description of the Empire Leicester square.

You take care or yourself.:)

[JBL 4645]

At the Empire Leicester square in 70mm

Seeing "Star Trek II the Wrath of Khan" at London’s Empire Leicester square cinema screen # 1 back on warm Sunday October 8th 1989 which was part of an all day Star Trek event which started at 11am in the morning with a packed out Empire was totally out of this world for sound presentation via the Dolby stereo six-track and the Lucasfilm THX crossover system which was accompanied by a huge JBL loudspeaker array delivering up close to 16KW of brut sound power of high fidelity had to be heard!

The first show stared off with 35mm Dolby stereo optical print of Star Trek the Motion Picture which for an optical track sounded great all the richness of the soundtracks sound elements where faithful reproduced without colourization of the sound it fitted the screen size perfectly.

The 70mm six-track Dolby stereo experience!

Star Trek II presented in 70mm went just that bit further in terms of sound the opening titles was deep from the moment the James Horner score started over a Paramount Pictures logo, it gradually builds up in layers where its presence started to vibrate the chair with certain parts of frequency range pressing on me!

One moment in the film that I thought was quite impressive was when Khan, lifted Pavel Chekov off the floor whoa, this was a quite ambient scene and where all that low came from I still haven’t the first clue thou I’m sure most of it is in the centre channel mix after playing the same scene on region 2 DVD. Now I have seen this many times projected in the cinema via several 35mm optical Dolby prints but never like this, yes this is how it should sound and feel with lots of drama that makes the audience gasp!

http://i174.photobucket.com/albums/w118/Brainstorm3417/StarTrek2KahnliftsChekov.jpg


Its not easy to play a scene like this and then later where the U.S.S. Enterprise is being attacked by a vengefully disgruntled Khan why who could blame him, suddenly you reach for the volume as it seems too bright sounding in the high frequencies as the phasers fire from the fronts then pan to surrounds within milliseconds its all too much for the home.

Getting all to sound right in the home varies from home to home the type of loudspeakers amplifiers equalizers room acoustics how one might customized the sound system to have a unique difference over most its about how far one is willing to take it and make its conviction sound good without muddying up the sound.

[frequenZ]

Amazing isn't it? You'd absolutely enjoy watching a movie here.


____________
paolo
McIntosh MA2275 Integrated Amplifier (http://www.who-sells-it.com/cy/mcintosh-laboratory-inc-1500/ma2275-integrated-amplifier-5972.html) - MA2275 Integrated Amplifier Catalog by McIntosh Laboratory, Inc.

[JBL 4645]

http://i174.photobucket.com/albums/w118/Brainstorm3417/EMPIRELASERLIGHTSHOW3.jpg

This is one of my favourite youtube videos courtesy of Fred Fullerton, former chief projectionist of the EMPIRE.:p

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nQivA1_ajrg& (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nQivA1_ajrg&)

Sadly the laser show isn’t presented anymore which is a shame, but what an impression it gave before the upcoming main feature.

[JBL 4645]

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Well I see that “DIE HARD LIVE FREE” will be playing at the famous EMPIRE Leicester square on JULY 6th Friday of next month! Well I know how crazy it gets there even on the first day and booking is more than likely taken up in some spots that I would like to sit though.

http://forum.ecoustics.com/bbs/messages/289508/362480.jpg

So plan is to go up one week after 11th JULY Wednesday, I’ll buy a coach ticket one day in advance for an early trip to London West End. I’ll Pack my bag with few munchies and more importantly the digital camera for picture taking has I haven been to the EMPIRE since September 2000!

http://forum.ecoustics.com/bbs/messages/289508/362481.jpg

That is next months plan and this would be a great opportunity to check out the new JBL THX sound system with 56KW of THX JBL sound power. I’ll also pack the SPL db metre to see what this new improvement can deliver over the last THX JBL installation that was removed from EMPIRE’S projection booth something around late1998 and the JBL loudspeaker array was changed over to Martin Audio loudspeakers which didn’t do justice to “Gladiator” around September 2000.
http://forum.ecoustics.com/bbs/messages/289508/362482.jpg

Ticket price to get in on the first showing is £8.00 pounds and I know is worth the price of admission with plush plumb red rocker chairs excellent interior decoration and colourful lighting system and JBL THX 56KW of sound power, which makes the EMPIRE Leicester square screen #1 the most powerfulness THX screen in the whole of Europe!:applaud:

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[JBL 4645]

Here’s a nice but rather rare occasion to see the director and stars from of Apollo 13 at the CIC Empire Leicester square.:)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AnLpZcX-5ms (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AnLpZcX-5ms)

[JBL 4645]

Found this Youtube Video of the famous Empire Leicester Square screen 1 yeah this is where I’ll be popping up to sometime soon for DIE HARD JBL 56KW THX sound power!:applaud::banana::bouncy::p:nutz:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uOBe43QIde4&mode=related&search (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uOBe43QIde4&mode=related&search)=

I guess they didn’t see Oceans13 in THX! Wow would you get a load of the JBL 8340 surrounds on the sidewalls! http://av123forum.com/images/smilies/drool.gif http://av123forum.com/images/smilies/drool.gif http://av123forum.com/images/smilies/drool.gif http://av123forum.com/images/smilies/drool.gif
The music playing in the background from the front custom JBL screen array was from “Vertigo” by Bernard Herrmann.

[JBL 4645]

Well un-regrettable DIE HARD wasn’t showing in Empire screen yesterday as it was only playing for three weeks exclusively in THX. But I did however managed to see “Transformers” the new Michael Bay “Armageddon” king of loudness and loud and low was what it was. It was a fighting battle between robots that can transform into mechanical devices.

Steven the deputy manager on site yesterday was very welcoming at giving me the okay to take pictures of this grand looking cinema that we have over here in England.

After been shown around for a brief while by Tony duty booth projectionist whose been working for UCI for several years took great pride of what he does on the daily basics at the famous Empire in the world.

The storyline was very wooden as well was acting as well being quite disorientating, but I was only hear for the sound.

Sounded measured quite high from the front row VERY, with clear undistorted levels approaching to 100dbA with great support of low end bass and LFE.1 authority by the JBL custom screen array and HUGE MEGA HUGE sub bass array which is made up of 16x JBL 4645C.

Thee most lowest and deepest moment in the film was the final battle on the streets while one of the transformers gets blown away while rolling and spinning though the air as it heads towards you! All sound levels dropped down to being quite and the LFE.1 growled deeply at close to 120dbc.

I meet a new friend at the Empire that day who just so happened to be going to the cinema with his dad and overhead my name when calling on the intercom outside. I was a bit staggered and surprised that for someone who’s been reading the forum posts on the many sites who called me the JBL guy? And after being properly introduced we had a rather fun time watching and listening to Transformers in Dolby digital THX.

I was there yesterday for the showing of Transformers in Empire #1 THX sound system and it was mega I mean loud and very deep. Sat right at the front and the screen size was MEGA!

http://i174.photobucket.com/albums/w118/Brainstorm3417/EmpireLeicesterSquareplacingtheTran.jpg

http://i174.photobucket.com/albums/w118/Brainstorm3417/EmpireLeicesterSquareLondon2.jpg

http://i174.photobucket.com/albums/w118/Brainstorm3417/EmpireLeicesterSquareLondon4.jpg

http://i174.photobucket.com/albums/w118/Brainstorm3417/EmpireLeicesterSquareLondon6.jpg

http://i174.photobucket.com/albums/w118/Brainstorm3417/EmpireLeicesterSquareLondon8.jpg

http://i174.photobucket.com/albums/w118/Brainstorm3417/Empirescreen1boothracksystem4.jpg

http://i174.photobucket.com/albums/w118/Brainstorm3417/Empirescreen1boothracksystem3.jpg

[JBL 4645]

The arrays of dbx 4280 which control and protect the loudspeakers in the auditorium makes prefect sense, the rest of the Crown amplifiers where housed behind the THX baffle wall to keep cable lengths to a minimum seems reasonable while the Crowns racked up in the rack control the surround arrays.

http://i174.photobucket.com/albums/w118/Brainstorm3417/Empirescreen1boothracksystem2.jpg

http://i174.photobucket.com/albums/w118/Brainstorm3417/Empirescreen1boothracksystem1.jpg

http://i174.photobucket.com/albums/w118/Brainstorm3417/Empirescreen1boothFP30Dprojector1.jpg

http://i174.photobucket.com/albums/w118/Brainstorm3417/Empirescreen1boothFP30Dprojector.jpg

I asked Tony if the new sound system had meet with the expectations and he clear said “it surpassed them many times” and surpassed it did the range of dynamic range in the cinema was too incredible and quite frankly quite untouchable.

[JBL 4645]

The pictures are slightly on the dark side of the moon I know but that’s technology for you, the cameras flash I guess isn’t that bright for large spaces like the Empire but at closer range shots it seems to work out fine.

http://i174.photobucket.com/albums/w118/Brainstorm3417/Empireneonlightingsystemrighthan-1.jpg

http://i174.photobucket.com/albums/w118/Brainstorm3417/Empireneonlightingsystemrighthandsi.jpg

http://i174.photobucket.com/albums/w118/Brainstorm3417/Empireneonlightingsystemmiddle.jpg

http://i174.photobucket.com/albums/w118/Brainstorm3417/Empireneonlightingsystemlefthandyel.jpg

http://i174.photobucket.com/albums/w118/Brainstorm3417/Empireneonlightingsystemlefthandsid.jpg

The tiles fitted to the sidewalls was one of curiosity as to what type of material they where made of? It seemed like extra ones where added thou I can’t be certain unless consulting one of the installers that made the modifications to Empire 1.

http://i174.photobucket.com/albums/w118/Brainstorm3417/Empireneonlightingsystemlefthand-1.jpg

[JBL 4645]

My friend Nabil who I meet at the Empire yesterday was counting up the arrays of JBL 8340 while I have seen the pictures in the pervious thread I was more interested with what the tiles where made of, and thou there is slight echo apparent in the Empire granted it is a very large auditorium and when you get fast dialogue the result is overlapping sounds which becomes a "cacophony" and you sit there thinking to yourself why can’t they speak slowly!

http://i174.photobucket.com/albums/w118/Brainstorm3417/EmpirenenoJBLsurround8340.jpg

There was the odd moment when things calmed down but remember this a Michael Bay film and most of his films tend to have fast duologue, doesn’t he realize that if you have fast dialogue its going to be very hard to understand you must allow a few moments for the dialogue to decay in the background. Sound effects sound great mixed my Kevin O’Connell I wonder if he’ll pick up his golden boy this time? The score in the film sounded like Zimmer thou I didn’t see the credit and I wasn’t too impressed with the score on this film.

http://i174.photobucket.com/albums/w118/Brainstorm3417/Empiremestandingbackdarklighting.jpg

http://i174.photobucket.com/albums/w118/Brainstorm3417/Empirelookinguptowardsboothattherea.jpg

http://i174.photobucket.com/albums/w118/Brainstorm3417/Empirelookingdowntowardsthefrontdar.jpg

[JBL 4645]

My first Youtube video of the Empire it’s a rather brief one without sound as its only a camera with short video capability.:)

Empire cinema screen 1
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mqBcryDhR2A (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mqBcryDhR2A)

[JBL 4645]

This is Fred’s Youtube of the Empire when he worked there now retired.

Empire Leicester Square 3
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ipx-ryxGkMk&session=-Tzf0pZAq_sjzAWoaTUTKPPAHJqE6ePkqJm6MTbVPKnXVBAU0e1 WMiU8g5j_YTZ-_K5OF0ETf2elzuL-F-WmZuqOWRhHZBv9iuF0dPX3QqzwxHWoAHoqmwVMOtGfXf-krjPXKL1UYM-8bZOMm4qMweemYqhdKEIV0t3rXhoh7-N0vxvTMtDPivVHbi_ABV7_wJK9q5Jt_Lfs8f-oGLH-p4k9vIGA6oUhTs8yy9RRbBE (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ipx-ryxGkMk&session=-Tzf0pZAq_sjzAWoaTUTKPPAHJqE6ePkqJm6MTbVPKnXVBAU0e1 WMiU8g5j_YTZ-_K5OF0ETf2elzuL-F-WmZuqOWRhHZBv9iuF0dPX3QqzwxHWoAHoqmwVMOtGfXf-krjPXKL1UYM-8bZOMm4qMweemYqhdKEIV0t3rXhoh7-N0vxvTMtDPivVHbi_ABV7_wJK9q5Jt_Lfs8f-oGLH-p4k9vIGA6oUhTs8yy9RRbBE)=

[JBL 4645]

Here a rather brief view of some THX brochures, if I had a picture scanner where I could have gotten more detail but this is better than nothing.

http://i174.photobucket.com/albums/w118/Brainstorm3417/THX1.jpg

http://i174.photobucket.com/albums/w118/Brainstorm3417/THX2.jpg

http://i174.photobucket.com/albums/w118/Brainstorm3417/THX3.jpg

http://i174.photobucket.com/albums/w118/Brainstorm3417/THX4.jpg

http://i174.photobucket.com/albums/w118/Brainstorm3417/THX5.jpg

[JBL 4645]

http://i233.photobucket.com/albums/ee15/Evolution3417/IndianaJonesIV.jpg

The man with the hat is back May 22nd 2008 Empire Leicester square London, in digital presentation 56KW THX JBL sound system.:p

Empire Leicester square
http://www.empirecinemas.co.uk/index.php?page=synopsis&filmid=989 (http://www.empirecinemas.co.uk/index.php?page=synopsis&filmid=989)

[JBL 4645]

Just gotten off the phone with Empire Leicester square, it would appear that there’s talk whether Indiana Jones IV will be showing at the Empire, I also asked if there will be possible that a, quad tipple bill of all four films, same answer. They think VUE may get it, well that would be kick in the teeth, as good sounding the VUE is it didn’t impress me when I saw Maverick in Dolby stereo SR THX back in 1994.

I’m confident that Empire will get it.

However there’s a science fiction film playing at Empire at the end of the week called Cover Field, I’m not a huge fan of W/S 1.85:1 and its only 85 minutes running time, but still 56KW of THX JBL is better than a true kick in the teeth.

http://www.imdb.com/title/tt1060277/ (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt1060277/)

Jumper this is another fiction film that plays at Empire on February 14th, bummer valentine’s day? I like the look of the credits in the sound category Paul Massey (sound re-recording mixer) I think I’ll take a chance on this and this wouldn’t be the first time I’ve seen a film at Empire on February 14th. Star Trek VI 1992 in 70mm Dolby stereo THX was trilling full day. So Jumper it is. :)

http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0489099/ (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0489099/)

[Krunchy]

Thanks you Ashley, that does seem like a great place to see a movie. I would have thought the interior would have been a little more tradiotional especially since the entrance seems so grand. But it seems like a nice mix of traditional and modern. I also think it is very appropriate that a statue of Charlie Chaplin is just outside of it, he deserves that honor and much more. There used to be great theaters in NY and I am sure all around the country but I think for the most part they have gone the way of the multiplex. A shame really, for going to the movies used to be a special treat, a grand ocasion and some of the theaters were just magnificent.
Glad something of it is still around though :) I'll keep it in mind next time I'm in town :applaud:

[JBL 4645]

Thanks you Ashley, that does seem like a great place to see a movie. I would have thought the interior would have been a little more tradiotional especially since the entrance seems so grand. But it seems like a nice mix of traditional and modern. I also think it is very appropriate that a statue of Charlie Chaplin is just outside of it, he deserves that honor and much more. There used to be great theaters in NY and I am sure all around the country but I think for the most part they have gone the way of the multiplex. A shame really, for going to the movies used to be a special treat, a grand ocasion and some of the theaters were just magnificent.
Glad something of it is still around though :) I'll keep it in mind next time I'm in town :applaud:

You know there are two other screens at Empire; one is underneath screen 1 Empire 2, which is a bit smaller than Empire 1. Upstairs is Empire 3 which is way smaller than Empire 2, when I pop on there again, soon I hope, I’ll take some pictures of Empire 2 and 3.

[JBL 4645]

New Indiana Jones trailer
http://www.theraider.net/films/indy4..._teaser_01.php (http://www.theraider.net/films/indy4..._teaser_01.php)

Its looking good can’t wait to hear this in THX at the Empire Leicester square! :p

http://i232.photobucket.com/albums/ee18/DemolitionMan3417/IndianaJonesandtheKingdomoftheCryst.jpg

http://i232.photobucket.com/albums/ee18/DemolitionMan3417/IndianaJonesandtheKingdomoftheCr-1.jpg

http://i232.photobucket.com/albums/ee18/DemolitionMan3417/IndianaJonesandtheKingdomoftheCr-2.jpg

http://i232.photobucket.com/albums/ee18/DemolitionMan3417/IndianaJonesandtheKingdomoftheCr-3.jpg

[JBL 4645]

Empire Leicester square screen 1 up front, this is where the floor slightly raises with nice curved flooring and nice curve that bends inwards.

http://i233.photobucket.com/albums/ee15/Evolution3417/EmpireLeicestersquarescreen1upfront.jpg

[JBL 4645]

http://i233.photobucket.com/albums/ee15/Evolution3417/1364_188.jpg
http://www.empirecinemas.co.uk/index.php?page=synopsis&filmid=188 (http://www.empirecinemas.co.uk/index.php?page=synopsis&filmid=188)

I’m not back just popping in to report that this Sunday the Empire Leicester Square will be screening a special digital presentation of The Spy who Loved Me (1977).


I have gotten off the phone with projection, and was told that technical crewmembers will be attending the screening, including director Lewis Gilbert.

Also I was told that Goldfinger was shown at the Empire last year, how that one missed me, I don’t know?

I’ll take a few snap shots and upload sometime next week.


Performance starts on Sunday April 20th at 14:00
Tickets are £13.50p free seating, throughout Empire 1, 1130 seats.

I’ll be getting my couch ticket this week for Sunday’s Bondastic THX showing, miss this no way, its been 31 years since, I’ve seen this on large screen at Bournemouth’s Gaumont screen 2 summertime,1977 and that was in 35mm scope 2.35:1, optical mono sound.

Technical cinema information
http://www.empirecinemas.co.uk/index.php?page=cinemainfo&tbx_site_id=5 (http://www.empirecinemas.co.uk/index.php?page=cinemainfo&tbx_site_id=5)

[Krunchy]

I remember seeing that one in theaters back then, Roger was the man! I always liked him the best out of all the other Bonds, probably because he was the first one I ever saw. I remember that car too, classic Bond.
That should be a fun flick to see again, I'm sure you'll have a great time :)

[JBL 4645]

I remember seeing that one in theaters back then, Roger was the man! I always liked him the best out of all the other Bonds, probably because he was the first one I ever saw. I remember that car too, classic Bond.
That should be a fun flick to see again, I'm sure you'll have a great time :)


Thnaks, no doubt I will.:) As for the Bond, car I’ve have a, some small collection of these replicas including the [Lotus Esprit, PPW 306R] that I keep in the plastic box because I’d like to keep it in pristine condition.

[JBL 4645]

Well I’ve got the ticket to Victoria train station for arrival at 9am. So I’ll have to look around or relax until 2pm performance of The Spy Who Loved Me. National Express coaches is :cool:£19.00.

[mikebake]

I’m not back just popping in
Love your logic, man, as in "I voted for the war before I voted against it".................................

[Krunchy]

Love your logic, man

There's a logic!? :D :rotfl:



So Ash, how was the flick :007:, did it live up to the hype, hope you got yourself a :homer: sized popcorn (and a drink, Homer sized as well). :)

[JBL 4645]

What I haven’t seen it yet, the film doesn’t start until this Sunday. No popcorn! Popcorn should be banned because it’s too noisy when :biting: on it!

Think about it! When you eat popcorn it makes an inner sound crunching sound that might mask some sounds coming from in front or around you. Popcorn is too noisy!

Hotdog just might get pass with [THX certification :D] because it’s less noisy; it will make a lesser inner sound noise inside your head that you can hear. The hmmm, smell might be distracting taking some viewers attention! Away from the screen, now then!

Drinking also makes an inner sound noise. Anyway you go to watch and listen to movie. Not eat it! LOL I might buy some [milk and nice healthy sandwich] on Sunday. The last time I drank milk in the cinema was Titanic (1997) early (1998) at the ABC Bournemouth, screen 1, in Dolby SR-D, which I saw around 12 or 14 times crazy amount of viewing and that’s a lot of milk! LOL :)

[Krunchy]

Sorry Ashley, i thought you already saw it, the whole victoria station thing. In any case, I'm not a big popcorn guy anyway, Id rather have a fish and chips in liue of a hot dog. :D

[JBL 4645]

Sorry Ashley, i thought you already saw it, the whole victoria station thing. In any case, I'm not a big popcorn guy anyway, Id rather have a fish and chips in liue of a hot dog. :D

Hello Krunchy

Somehow I don’t think they serve fish & chips at the Empire, I’ll ask the manager if its an option to allow fish & chips into the cinema.:D

Right now I’m enjoying afternoon lunch, “chicken hotpot” only 99p from ASDA, tasty! ;)


I had to rest my feet for a day because I practically walked all the way down to Winton, though to Holdenhurst road ASDA yesterday.

If the weather is good on Sunday, I’ll walk to Leicester square, if isn’t then I’ll take the tube, underground train.

I’ll be taking my SPL db meter with me to take down some readings in the front row now and then as well as noting the scene and then compare that with the home.

[JBL 4645]

Empire Leicester square, one Bondfantsic day and more!

I arrived at, Victoria train station, “shaken but not sired” LOL because I couldn’t get a single nights wink, fearing I would miss the coach trip.

It was said by Lewis Gilbert, that this is one of favourite Bond films that had everything in it.

And so rightfully it does a lot new dervish or should I say old, villains and lots of tongue and cheek that made nearly packed out Empire chuckle at some of the one-liners. “All those feathers, and he still can’t fly” yeah that typical Bond, attitude all right.

The atmosphere was very nice, different types of technical crew members turning up for this, one day event willing to share there views or even allow a few pictures to mark the days one off showing on one the UK largest THX screens and one Europe’s most powerful THX certified JBL sound system boasting sonic delight of 56KW on tap for even the die hardest of Bond fans.

Lewis Gilbert commented about the state of digital “digitally” and it seemed why over his head, from going to 35mm film to restoration of single frame being captured, cleaned up and stored digitally.

There where a few technical issues that I heard [instantaneously 50 minutes into the presentation]! The centre channel shifted from centre and no, this wasn’t intentional dialogue panning, I do know what dialogue panning sounds like, now then!

Also there was edging something I never thought I’d see on this transfer as is the same with the first edition that I have on region 2 DVD.

Going back to the sound issue, the film was original mixed for [monaural] and played back in optical mono on the original 35mm prints back in (1977).

My first thought was “oh my god” they’ve f&^%ked the mid and high range drivers up due to aggressive overload! I knew somehow that was imposable because mid and high range drivers are protected via the (dbx4800) fast peak audio limiters.

So it must have been a dodgy print they like to call it, a print. I call it transfer because its nothing more than transfer from film to digital storage that failed due to deaf ears or lack of supervision.

What also makes me laugh is when I brought it to the management’s attention where they informed the projectionist who checked the issue out. I had to leave my seat again twice! And I’ve had to do that once in all the years that I have attended Empire 1.

I missed the best part of 20 minutes of the film and that really chassed me off! I was slightly ignored by the chief projectionist on when the film ended and I wanted to have few words, seeing that I have paid £13.50 and travelled 120 miles, he rudely walked out turning his back on me!

I have to say the other projectionists that I have meet there in the past where a lot more welcoming even as far as offering a cup of coffee in the coffee room, that is beside the projection booth.

Dave was the guys name and I don’t think I’d what to ever talk to him again, first impressions comes first and he really pissed me off.

Anyway I can’t help, “if I know what to look for and listen for”.

The sound pressure level was still top at 120dbc peak at the front thou the lows on this film where different then Transformers which I saw on 35mm scope Dolby SR-D last year, perfect even for 35mm film, now then!

The Spy Who Loved Me was played back in Dolby digital, or SR-D thou I have never seen it all working in booth and seeing its digital and not on film where it would normally hold a back-up analogue track in Dolby type SR.


http://i301.photobucket.com/albums/nn73/EmpireLeicesterSquare3417/EmpireLeicestersquareSunday202008Em.jpg

http://i301.photobucket.com/albums/nn73/EmpireLeicesterSquare3417/EmpireLeicestersquareSunday20200-1.jpg

http://i301.photobucket.com/albums/nn73/EmpireLeicesterSquare3417/EmpireLeicestersquareSunday20200-2.jpg

http://i301.photobucket.com/albums/nn73/EmpireLeicesterSquare3417/EmpireLeicestersquareSunday20200-3.jpg

Said hello to Mr. Lewis Gilbert, and thanked him.

http://i301.photobucket.com/albums/nn73/EmpireLeicesterSquare3417/EmpireLeicestersquareSunday20200-4.jpg

http://i301.photobucket.com/albums/nn73/EmpireLeicesterSquare3417/EmpireLeicestersquareSunday20200-5.jpg

These seats reserved for the technical crew or as its referred to as the sweet spot or money spot. Yeah sure I’ve sat here on numerous occasions in the past.

http://i301.photobucket.com/albums/nn73/EmpireLeicesterSquare3417/EmpireLeicestersquareSunday20200-6.jpg

http://i301.photobucket.com/albums/nn73/EmpireLeicesterSquare3417/EmpireLeicestersquareSunday20200-7.jpg

Hello Mr. Gilbert smile please.

http://i301.photobucket.com/albums/nn73/EmpireLeicesterSquare3417/EmpireLeicestersquareSunday20200-8.jpg

I think this was one of the technical personnel who responsible for the presentation of The Spy Who Loved Me.

http://i301.photobucket.com/albums/nn73/EmpireLeicesterSquare3417/EmpireLeicestersquareSunday20200-9.jpg

“Please don’t blame me, blame them” was rough quote that Mr. Gilbert said to the audience, with slight chuckle of laughter.

[JBL 4645]

Well I had no choice guys, to report this issue to the “THX division” and don’t like grassing up the Empire, my favourite UK THX screen 1.

This is the first time I had to report this, and it’s like this once you have all this fancy technology, you ether become too comfortable which = laziness, now then! Someone at Empire needs there a££ slapped for that screw up last Sunday, if this was anywhere else I really wouldn’t give a hoot! This was in a THX screen and THX mean’s that you should get 100% no distraction!
:banghead:


That’s the whole point of THX and George Lucas is right, “The Audience is Listening…!”

[JBL 4645]

http://i301.photobucket.com/albums/nn73/EmpireLeicesterSquare3417/EmpireLeicestersquareSunday20200-8.jpg

The guy hare is partly reasonable for last Sunday’s screening and from the looks of him, he’s way younger than me, and it doesn’t show that he knows what to look for or even listen for because I want my £13.50 back or free THX admission for next year with legitimate perfect Dolby film mixes not some half ass fake that’s been stripped from a mono soundtrack with trained Monkeys mixing it! That’s why NASA sent Monkeys into space first! Any fool can be trained to push buttons!

http://i301.photobucket.com/albums/nn73/EmpireLeicesterSquare3417/EmpireLeicestersquareSunday20200-6.jpg

Dave, ^^^^the guy in the white shirt was very snobby and very RUDE towards me, when he iginored and turned his back on me, I was f^*&king projectionist once and this rude little git dares to turn his back on me, when all I wanted was a few minutes to have calm conversation! I F%*king travelled 120 miles I bet he only has to travel 10 miles or so to his home the snobby little ignorant git!


Yeah I’m a little fanged to teeth.:biting: £13.50p! What WASTE! So don’t ever take these f&*)king re-mixes for granted that’s unless they really get done RIGHT!

"Oh there is just one other thing." just because he’s got his back turned towards the camera on this image, that was before I knew what he looked like when an usher pointed him out in the foyer, some 57 minutes into the digital show! And losing another 14 or so minutes including the 6 minutes when I had to leave the seat first time around!

When I called out to him and said excuse me, excuse me, he walked out the side-door entrance like he’s hot sh!t to London’s Empire!http://www.audioheritage.org/vbulletin/images/icons/icon8.gif

[JBL 4645]

See the person in the grey with a bra! It’s a GUY! http://www.avforums.com/forums/images/smilies/eek.gif

http://i301.photobucket.com/albums/nn73/EmpireLeicesterSquare3417/EmpireLeicestersquareSunday20200-7.jpg

LOL Transsexual or is that THsexual in a THX sound system cinema, no wonder they had sound issues 50 minutes into The Spy Who Loved Me, this guy left with the projectionist I Kidd you not!http://www.avforums.com/forums/images/smilies/rotfl.gif

And she I mean it left with Dave, in the white shirt, YIKES! No LOL thanks do I want to be in booth with this guy! Bend over let me, show the cake plate LOL! YIKES!http://www.avforums.com/forums/images/smilies/eek.gif

http://i301.photobucket.com/albums/nn73/EmpireLeicesterSquare3417/EmpireLeicestersquareSunday20200-6.jpg

When I asked if I could swap images she I mean YIKES! LOL anyway the guy sat next to me said she’s got a low deep voice? Isn’t that a guy! YIKES! I thought it was the Empire’s acoustics playing tricks on my ears. She I mean YIKES left me a calling card YIKES! I and just phoned her I mean YIKES it’s the crying game!:barf: YIKES! And yes it’s a guy! YIKES I didn’t leave message I hanged up! YIKES! http://www.avforums.com/forums/images/smilies/eek.gif

[demon]

well YIKES wheres the problem man?
let them people be who they want to be ;)

+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

serious buisness:
thanks for this thread, i really enjoy it.
great pictures!

i :biting: some popcorn reading it
mikey

[JBL 4645]

well YIKES wheres the problem man?
let them people be who they want to be ;)

+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

serious buisness:
thanks for this thread, i really enjoy it.
great pictures!

i :biting: some popcorn reading it
mikey

LOL what let them be? Well as long as they stay far, far away from me….can’t believe Empire had major technical sound issue that day, like I said it was bond to happen something its simple mathematics.

As for May 22nd 2008, I might see this Speed Racer in THX after I have seen Indiana Jones at the Odeon with a very poor narrow stereo front imaging that really doesn’t get around you. I ‘d have to sit right at the very front to assure I get good stereo imaging from the JBL 5000 series arrays of five-screen, thou five-screen is only used on a few 70mm magnetic films or SDDS8, and Indy isn’t going to be in SDDS8 so it will just be LCR fronts and stereo surrounds and sub bass LFE.1.

[JBL 4645]

Here is rough view of the edging that I noticed. Its similar to this first edition region 2 DVD where I’ve taken a screen capture and marked in red arrows where the edging is.


http://i233.photobucket.com/albums/ee15/Evolution3417/TheSpyWhoLovedMeedgingDVD1.jpg

50 minutes into the Dolby digital remix transfer!

Also here is rough 99.999% point of, when the sound fault occurred on this Dolby digital re-mix transfer, which resulted in the shifting of the centre channel dialogue ping-ponging back and forth, and no it wasn’t dialogue panning, I’ve heard far too many perfect mixes to know what dialogue panning sounds like!

After 5 or 6 seconds where the dialogue and sound effects including music was 80% on the right and 60% on the left sounded very foggy and very off putting!


http://i233.photobucket.com/albums/ee15/Evolution3417/TheSpyWhoLovedMesoundfaultcentrecha.jpg

[JBL 4645]

http://i279.photobucket.com/albums/kk123/IndianaJones34/thexfilesiwanttobelaive1.jpg

Well I’ve just got of the phone with Empire marketing and “The X-Files I want to Believe” (2008) is show in Empire screen 1 JBL 56KW THX which =
Xexcellent!

I’ll get a coach ticket a day before and travel up for some Xextraordinary 56KW front and centre row. I’ll take a very early morning ride up to assure I get front dead centre row because I like to parked right on top of the centre and have the wild wide, wide stereo fronts and 20Kw of sub bass and LFE.1 slamming me, kicking and knocking me, back in the plump red rocker chair with ear depth deep pressure up to 120dbc!

http://i279.photobucket.com/albums/kk123/IndianaJones34/TheX-FilesIwanttobelaive.jpg

[Hoerninger]

... slamming me, kicking and knocking me, back in the plump red rocker chair with ear depth deep pressure up to 120dbc!

Was it meant erotic? :D Have fun! :)
___________
Peter

[JBL 4645]

Was it meant erotic? :D Have fun! :)
___________
Peter

Yes I guess you can call it that Empire’s JBL 56KW THX is like hardcore sex to me.:rotfl:

I’m already getting Xexcited I’ll clam down in a few days and get the coach ticket 30th July Wednesday with small bit of shopping from ASDA, so there’s plenty of time, well 9 days and counting for my THX 56KW of medication.:D

[JBL 4645]

Well the truth starts today at the Empire Leicester Square screen 1, I’ve got the coach ticket and I’m heading off in the early hours. I’ve got the camera packed with freshly changed batteries and the SPL db meter as I take sound in cinema very seriously. I’ll report back later on today’s show in the late hours of tomorrow.

In the meantime here’s some youtube video’s from the UK premiere that took place yesterday.

X-Files: I Want To Believe Fan premiere
http://uk.youtube.com/watch?v=IVWx3N2A5dE

The X Files I Want To Believe - UK Premiere
http://uk.youtube.com/watch?v=7Y4wx8uqZsE

[JBL 4645]

The day out at London’s famous Leicester Square, wasn’t a bad day, all in all it was pucker.

The X-Files I want to Believe wasn’t a an all, too bad film and I’d rate it with 3 ½ stars.

Now to the meat of things the Dolby SR-D soundtrack wasn’t as powerful as Transformers on the new 56KW JBL THX sound system, or as powerful as some of the 70mm films that I’ve heard and felt on the original THX JBL specification that was only 13KW.

It was loud sure it had few lows but the sound system was only reproducing what is on the soundtrack as faithfully and richly than any other sub standard cinema system.

The most SPL db level was around from 110 to 115dbc while high ranges where considerably less on the mix. The snowplough crashing into the car was plenty loud and while there was no gunshots fired in the film was a little disappointing, but I’d take the snowplough anytime in the day and night as well.

Now if I can try and decipher my, shorthand writing on the notepad as I wrote a few descriptions on what was happening, now let’s see…

The presentation was a Dolby cinema digital screening and thou I did notice grain structure at, oh bugger I thought I noted the time, it was when Scully and Mulder where in bed and scene was darkly lit on the certain parts, I was sure I could see some visible pixilation movement, in the dark portions of the image, but it was the grain.

If you squint slightly you’re eye will soften the roughness of the grain out and that’s what I noticed when trying that out, it was mealy to see just how good digital projection was, thou I’m sure the film was 35mm to digital transfer, kinder like a 35mm to 70mm blow-up and not an original high definition HD film process, still no scratches in the vertical or horizontal or little specks of golf balls.

42 minutes into the film I noticed like many off screen sound effects over the widest THX screen in the UK a door handle being levered down (Right channel) as Scully enters a board hearing at the medical centre where she now works.

At 1 hour 18 minutes I could almost swore I saw X-Files creator (Chris Carter) sat down on bench in hallway on the left hand side of the screen for brief moment.

Music wasn’t too bad by Mark Snow who set the theme tone and is now part of TV and film history, just whistling a few bars and someone will say, X-files.

There was funny little gag in the film with film where Mulder and Scully go back to the FBI and Mulder notices a picture of most unpopular US president George W. Bush and an X-Files tune is played with slight laughter in the cinema.

I almost forget to mention, before the film started the non-sync was playing the (Mark Snow) score over what sounded like inner left and inner right or left extra and right extra as the sound was very tightly narrowed, while sat front and centre row.

Anyway on with the little picture show now and I took more than the last visit.


http://i301.photobucket.com/albums/nn73/EmpireLeicesterSquare3417/EmpireX-filesJBLTHXEmpire2.jpg

http://i301.photobucket.com/albums/nn73/EmpireLeicesterSquare3417/EmpireX-filesJBLTHXEmpire3.jpg

http://i301.photobucket.com/albums/nn73/EmpireLeicesterSquare3417/EmpireX-filesJBLTHXEmpire4.jpg

http://i301.photobucket.com/albums/nn73/EmpireLeicesterSquare3417/EmpireX-filesJBLTHXEmpire5.jpg

http://i301.photobucket.com/albums/nn73/EmpireLeicesterSquare3417/EmpireX-filesJBLTHXEmpire6.jpg


I took a few pictures with management permission of Empire 5 one of two new digital auditoriums that opened at Empire recently.


http://i301.photobucket.com/albums/nn73/EmpireLeicesterSquare3417/EmpireX-filesJBLTHXEmpire7.jpg

http://i301.photobucket.com/albums/nn73/EmpireLeicesterSquare3417/EmpireX-filesJBLTHXEmpire8.jpg

http://i301.photobucket.com/albums/nn73/EmpireLeicesterSquare3417/EmpireX-filesJBLTHXEmpire9.jpg

Due to the low light level I could barely tell what model JBL was behind the screen, but from the rough guess I would say its single 15” bass cab for LCR didn’t get a shot of the HF but I would say its part of the package.

Not sure if the was sub because I did have peek under the black masking below and in front of the middle and saw no sub, unless its mounted on the stage behind the screen in-between the left and centre or right ad centre?

The surrounds liked like JBL 8330 thou the angle of the enclosure was different and it was very dark and the camera flash didn’t illuminate enough for a good view. I’ll try better on my next visit which maybe the new James Bond film opening in October I think?

All seating is rockers the best of the best for real true cinema comfort.

http://i301.photobucket.com/albums/nn73/EmpireLeicesterSquare3417/EmpireX-filesJBLTHXEmpire10.jpg

http://i301.photobucket.com/albums/nn73/EmpireLeicesterSquare3417/EmpireX-filesJBLTHXEmpire11.jpg

[JBL 4645]

http://i301.photobucket.com/albums/nn73/EmpireLeicesterSquare3417/EmpireX-filesJBLTHXEmpire12.jpg

http://i301.photobucket.com/albums/nn73/EmpireLeicesterSquare3417/EmpireX-filesJBLTHXEmpire13.jpg

http://i301.photobucket.com/albums/nn73/EmpireLeicesterSquare3417/EmpireX-filesJBLTHXEmpire14.jpg

http://i301.photobucket.com/albums/nn73/EmpireLeicesterSquare3417/EmpireX-filesJBLTHXEmpire15.jpg

http://i301.photobucket.com/albums/nn73/EmpireLeicesterSquare3417/EmpireX-filesJBLTHXEmpire16.jpg

The chap here pictured with his back to the camera I had a little chat with him. He was from Sweden and I asked if they had anything like this over his county. “No not of this size” I guess from looking at the picture before I spoke with him, he was just gob-smacked because he was just looking it over, I’m sure hi jaw was on the floor somewhere? LOL

http://i301.photobucket.com/albums/nn73/EmpireLeicesterSquare3417/EmpireX-filesJBLTHXEmpire17.jpg

Seat “23” front and centre is mine!!!!

http://i301.photobucket.com/albums/nn73/EmpireLeicesterSquare3417/EmpireX-filesJBLTHXEmpire18.jpg

http://i301.photobucket.com/albums/nn73/EmpireLeicesterSquare3417/EmpireX-filesJBLTHXEmpire19.jpg

http://i301.photobucket.com/albums/nn73/EmpireLeicesterSquare3417/EmpireX-filesJBLTHXEmpire20.jpg

http://i301.photobucket.com/albums/nn73/EmpireLeicesterSquare3417/EmpireX-filesJBLTHXEmpire21.jpg

Also after the screening of X-Files I want to Believe there was crowed of girls outside in the foyer that have just come out of private screening of the X-files and that is what puzzled me? I think they each paid £17 pounds while I paid £10pounds and saw it on the largest and loudest THX screen the whole of Europe, but they where quite happy and pleased with the screening. There was slight auctioning of an X-Files I what to Believe cinema promotion board that went for, £150 pounds!

The bidding started at £5pounds and then I placed a bid of £20 pounds and that was it for me, because the biding whet up and up and up, £150pounds, wtf! LOL

[JBL 4645]

LOL I guess there the Scully (Gillian Anderson) fans!:D

http://i301.photobucket.com/albums/nn73/EmpireLeicesterSquare3417/EmpireX-filesJBLTHXEmpire22.jpg

http://i301.photobucket.com/albums/nn73/EmpireLeicesterSquare3417/EmpireX-filesJBLTHXEmpire23.jpg

http://i301.photobucket.com/albums/nn73/EmpireLeicesterSquare3417/EmpireX-filesJBLTHXEmpire24.jpg

http://i301.photobucket.com/albums/nn73/EmpireLeicesterSquare3417/EmpireX-filesJBLTHXEmpire25.jpg

The bidding was conducted outside over in Leicester Square common, this where you can sit and think or conduct bidding sessions, :D on an X-Files movie promotion cardboard board, £150pounds, lord knows how that girl was going to get that thing home it stood up at nearly 5 feet 7”!

http://i301.photobucket.com/albums/nn73/EmpireLeicesterSquare3417/EmpireX-filesJBLTHXEmpire26.jpg

[JBL 4645]

I almost and completely forget about the THX trailer that played before The X-Files I want to Believe called “Amazing Life” you can watch and listen to it at the THX website. This belted out a heck of deep wallop of low end on the 16 JBL 4645C that shuddered the floor. That was first THX trailer I’ve seen at Empire since around (1995) Time Cop dts six-track. The pervious trips didn’t have a THX trailer and it was pleasing to see a THX trailer back up on Empire’s screen!

http://www.thx.com/cinema/trailers.html (http://www.thx.com/cinema/trailers.html)

The trailer’s low end was almost on par with what felt with Transformers last year. This showed just how the JBL custom arrays sound and before that all, started there was BBC advertisement that was the (Chris Moyles show) that was set with dark image as radio has no images and it was sound effects feast in Dolby SR-D that showed again how sound effects pan from left and right or right and left or all around it was crazy wild day at the Empire, highly, most definitely highly recommended best THX screen around!:applaud:

[JBL 4645]

I almost left out a few more pictures of the Empire. Its like a lunar trip its not a routine trip I take each week the cost is £20.00 pounds travailing and admission is £10.00 plus underground £5.00 and refreshments so its around £45.00 and that is huge amount of money.

Plus a new dedicated thread coming soon tonight because I got a peek at the other cinema across the road and it’s not the one you’re thinking of?



http://i301.photobucket.com/albums/nn73/EmpireLeicesterSquare3417/EmpireX-filesJBLTHXEmpire30.jpg


http://i301.photobucket.com/albums/nn73/EmpireLeicesterSquare3417/EmpireX-filesJBLTHXEmpire27.jpg

http://i301.photobucket.com/albums/nn73/EmpireLeicesterSquare3417/EmpireX-filesJBLTHXEmpire28.jpg

http://i301.photobucket.com/albums/nn73/EmpireLeicesterSquare3417/EmpireX-filesJBLTHXEmpire29.jpg

http://i301.photobucket.com/albums/nn73/EmpireLeicesterSquare3417/EmpireX-filesJBLTHXEmpire31.jpg

[JBL 4645]

Though secondary searching I found this remarkable panoramic digital image taken from the back of Empire screen 1. Surrounds can be clearly seen along the sidewalls and the screen goes a bit wider than the image shown here, looks more like 1.85:1 W/S.

I’m thinking about getting a new digital camera in the affordable price range because I’m not made of money. LOL :D

http://i301.photobucket.com/albums/nn73/EmpireLeicesterSquare3417/EmpireLeicesterSquarescreenwide.jpg

[JBL 4645]

This is new addition to the Empire Cinema site (click on for fall 360° view) of Empire Leicester Square screen 1.

http://www.empirecinemas.co.uk/ (http://www.empirecinemas.co.uk/)

[JBL 4645]

Empire Leicester square The X-Files I want to Believe
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-MryNc1vZ_k (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-MryNc1vZ_k)

Empire screen 1 auditorium neon lights
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XN9mTodTPog (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XN9mTodTPog)

Empire Leicester square The X-Files I want to Believe 1
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kNuLmKqzcfY (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kNuLmKqzcfY)

[JBL 4645]

The Empire Strikes Back - With Driverack

http://www.ukslc.org/index2.php?option=com_content&do_pdf=1&id=879 (http://www.ukslc.org/index2.php?option=com_content&do_pdf=1&id=879)

http://www.etnow.com/news/2006/8/empire-cinemas-choose-harman-group-for-flagship-refit

[JBL 4645]

Though secondary research I’ve found some more rare images of the Empire Leicester Square saved the images and edited them down. I like the way the cinema looked back around 1983 interesting how its gone though slight cosmetic change over the years.


http://i279.photobucket.com/albums/kk123/IndianaJones34/EmpireLeicesterSquare1980.jpg

http://i279.photobucket.com/albums/kk123/IndianaJones34/EmpireLeicesterSquare19801.jpg

http://i279.photobucket.com/albums/kk123/IndianaJones34/EmpireLeicesterSquare19802.jpg

http://i279.photobucket.com/albums/kk123/IndianaJones34/EmpireLeicesterSquare19803.jpg

[hjames]

The 1982 exterior picture ... shows an office building next door that kind of looks - run down. Is this place in an aging neighborhood?
Is it a rough neighborhood at night?
We've lost some older "grand theatres" in DC as the city went through tough times in older neighborhoods and fewer people wanted to go to what seemed like scary areas of the city.
Even though the city has cleaned up nicely in more recent years, some of those older grand theatres couldn't stay in business and are now gone.

Even some of the suburban Maryland theatres just outside DC where I grew up are now closed and repurposed ...
Like The Allen Theatre and The Langley and The Flower Ave theatre.
http://www.flickr.com/photos/maincourse/page7/

http://cinematreasures.org/theater/767/

All have since been closed and the buildings repurposed now ...

I actually worked at the Flower Theatre in 1970 (Woodstock, Dirty Harry, A Clockwork Orange, lost of memories). Last time I was at the Allen we saw Predator (1987), last time at the Langley was the first Star Trek movie.

None of them had the upgraded sound gear and we started going to the better theatres in the area for major releases. Like the Uptown Theatre, which is still in business
http://www.flickr.com/photos/maincourse/2194771555/
I had a friend and we used to go there for the 70mm print festivals
(Lawrence, Patton, Outlands, Starwarts, etc) or other major release (Dances with Wolves, Independance Day, etc)
Like you, its a bit of a pain to head into the city and make a day of seeing a film, so we don't get there as much as we used to.

And frankly, there just aren't as many "big films" as there used to be in the 60s and 70s - not everything warrants such a big screen with dolby, etc ...

[JBL 4645]

LOL Leicester Square a rough neighbourhood :D you’ve got to be kidding its safe as houses even during the night. Sure it has a few down and outs poor buggers, but its quite peaceful most times.

I like the art deco look with the exterior of the cinema.

Cinema Treasures is cool site to reflect on grand cinema past and present.

[hjames]

I agree, I like the art deco look of old theatres too!
But I like the 1989 facade better than the 1982 version -
I'm assuming that shows they've restored the original front,
probably the original style,
rather than the billboard look that appears to be slapped over the front in the 1982 shot.

Yeah - based on the wikipedia acticle, it appears it predates film, going back to April 1884
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Empire,_Leicester_Square

Ah - but the ORIGINAL (seen in the postcard image) was destroyed and a new version rebuilt in its place in 1927,
with seating for 3000! Yeah, the article also says it was updated in 1961 as a 1330 seat palace and "The 1928 façade was retained but remained hidden for many years by a full building boarding advertising both the film and Mecca Dancing, at the Mecca Ballroom, constructed in the stalls of the second Empire theatre, this has remained in use as a separate dance hall, discotheque and nightclub."

Anyway, in the picture "ET at the empire 1982"
it sure looks like a rough office building to the left - wires running crazy across the front,
windows taped or ajar, concrete stained and funky ...
based what you can see in that picture, run down neighbourhood would be my description.


LOL Leicester Square a rough neighbourhood :D
you’ve got to be kidding its safe as houses even during the night.

Cinema Treasures is cool site to reflect on grand cinema past and present.

[JBL 4645]

I agree, I like the art deco look of old theatres too!
Anyway, in the picture "ET at the empire 1982"
it sure looks like a rough office building to the left - wires running crazy across the front,
windows taped or ajar, concrete stained and funky ...
based what you can see in that picture, run down neighbourhood would be my description.

LOL those aren’t wires that the tree branches from Leicester Square common. Heather I think a trip to specsavers may help.:D

I’m only guessing this was part of the refurbishment of the cinema at a cost of £5million so I heard.

[JBL 4645]

Looks like you’ve been doing some Google and editing :D I’ve seen that picture before. Before my time back around the days of Queen Victoria. Of course back then it was single house I think there is an architecture plan of the Empire.

[JBL 4645]

I believe this link shows a bit more history of the theatre.
http://www.arthurlloyd.co.uk/Archive/May2004/index.htm (http://www.arthurlloyd.co.uk/Archive/May2004/index.htm)

http://www.arthurlloyd.co.uk/Archive/May2004/Page1.htm (http://www.arthurlloyd.co.uk/Archive/May2004/Page1.htm)

http://www.arthurlloyd.co.uk/Archive/May2004/Page2.htm (http://www.arthurlloyd.co.uk/Archive/May2004/Page2.htm)

http://www.arthurlloyd.co.uk/Archive/May2004/Page3.htm (http://www.arthurlloyd.co.uk/Archive/May2004/Page3.htm)

http://www.arthurlloyd.co.uk/Archive/May2004/Page4.htm (http://www.arthurlloyd.co.uk/Archive/May2004/Page4.htm)

http://www.arthurlloyd.co.uk/Archive/May2004/Page5.htm (http://www.arthurlloyd.co.uk/Archive/May2004/Page5.htm)

Wow this place has really transformed!
http://www.arthurlloyd.co.uk/Archive/May2004/Page6.htm (http://www.arthurlloyd.co.uk/Archive/May2004/Page6.htm)

http://www.arthurlloyd.co.uk/Archive/May2004/Page7.htm (http://www.arthurlloyd.co.uk/Archive/May2004/Page7.htm)

http://www.arthurlloyd.co.uk/Archive/May2004/Page8.htm (http://www.arthurlloyd.co.uk/Archive/May2004/Page8.htm)

[hjames]

Nah - definately TMI - Too Much Information - I'm not THAT interested -

Honestly, I doubt if many folks here are THAT interested in a grand old Theatre in London
... casual interest at best, and for me thats well been satiated.

But - you have a nice weekend!

I believe this link shows a bit more history of the theatre.

tmi

Wow this place has really transformed!

tmi

[JBL 4645]

Nah - definately TMI - Too Much Information - I'm not THAT interested -

Honestly, I doubt if many folks here are THAT interested in a grand old Theatre in London
... casual interest at best, and for me thats well been satiated.

But - you have a nice weekend!

LOL yeah you too have nice weekend.:) So who’s the other person viewing the page, hmmm [rubbing chin] I wonder.:D

[JBL 4645]

Well I’ve just got it from the hoarses mouth the chaps at Bell Theatre Services UK one of the one most respected UK cinema installers that did the installation. The sub bass system at the Empire Leicester Square is discrete for all digital formats Dolby SR-D dts SDDS8 and analogue 70mm magnetic.

Optical formats like analogue Dolby (A and SR type) is diverted to the sub bass with a simple push of the button on the Dolby CP200 analogue to the Dolby CP650 digital. I knew it but I had to ask.

[JBL 4645]

Found some additional pictures of the Empire Leicester Square with some early pictures of Empire 3 that is located upstairs.


http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2385/2105830722_df4bd509e4.jpg?v=0

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2117/2105828666_b9402119f3.jpg?v=0

Empire Leicester Square 1948
http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2219/2105019205_dac0d8fc6c.jpg?v=0

September 1984
http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2352/2105793676_43b649b578.jpg?v=0
January 1985
http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2418/2105011457_2b3277b724.jpg?v=0

March 1986
http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2214/2105794860_4a9ba93e6e.jpg?v=0
May 1984
http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2115/2105020303_06c69bcd08.jpg?v=0
October 1984
http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2228/2105804200_47b78f89b9.jpg?v=0
1986
http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2060/2105805994_19d96a5cab.jpg?v=0
August 1988
http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2419/2105807410_4467f9280e.jpg?v=0

[JBL 4645]

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2321/2105810206_98f73c815e.jpg?v=0

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2043/2105812234_8105cb4a7e.jpg?v=0
1st June 1986
http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2363/2105035479_84f045bc01.jpg?v=0

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2303/2105037121_3f6c9728bd.jpg?v=0

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2102/2105817336_94a43e9465.jpg?v=0

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2310/2105819354_de88f96b62.jpg?v=0

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2038/2105822748_64857fe31e.jpg?v=0

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2156/2105045845_8f53ff145f.jpg?v=0

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2238/2105047799_d52e62aaf0.jpg?v=0

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2300/2105827764_4d38def5e6.jpg?v=0

[JBL 4645]

Looks like someone else beside me also saw Transformers in 56KW THX sound system and was cheeky to take a picture while the film was playing naughty, naughty.:D



http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1015/950132736_8867525d73.jpg?v=0

http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1190/949288335_05b3eb6f68.jpg?v=0

[JBL 4645]

http://filmonic.com/wp-content/uploads/2008/07/qos_teaser2.jpg

Quote from View London.co.uk
“Quatum of Solace premiere at Leicester Square on Wednesday 29th October promises a night of thrills and spills for all Bond fans, with a star studded red carpet and even the chance to glimpse royalty. Whilst you won't be able to get in to see the film, get there early and queue up along the red carpet to see loads of celebrities.”

http://www.viewlondon.co.uk/whatson/...VenueSiteStats (http://www.viewlondon.co.uk/whatson/quantum-of-solace-premiere-article-7370.html?utm_source=FeatureVenueSiteStats&utm_medium=internal&utm_campaign=FeatureVenueSiteStats)

After reading quote above I’ll wait till October 31st to find out which cinema it will playing at from Friday October 31st as this might end up playing exclusively at Odeon Leicester Square, thou I’m hoping Empire Leicester Square screen 1 naturally in THX. If so I’ll pop up early November.

[JBL 4645]

I was doing some searching relating to something other a technical issue at home when I stumbled onto the Crown site and saw these interesting but simple diagrams for cinema professional.

http://www.crownaudio.com/apps_htm/apps-cinema.htm

http://www.crownaudio.com/images/apps/cinema01.gif

http://www.crownaudio.com/images/apps/cinema02.gif



http://www.crownaudio.com/images/apps/cinema03.gif

http://www.crownaudio.com/images/apps/cinema04.gif

http://www.crownaudio.com/images/apps/cinema05.gif

[JBL 4645]

I nearly tripped over this one while on the way out. Yeah I’d say the Empire, is securely back on the map with an untouchable sound! :applaud:

JBL and Crown combine to provide 56kW THX certified sound system at Empire Leicester Square.
http://www.soundtech.co.uk/cinema/news/empireleicestersquare

[JBL 4645]

Some more famous Empire Leicester Square, pictures that didn’t make it into the thread last year.

This is closer view of the The Spy Who Loved Me poster promoting the digital presentation, enough said on that.

http://i301.photobucket.com/albums/nn73/EmpireLeicesterSquare3417/EmpireLeicestersquareSunday20200-13.jpg

I like the colour of the poster you, know colour! Hmm would look nice on my wall, but I’m not into collecting posters anymore moved on.

[JBL 4645]

Another view of one many, many JBL 8340 THX surrounds this is the centre back surrounds, no one many of 8 placed on one row level then another 8 I believe. Empire has the power to sink a dozen basements, now then!

http://i301.photobucket.com/albums/nn73/EmpireLeicesterSquare3417/EmpireLeicestersquareSunday20200-12.jpg

This JBL 8340 is located below one of the many port hole windows. I think this angle is close to the far right hand side near projection booth.

[JBL 4645]

Oh, another view thou its hard to tell if this the same surround as there are so many located at the back, now then!

http://i301.photobucket.com/albums/nn73/EmpireLeicesterSquare3417/EmpireLeicestersquareSunday20200-11.jpg

No, no this JBL 8340 is located to the left hand side when facing the rear of the Empire or when looking forwards t would be on your right hand side, got that! This would be on the far right.

[JBL 4645]

Star Trek beaming into, The Empire Leicester Square, on Thursday May 7th 2009 goes beams into cinemas nationwide on Friday May 8th 2009

http://i279.photobucket.com/albums/kk123/IndianaJones34/StarTrekEmpireTHX56KWJBLsoundsystem.jpg

Star Trek Trailer 2 in Dolby stereo
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=piempRocOLI&feature=channel_page (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=piempRocOLI&feature=channel_page)

I’ll be beaming up on the coach May 7th early morning very early at, warp 10!:bouncy:

[JBL 4645]

Here’s a short silent video from the Empire Leicester Square, taken last year, when I went along to see The X-Files I Want to Believe (2008).

Empire computer sign Empire Leicester Square
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0ZzFUWzYJLE&feature=channel_page (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0ZzFUWzYJLE&feature=channel_page)

Saw these weirdoes dancing outside the Empire Leicester Square, in the square, last year. I don’t think the Empire will allow these freaks inside.

Anonymous freaks dancing outside the Empire Leicester Square
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YW0Ubqwd8_c&feature=channel_page (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YW0Ubqwd8_c&feature=channel_page)

[JBL 4645]

I didn’t realize how many pictures I took last year, while visiting the Empire Leicester Square.

From the looks of it looks like a JBL control 28, these where spread around the foyer.

http://i301.photobucket.com/albums/nn73/EmpireLeicesterSquare3417/EmpireLeicesterSquareJBLcontrol.jpg

[JBL 4645]

Night time view of the lighting system outside the Empire.

http://i301.photobucket.com/albums/nn73/EmpireLeicesterSquare3417/EmpireLeicesterSquarenighttime1.jpg

[JBL 4645]

Another view of the colourful lighting system

http://i301.photobucket.com/albums/nn73/EmpireLeicesterSquare3417/EmpireLeicesterSquarenighttime2.jpg

[JBL 4645]

And again another view I’d have to do video of this next-time, i only had limited space left on the camera for digital video, so I could only take still pictures.

http://i301.photobucket.com/albums/nn73/EmpireLeicesterSquare3417/EmpireLeicesterSquarenighttime3.jpg

[JBL 4645]

Empire screen 2 which is located downstairs has nice view from the back, the funky to easy neon-lighting I think it was neon, thou I’m sure Empire 3 has a rope light going around the screen placed behind the masking.

http://i301.photobucket.com/albums/nn73/EmpireLeicesterSquare3417/EmpireLeicesterSquarescreen2.jpg

[JBL 4645]

Again another view of Empire 2.This screen has columns placed along the side the right-hand side if I’m not too mistaken.

http://i301.photobucket.com/albums/nn73/EmpireLeicesterSquare3417/EmpireLeicesterSquarescreen22.jpg

[JBL 4645]

This looks or appears to be a double sized rocker seat thou I haven’t noticed any in Empire’s 1 2 3 or 5 maybe they have them in Empire 5 or maybe it was sent by mistake, ether way this was last year. I’ll have fuller look over Empire 4 and 5 around May.

http://i301.photobucket.com/albums/nn73/EmpireLeicesterSquare3417/EmpireLeicesterSquaredoublerocker2.jpg

[JBL 4645]

Closer view underneath the rocker seat

http://i301.photobucket.com/albums/nn73/EmpireLeicesterSquare3417/EmpireLeicesterSquaredoublerocker1.jpg

[Hoerninger]

... a double sized rocker seat thou I haven’t noticed any in Empire’s 1 2 3 or 5 ...

Perhaps you have to look into the last row - for the loving youngsters. :smsex:
____________
Peter ;)

[JBL 4645]

Perhaps you have to look into the last row - for the loving youngsters. :smsex:
____________
Peter ;)

:D

Well not in Empire 1 I didn’t notice those seats anywhere same with Empire 2, 3 and 5 maybe Empire 4 has them, maybe?

[JBL 4645]

Star Trek premier empire Leicester Square

http://partner.lastminute.com/lmn/ps...64361&CATID=22 (http://partner.lastminute.com/lmn/pso/catalog/Product.jhtml;sessionid=MOJUKSAAAAB0YCVIIJMCIIQ?PR ODID=781764361&CATID=22)

Well price, is yes price is yes £287.50 :blink: I think I’ll wait till May 7th and watch it three times for less of the price of £287.50, that would clean me out that would.



‘Star Trek’ Film Premiere - Empire Leicester Square - April 20, 2009



Star Trek at Empire, Leicester Square

Cast includes: Chris Pine, Winona Ryder, Eric Bana, Simon Pegg, Leonard Nimoy, Karl Urban and others...

The hospitality includes:

1 Bottle of Champagne between two and bar snacks/ nibbles will be available for guests at the Hampshire Hotel On Leicester Squar
Red Carpet Walk
Ticket to one of the two official premiere screens in the Empire cinema
Members of the Cast introduced to the audience before the film
Cast & Celebrities in attendance
**Please note that bookings must be booked in pairs**


Got any questions about your Days Out booking? Hopefully you will find the answer in our frequently asked questions section. <


Package price & availability

Hospitality tickets - £287.50 per person
Ticket delivery

Your tickets will be held for you to collect at the venue's box office one hour before the performance
Please remember to bring along the voucher from your confirmation email
Event information

Doors open, event starts at 18.45
Smart casual dress code
18 and above only
Venue information
Empire Leicester Square, Leicester Square, London, WC2H 7NA

Underground: Leicester Square.
Please contact the venue directly for information about disabled access.
Please note that for this event, we are acting as disclosed agent for a third party supplier.

[JBL 4645]

23 Days left now till the EMPIRE energizes the 56KW JBL THX sound system up for an almighty powerful Star Trek event. I have feeling this is going to be big for JBL THX cinema sound.:bouncy:

[Allanvh5150]

Its another installment from a long line of good movies. We had the premiere here in NZ last week! :)

Allan.

[JBL 4645]

Its another installment from a long line of good movies. We had the premiere here in NZ last week! :)

Allan.

Yeah I read about that. Turned out to be good one for the fans with appearance by Leonard “Spock” Nimoy.

[JBL 4645]

Videos from yesterdays EMPIRE Leicester Square, premiere of STAR TREK (2009) are now popping up on youtube!

.J. Abrams at the UK premiere of Star Trek (The movie 2009) London, Leicester Square
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=z-G2y-dsQ9w (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=z-G2y-dsQ9w)


Chris Pine (Captain James T. Kirk) at the Star Trek premiere
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1rV0Qc6TSfE (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1rV0Qc6TSfE)

Simon Pegg (Scotty) at the Star Trek premiere
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ffi55Vx-jgk (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ffi55Vx-jgk)

Zoe Saldana at Star Trek UK Premiere - London - Arrivals
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OFZ_6d4-es0 (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OFZ_6d4-es0)

John Cho at Star Trek UK Premiere - London - Arrivals
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KubI4V67NYQ (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KubI4V67NYQ)

Eric Bana at Star Trek UK Premiere - London - Arrivals
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hyTgjs8TStc (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hyTgjs8TStc)

Chris Pine at Star Trek UK Premiere - London - Arrivals
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TWbTH3vchd0 (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TWbTH3vchd0)

Zachary Quinto at Star Trek UK Premiere - London - Arrivals
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ez4DnhMQiAA (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ez4DnhMQiAA)


Only 15 Days now till STAR TREK opens at the EMPIRE Leicester Square JBL 56KW THX sound system, yippee!! :bouncy::bouncy::bouncy::bouncy:

[JBL 4645]

Found this on Google image under a few keywords. STAR TREK the motion picture 1979 at the EMPIRE 1979, this would have been around December as I seem to recall seeing at the local ABC screen 1 Bournemouth.

http://i301.photobucket.com/albums/nn73/EmpireLeicesterSquare3417/StarTrekthemotionpictureEMPIRE.jpg

[JBL 4645]

I got my coach ticket this morning :bouncy: and whew time will be pressing with a Victoria arrival at 11:05 and that leaves me exactly 40 minutes to get into Leicester Square by tube train. It shouldn’t be a problem as it only takes about 20 minutes between switching from two lines. I might arrive huffing and puffing at the EMPIRE.

7 ½ days to go now for the STAR TREK 56KW JBL THX experience!
:applaud::bouncy::banana::band::nutz:

[JBL 4645]

http://i301.photobucket.com/albums/nn73/EmpireLeicesterSquare3417/StarTrekEMPIREoutside1.jpg

http://i301.photobucket.com/albums/nn73/EmpireLeicesterSquare3417/StarTrekEMPIREfoyer.jpg

http://i301.photobucket.com/albums/nn73/EmpireLeicesterSquare3417/StarTrekEMPIREfoyer1.jpg

http://i301.photobucket.com/albums/nn73/EmpireLeicesterSquare3417/StarTrekEMPIREfoyer2.jpg

Arrived spot on with just an hour before the second showing! First showing of STAR TREK was around midnight same day.

I didn’t take as many as I expected as the Trekies seemed to have gone into some kind of habitation or where clocking there true appearance in casual dress which did seem a bit odd.

I’m not interested dressing up thou I did go fully clothed and not naked! It’s the original shows films that I like the most and this new one of course which turned out more than brilliant, in fact. Fantastically out of this world in six-track Dolby digital THX sound system.

Sat up front and centre as I said and the screen THX size is to die for in scope. Nice selection of Star Trek theme music that was playing over the JBL stage and surrounds while the neon lighting goes thou its usual changing of colour and mixing of random colours is always pleasing to see.

Got some video on phone camera I’m getting friend to help me load it up on Saturday as it’s a bit tricky, unlike my digital camera which is easy

The sound was reference quality throughout from start to finish. The opening made scene no, I’m not going to say. Bass and subwoofer track rumbled effortlessly without strain with lots and lots of slam and deep depth effects. Practically when Nero creates a black hole!

Warp speed sound effects came with fast snapping sharp attacks that jolted me in the rocker seat.

The Foley effects footsteps like when Nero leaps down to grab Kirk slammed me in the chest, larger then life it was. The phaser effects where very hot on the mid to high range had sonic believability I could feel the impacts on to bodies of Nero’s men or ricocheting off metal structures within his ship.

Surrounds was clear on most occasional effects that came in. Doors hissing on what sounded like centre back to me and few sidewall surround effects of the Enterprises interior. Oh and the ship herself looked awesome on the EMPIRE screen wow she is a beautifully ship.

Second viewing sat in the circle thou its not what I’d call upstairs as someone at box-office said. The floor sloops upwards and the upwards I’d hardly qualify it as upstairs, unlike Odeon Leicester Square which does have an upstairs or baloney that I won’t even bother with anymore.

Anyway enough of OLS screen 6 okay!

Sound was just as positive with hard hitting smooth effects in the middle thou a few db lower of course than the front. dialogue centre stage and effects and music of different blend was solid up front as it was in the middle. Nice and warm on Sarek played by (Ben Cross) Those JBL 4642 five-screen LF. Soft whispery dialogue speech with Spock and Uhura “I’m sorry” was crystal JBL THX clear!

Oh I forget to take a few pictures of up and coming EMPIRE 6 which is in the slow building contraction at the moment should be opened in six weeks.

I heard rumours that EMPIRE 3 is going to be modified. I think I was so overwhelmed with logical emotion LOL that I have forget to take the odd 1 hundred pictures. I apologize I’ll do better next time around which might be Terminator 4 with Terminating JBL 56KW THX!:p

SPL db was just, thou it was flipping hard to see the VU meter was near onto the 120dbc at the front. It was around 100dba for mid and highs and that’s from just 26 feet away from the screen!

I wasn’t paying any attention to the SPL db level in the middle (money spot) which is about 84 feet back from the screen.

[JBL 4645]

The first few seconds I kept the video phone away from the screen until the tabs closed then moved the video phone around while neon lighting changed colours and a little rambling. Music playing in the background set the tone for this STAR TREK event.

Distance about 25 meters to seat AA27 LOL.

I seriously forget my tape measure I’m really lousy with mathematics.:D

Empire Leicester Square STAR TREK JBL 56KW THX sound system MAy 7th 2009
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wGGdf...e=channel_page (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wGGdf0V9b1E&feature=channel_page)

The guys cleaning Empire 1 up priceless.

The management of the Empire Leicester Square is priceless.

Sorry about the video moving upside down and on its side and so forth LOL I’ll handle the camera better next time around.

Yeah its been right ole dogs dinner to load the video up. I had to buy a memory USB port thingy to load the micro memory card.

I thought the camera was widescreen and had it mostly on its side because the way it displayed on in the LCD. Well I now know its not widescreen and need to hold it upright in future!

The sound almost started to overload on the video phone LOL I wonder if I can take frequency waterfall not sure of the frequency spectrum of the video phone? I’d be surprised if it reached below 50Hz on the Samsung?

When asking the general manager Steve a question he sounded clearer to my ear, yet the video phone makes it bit distant, not sure of the sensitivity of device but its not bad not bad at all with such a tiny device, fascinating.

I have a few more videos I’ll load them up shortly.

[JBL 4645]

Leicester Square London May 7th 2009
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wK4V8Lu1rX4&feature=channel_page (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wK4V8Lu1rX4&feature=channel_page)

Walking though Leicester Square on May 7th 2009 after seeing STAR TREK on the worlds biggest THX sound system 56KW JBL!

I later stopped off at the VUE to catch Wolverine in THX sound system. The video phone ran out of space to record anymore videos so no video of the VUE inside, well maybe next time around.

[JBL 4645]

EMPIRE STAR TREK May7th 2009
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fJfYTxWxb-0&feature=channel_page (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fJfYTxWxb-0&feature=channel_page)

[JBL 4645]

EMPIRE STAR TREK night time May7th 2009
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hohrw-zTYB8&feature=channel_page (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hohrw-zTYB8&feature=channel_page)

[JBL 4645]

STAR TREK two week exclusive digital Dolby digital run, has finished and is now playing in EMPIRE 2 downstairs and EMPIRE 4 on the lobby floor level., no doubt in digital but, looks those have missed out on the56KW JBL THX experience.

http://www.empirecinemas.co.uk/index.php?tbx_site_id=5 (http://www.empirecinemas.co.uk/index.php?tbx_site_id=5)

Empire’s manger said it might go back in EMPIRE 1 THX depending on how the next few weeks turn out.

I doubt I’d able to make third viewing as I’m waiting to hopefully pop up for Terminator 4 in THX on June 3rd thou June 3rd seems unlikely at the time.

May be possible towards the end of its two week run around middle of June, depending on money?

[JBL 4645]

I’ve just read that Empire 1 installed Dolby 3D this May 26th so looks like its smarting up tenfold making cinema still the original medium.
http://investor.dolby.com/releasedetail.cfm?ReleaseID=385777 (http://investor.dolby.com/releasedetail.cfm?ReleaseID=385777)

Found this on Google image, lucky buggers are enjoying Dolby 3D at the Empire. :p

Note: the dual digital projection light in the far background.

http://img2.photographersdirect.com/img/26586/wm/pd2181951.jpg

STAR TREK is also still playing exclusive in screen 1 till June 3rd and then that it’s it. Terminator Salvation moves into screen 1 to terminator the audience in 56KW JBL THX.:D

[JBL 4645]

Current status of EMPIRE



Auditorium information for EMPIRE LEICESTER SQUARE.

Number of seats and the sound system in each screen:

Screen 1: THX – 56K Watt certified sound system.
1330 seats
8 Wheelchair Spaces

Screen 2:
349 seats
DDS

Screen 4: DIGITAL CINEMA
96 seats
2 Wheelchair Spaces

Screen 5: DIGITAL CINEMA
48 seats

Screen 6: DIGITAL CINEMA
26 seats

COMING SOON - SCREENS 7, 8 & 9.

Where does Empire keep finding these spots to build more auditoriums?
:applaud:

[JBL 4645]

Found this rare picture of the JBL refit note the scaffolding on the two sides of Empire 1 large auditorium.

This would obviously be for the arrays of JBL 8340 surrounds. :bouncy:

[JBL 4645]

This year on September 13th thou not on a Wednesday as it would be Sunday, makes the 20th year since attending this one of kind grand showcase cinema in London’s West end Leicester Square.

Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade in 70mm JBL THX sound system was my first true taste of what JBL had to offer in terms of excellence in fine pedigree cinematic performance that wasn’t heard anywhere else in the UK or at least out the many other cinemas I’ve visited Empire went beyond the norm of presentation.

Each show was accompanied with (laser light show) that was as dazzling as one would expected.

The seating was comfortable all-around the entire auditorium. No expense was speared even the interior neon lighting that flows smoothly though the multiples of colours made Empire a really choice cinema to be at. Even the lighting above the screen twinkle down like stars was so effective.

[JBL 4645]

Yes folks it’s your ole favourites like Woody (Tom Hanks) and Buzz-Lightyear (Tim Allen) back up on the BIG screen now in the wonderful delights of three-dimension.

Starts on (Friday 2nd October 2009) at the Empire Leicester Square London screen #1 via the 56KW JBL THX digital experience!

I’ll see if its possible to travel up for the one day seems very tempering as I haven’t seen Dolby 3D yet and this film I’ve seen many times on THX laserdisc.

[JBL 4645]

Got my couch ticket for Friday and I’m off to Empire Leicester Square! The ultimate JBL 56KW THX Dolby 3D experience! :bouncy: Home theatre in basement is just a Toy when compared to the Empire, now then!

Toy Story 3D
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=p-euE6-D_A8 (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=p-euE6-D_A8)

This will mark my 16th film or (15th in JBL THX) as Gladiator doesn’t count it was Martin Audio and the THX was as you know was uninstalled around late 1999. Until it was fully reinstalled back to wicked out of this world JBL in 2006!

This will be an impressive Dolby 3D THX experience. I’ll get some pictures of the day and some short video and some SPL db readings as well.

Hmm, now let me see now. I saw Star Trek VI The Undiscovered County three time in THX! And Star Trek XI twice in THX! So that’s 18 times I’ve been JBL THX’d at Empire! :D

[JBL 4645]

Well what I can say about today presentation of Toy Story….

It was awesome!

The main part of the feature started with 6 minute trailer for the upcoming new (Jim Carrey) flick, “A Christmas Carol” that was presented in Dolby 3D.

The Dolby 3D was jaw dropping I wasn’t expecting to it jump off the screen which had me reaching out for some of the objects.

The 3D glasses had green for left-eye and redish like pinkish colour for the right-eye. A bit heavier than Real D glasses which are different bread of 3D glasses. The Dolby 3D glasses are around £15.00 each crazy price, but well worth it.

They do lower brightness the 3D glasses and even with the real world its like tinted coloured sunglasses. The only downside for the 3D glasses is that the eye sees (peripheral vision) so I can see the frame on the sides of my eyes and it was annoying because its in the way of the onscreen action.

Maybe they can improve on it in the future. Or maybe 3D contact-lenses that way there won’t be any distraction.

The colours were rocked steady vibrantly rich which makes my THX laserdisc of Toy Story, seem like a primate dinosaur.

The sound was loud and clear similar to the THX laserdisc soft sounds easy to hear ambient wind breezy sounds felt like being there. Split-surrounds whooshed and moved around the auditorium that had me turning my head when Sid was laughing on the rear while being off-screen as Woody/Buzz and others look on in sheer terror.

The LFE.1 sub bass track scared the living daylights, out of me and this is suppose too be kiddies film LOL.

When T-Rex makes his appearance he really, really scared me! The petrol station where truck pulls up, driven overhead Woody and Buzz was very impressive realistic deep on the sub as well as the surrounds the low humming engine sound.

The finally with Woody/Buzz escaping from Sid’s home and getting back to Andy had me on the edge of the seat with the (Randy Newman) score orchestration by Don Davis of the Matrix was beating away nicely.

Some SPL db readings hit 115dbc and I found out later that the house fader was at 6 as it wasn’t full for the first afternoon showing since it’s a Friday. Maybe around evening time it will start to get a bit crowded and the level goes up to 7.

[JBL 4645]

The management was pleased to see as this is my 20th year visit as well as having permission to see the other new Empire screens that are now up and running. Screens 6, 7, 8 and 9 along with 5 and 6 which are all digital!

[JBL 4645]

I really lost count of which screen was which but all screens are fully outfitted with JBL!

I could just barely make out the model behind each screen that was incredibly tight due to the design of the new digital plush delicious auditoriums that are also fitted with plumb plush red rocker seats.

JBL 3678 sounded neat from well respected name. There height which was most odd as they seemed to be only 5 ½ to 6 feet to the top of the HF horn. Normally they’d be like 7 or 8 feet up but the screens height is very narrow but not as narrow as my room.

http://www.jblpro.com/catalog/General/Product.aspx?PId=72&MId=1 (http://www.jblpro.com/catalog/General/Product.aspx?PId=72&MId=1)

They were mostly playing (non sync music) when I was touring around each screen. The LCR and surrounds where fully active normally in the old days it was just left and right fronts playing.

The surrounds for the smaller screens is unknown! They are hidden behind the panelling that conceals them but not from my ears.

I think the screen fronts where passing into the passive crossover rather than actively divided with electronic frequency divider network.

Note the panelling on the sidewalls that is where the surrounds are housed a neat way to because who wants to see the surrounds same goes for screen speakers which is why they are located behind the screen to follow the onscreen action.

I couldn’t care to guess what model they have as they have some many new models now. Could be 8340 8350 8320?
http://www.jblpro.com/catalog/General/ProductFamily.aspx?FId=34&MId=1 (http://www.jblpro.com/catalog/General/ProductFamily.aspx?FId=34&MId=1)

[JBL 4645]

Behind the screen JBL 3678

Sorry for the naff picture as it was very tight to even peek behind it’s that tight! I had to stick the camera and guess where to aim it? LOL

[JBL 4645]

Christie digital projectors located in odd way that is slightly ahead of the projection booth due to odd nature of the auditorium I’m guessing.

Another shot of behind the screen still very tight. I’d say that to remove the stage speakers the screen would have to be undone partly and flipped up to make any minor repairs to blown drivers thou I’d say its going to be very unlikely for many years.

[JBL 4645]

Well besides being a clam cool day of 18° there is always one mad man that wants to try and spoil it for everyone else!

Yes there was bomb alert threat in Leicester Square yesterday!:( I was inside the cinemas foyer talking to the staff when a telephone call came in that the square had been barricaded off while the bobbies check the square for an explosive device.

This was around 10:50am till around 11:30am? Everything returned back to normal with shops and cinemas open after it was given the all clear.

Hope they catch the little bugger.:biting:

Well I can management at Empire is very nice as I had some of their Empire tea as the drink machine concessions wasn’t working or tills that is, Mmm, nice Empire Tetley tea. Isn’t it grand being British.:D

Got a short video on the digital camera, that’s the camera that doesn’t have the sound! I’ll upload it on youtube later on as I have over nearly 200 pictures and videos! Yes I went overboard on the picture taking yesterday to make up from last May 7th where I took very few pictures.

[JBL 4645]

This level is where Empire 3 used to be LOL I was thinking it had make-over!? That was when one of the work crew who was doing some finishing up on the upstairs said (no this was where Empire 3 used to be all stud walls new cinema).

They have lift for disabled very thoughtful as it’s a very default stairway, so everything was well planed and executed to precision its very posh looking that keeps into the tradition of the downstairs foyer.

All the new screens have micro perforated screens due to the distance from the screen.

[JBL 4645]

Its really like a labyrinth walking around Empire and with a 10th screen coming soon I wonder if they’d have enough room for themselves as offices wave goodbye and cinemas take over in their place.

Again surrounds are hidden out of site but now that the cats out of the bag you know where they are.

I rather like the picture frame style vice chic looking.


The absorption material gives a nice fast decay on echo nicely done. I’d like to catch a film like Star Trek in digital but had very little money only enough for one showing yesterday.

I think Star Trek is ether in Empire 4 or 5?

[JBL 4645]

Some more behind the screen shots with JBL! Don’t know what screen number this is? It could be screen 6? :D I’ll know when I get around to editing the other pictures.

There is also single 18” sub bass in each of the smaller screens. I think this is JBL model 3635 as it’s very shallow behind the screen and the 3635 fits the profile as it’s a taller sleek sub bass model.
http://www.jblpro.com/catalog/General/Product.aspx?PId=70&MId=1 (http://www.jblpro.com/catalog/General/Product.aspx?PId=70&MId=1)

It’s located to the off from the stage left channel or placed between left and centre channel.

[JBL 4645]

More behind the screen with JBL!

Note the motor for the masking aspect ratio change in the lower part behind the screen with JBL located behind the framing.

Note the extra wide lover rocker seat I mean what else can it be?:D

[JBL 4645]

More behind the screen with JBL!

The scary old man was outside Empire 9:D

[JBL 4645]

Closer shot thou it doesn’t reveal much the surrounds are well hidden well maybe not from a bight light as the fabric has to be acoustically transparent to allow high frequencies to pass though. So a bright light might show some rough idea what model is behind it.

Empire 6 right at the end of the main foyer with Empire 1 on the right side!

[JBL 4645]

Empire 6 is the smallest screen I think its less than 30 seats I’d have to get the seating plans off the website for Empire Leicester Square.

I tried out the seating and its nice and comfy there is nothing like a real cinema seat. Now then!:p

[JBL 4645]

More seating of Empire 6 I’m sure this is Empire 6 as this was the last screen I had a look at.

I didn’t go downstairs to Empire 2 not sure if it’s had slight makeover I know what it looks like from last years quick peek.

Anyway I’m going to take a vintage intermission now to energize my batteries has I haven’t had any sleep in 30 hours!:snore:

I’ll post some new ones of Empire, screen #1 in short while.

[JBL 4645]

Wow, I think I had 12 hours kip! I feel like the Energized Bunny now. :bouncy:

This shot of the computer screen outside on the Empire shows what’s currently showing now.

Cardboard promotional material for, Disney’s upcoming digital animation “Up2” starts in a few weeks.

[JBL 4645]

Okay back to Empire 1 as this has to be the most impressive looking sounding cinema. I just like the fabric material threading on the seats really nice craftsmanship.

I took these pictures after Toy Story finished. I must have had the Empire 1, all to myself for 25 minutes before the next show started.

The Dolby 3D glasses that, I placed on the rocker seat.

Looks like they, fixed that squeaky seat at the front seat # A24 it had a bit a squeak back around May this year.:D

Thou I moved over to seat #A23, as it was, just that bit on top of the centre channel!

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Still the neon lighting system never fails to impress me. It’s a really fancy way of showcasing this grand cinema.
:applaud:

I tried for different photo angle like pointing the camera at steep vertical angle to give you different perspective.

I’m almost certain the bass sound travels though the sidewalls as I placed my hand on the walls. I could feel the lows from the surrounds. Maybe into the flooring for that extra surround feeling!:bouncy:

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Too bad the camera flash can’t expose the Empire with clearer view its only good for short narrow captures with the flash. The lighting was a bit brighter with the naked eye but still it’s just barely viewable.

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Closer view of the rear JBL 8340. The upper rear wall curves around over the projection box area

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The left side surrounds.

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This is soft like white fabric that has some JBL possible 8340 behind it thou I did spoke have brief talk with chief projectionist on the site in the foyer. He wasn’t too sure? Maybe wasn’t on site when the speakers where installed on the lower rear wall that is located underneath the projection box. Or maybe just doesn’t know of the model numbers?

I counted at least 8 instead of original 6 8330 that was slightly visible in the original JBL design. The surrounds where all active playing non-sync and it was easy to pin point them walking along the rear.

Total 42 surrounds.

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A bit of somewhat dark picture the flash on my camera is pants.:(
But I can make out the shape with the neon lighting.:D

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It’s like looking into the abyss with this pants camera flash! :D It must have eaten 2 AA batteries up within 20 or so flash pictures before I had to replace new batteries.

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Another wide front shot view a bit dark I think the flash must have been running low?

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The acoustical diffusers that are placed all around the Empire screen 1.

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Another steep view angle of the JBL surrounds and the acoustical diffusers with colourful neon blue.

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I like all the neon colours even this pinkish colour looks tasty enough to eat.:D

Going to have a slight intermission break for a moment and cover some other pictures of the day China Town.

Back after the break!

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Narrow angle view of the neon lighting system placed in the walls some three sets of coloured neon, lights that’s roughly what I counted?

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View looking across to the left-hand-side of Empire 1 this about mid way back in the auditorium.

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A view looking up the stairs in the circle part of Empire 1

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Doors leading out off Empire 1.

Set the auto timing for pose being itching to do this for a while.:D

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I really went overboard on the picture taking I lost count how many pictures I took?:D

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The tiling which I find most fascinating it’s two panels one rough the other coated with a special acoustical paint.

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Left hand side of Empire looking up at the JBL 8340 surrounds

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Another neon lighting shot a bit hot on the colours I was too close and slightly out of focus as well.

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I would have liked too taken a few more shots of the stage area nice how it curves upwards.

The lighting fixed into the sidewall panels beam light onto the screens tabs.

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Closer view of the lights thou a bit overexposed due to the cameras disability to handle bright light.

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Another shot of the Empire

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Another view of the neon lighting curving around Empire’s ceiling

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There seems to be limited space for wheelchairs but I can say I’ve only seen one wheelchair space being used in all the years that I’ve attended Empire 1.

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St Trinian's World Premiere at the Empire Leicester Square 10th December 2009. Does anyone have length of rope?:barf:

St Trinian's World Premiere
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UhxhVnpjL6A&feature=related (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UhxhVnpjL6A&feature=related)

I always disliked these lame girl films even the originals that were show on TV back in the1970’s.:barf:

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Avatar World Premiere held at London’s Empire Leicester Square Theatre
http://www.digitalcinemareport.com/node/1456 (http://www.digitalcinemareport.com/node/1456)

:xmas::tree:

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Found some new pictures of Empire screen 1. This is different to the way it looked a few years ago with the new Barco for the Dolby 3D.

Looks like some major subtle modification with larger air cooling to suck that tremendous heat out of the lamp house. Cooling water bottles for the lamp house system.

Not sure if I lost count looks like four Barco projectors, whew that’s a lot of money!

I trust they still have the Philips DP70 in the booth.;) Least that was where it was standing the last time I saw it, where the Barco digital projectors are now. Thou in the far background that may look like it hard to tell?