Theater surround sound - Stadium seating vs. regular (1 Viewer)

[Bill Catherall]

Well, I wasn't sure which forum to put this one in, so I'm putting it here.

I've noticed recently that the surround sound just isn't as noticable in theaters that use stadium style seating. I really don't feel surrounded by sound and special effects don't seem to have much rear directionality. Is it because of the speaker array used in theaters? the high back chairs? the extreme slope and quick rise of the seating? Or is it just because all the theaters I go to are wimped out multi-plexes? I seem to remember hearing better surround effects in theaters that use regular seating arrangements, but it's been a while since I've been in one. It just seems that the front speakers aren't balanced well with the surround speakers. Also, one of the multi-plexes in my area claims to be THX certified (all the theaters boast THX signs) but I've never heard anything but either "painfully loud" or "terribly lacking" sound from the movies I've seen there.

What's been your experience? Is the benefit of being able to see over heads in front of you sacrificing good enveloping sound?

 

[Seth Paxton]

Good sound at a theater???

Keep looking DeLeon, that fountain is around here someplace. :bg:

Seriously I haven't noticed yet, but in Indy every theater sucks so it's impossible to tell. I'll get back to you after my next vacation.

 

[Michael Reuben]

Most of the theaters I attend feature stadium seating and high-backed seats, and the sound quality varies from very good to very poor. I don't think there's anything in the newer style of theater design that necessarily interferes with good sound. It's just a question of careful design and (most importantly) proper operation. The real problem with movie theaters isn't the design; it's the people who work there.

M.