[Search for users] [Overall Top Noters] [List of all Conferences] [Download this site]

Conference bookie::movies

Title:Movie Reviews and Discussion
Notice:Please do DIR/TITLE before starting a new topic on a movie!
Moderator:VAXCPU::michaudo.dec.com::tamara::eppes
Created:Thu Jan 28 1993
Last Modified:Thu Jun 05 1997
Last Successful Update:Fri Jun 06 1997
Number of topics:1249
Total number of notes:16012

310.0. "THX certified theaters in New England" by EPS::KUSEKOSKI (Maintain imperturbable equanimity) Tue Aug 24 1993 21:46

I've heard a lot about THX certified theaters and would like to see Jurrasic
Park in one around the greater Boston/NH area.  I found one in Chestnut Hill, but
it's showing The Fugitive (which I saw with Digital Surround Sound in CA -- close
enough).  I saw a spot on CNN that said there were a limited number of these 
in the US, but I can't remember whether it was 70 or 700.

Any other THX certified theaters in this area?  Having to buy another plane
ticket to San Jose makes it an expensive movie!

Thanks,
gk
T.RTitleUserPersonal
Name
DateLines
310.1Only one more...QUARRY::reevesJon Reeves, ULTRIX compiler groupTue Aug 24 1993 22:283
Well, two actually (if memory serves).  The only other THX theaters in
New England are at the new Braintree GCC theaters; I think two screens
there are THX, but you could call to find out for sure.
310.2I'm pretty sure that the General Cinema in Framingham MA at Shopper's World is equipped with THX11971::DOUCETTEMore Chuck for the buck!Wed Aug 25 1993 20:220
310.3BUSY::BUSY::SLABOUNTYTrouble with a capital 'T'Wed Jun 28 1995 15:195
    
    	Any updates on THX theaters in NE, especially MA/RI?
    
    	Thanks for any info.
    
310.4AIAG::WEISSMANWed Jun 28 1995 19:132
General Cinema in Burlington (across from the Burlington Mall) has 2 THX
theaters.
310.5to confirm .2APLVEW::DEBRIAEWed Jun 28 1995 19:254
    
    	The General Cinema complex in Framingham has one, currently showing
    	Batman Forever.
    
310.6Pls define, for the stereophonically unenlightenedMPGS::WOOLNERYour dinner is in the supermarketFri Jan 05 1996 17:309
    What *is* THX?  Is it a new technology, someone's brand name for
    existing technology, or what?  I thought theaters either had it or they
    didn't (Walt Disney World's theaters are all THX) but from the title
    of this note string it sounds more like a Good Housekeeping Seal of
    Approval than an actual gizmo.  Whaddya mean "certified"?!
    
    Thanks,
    Leslie, who understands the concept of "stereo" but has no idea what
    the different Dolby flavors are (my tape deck has 3 Dolby settings!!!)
310.7BUSY::SLABOUNTYNever Cry Fox, EitherFri Jan 05 1996 18:208
    
    	THX is a surround process developed by Steven Spielberg.
    
    	I believe Technics is the only authorized home audio company
    	that can [or does] use THX in their receiver[s].  [They might
    	only have 1 out right now, the THX-1010 or something like
    	that.]
    
310.8actually it was Tom Holman...DZIGN::HABERJeff Haber..SBS IM&T Consultant..223-5535Fri Jan 05 1996 20:3316
    Actually THX (which stands for Tom Holman eXperimental or something
    close to that) was developed under the auspices of George Lucas at
    Skywalker Ranch.  There was recently a whole segment on it on the
    Hometime PBS show.  Basically they developed some technology which they
    a) license to some manufacturers and b) certify at theatres (which have
    to be recertified annually!!!).  They have also recently branched out
    into certifying some home equipment.  They claim that they do it
    primarily for the good of the movie viewers (i.e.- it isn't a great
    moneymaker for them).  As a point of trivia, my wife says she knew Tom
    Holman slightly when he was in the Cambridge area designed stereo
    equipment.  If you use Altavista (or some lesser search engine) I hear
    (no pun intended ;^) that you can find out more about Holman and THX on
    the WWW.
    	
    	Regards,
    	/jeff
310.9BUSY::SLABOUNTYNever Say Never Again, AgainFri Jan 05 1996 20:393
    
    	Lucas, huh?  Why am I thinking Spielberg?
    
310.10BUSY::SLABOUNTYNever Say Never Again, AgainFri Jan 05 1996 21:11232
               Home THX Audio Systems: Questions and Answers

What is the Home THX Audio System?

The Home THX Audio System is the ultimate in sound for multi-channel home
entertainment systems. The system incorporates a series of patented
electronic and loudspeaker developments designed to reproduce all
multi-channel sources accurately in the home. The driving force behind the
creation of Home THX was the inability of conventional audio components to
accurately reproduce film soundtracks in the home environment as they were
originally created by the film makers. Two basic problem areas were
identified.

  1. A need to correct the audible tonal and spatial errors caused by the
     playback of sound tracks designed in and for large auditoriums in the
     closer environment of a home.

  2. A need to more accurately reproduce the complex and competing sound
     fields present in multichannel sound playback.

The Lucasfilm Home THX Audio System standard has a firm foundation in the
production processes associated with all feature film material.

What components comprise a Home THX Audio System?

To perform the job of translating a motion picture soundtrack accurately
into a home environment, three Home THX product groups must be employed.

  1. A Home THX Controller includes Dolby Pro-Logic circuitry and the
     necessary electronic enhancements (Re-equalization, Timbre Matching,
     and De-correlation) to successfully render the film sound experience
     designed for a theatre environment into a home.

  2. Home THX Loudspeakers Left, Center, Right, Left Surround, Right
     Surround, and Subwoofer loudspeakers are needed to reproduce the
     balance of clarity, localization, spaciousness, and timbre found in
     complex multi-channel sound-fields. The Front speakers contribute to
     proper tonal balance, intelligibility, and correct localization, while
     the Surround speakers provide good envelopment and a sense of
     spaciousness.

  3. Finally, appropriate amplification, suitable to the installation, is
     required. Home THX Amplifiers are built and tested to exacting
     specifications for distortion, noise, stability, and dynamic power
     required by multi-channel sound.

Other categories of Home THX Product include the THX Room Equalizer,
Acoustically Transparent Projection Screen, and Laser Disc Player.

The THX Room Equalizer is available to provide a means of correcting room
acoustic problems. While not absolutely necessary for performance, under
many conditions a Home THX Equalizer can significantly improve the in-room
frequency response and timbral accuracy of a system.

The THX Acoustically Transparent Projection Screen can be used as a part of
any system to achieve uncompromised sound-to-picture match by placing the
front speakers behind the screen.

THX Laser Disc Players are designed to perform to the highest audio and
video standards. Consumers can expect to see improved resolution, color
fidelity, better detail, and reduced noise when playing quality laser
discs. In addition, the audio performance of a THX Laser Disc player will
be in keeping with the highest standards set by the Home THX Audio Program.
This includes the ability to provide a direct output for multi-channel
digital audio, such as Dolby Laboratories' AC-3 based Dolby Surround
Digital system.

Does a movie have to be made in THX to be reproduced correctly by the
system?

No, THX is not a recording process or a film sound format. Movies are
typically made in either a matrixed surround format like Dolby Stereo,
mono, 70 mm Dolby Stereo, or one of the new digital formats such as Dolby
SR-D, DTS, or Sony SDDS. All motion pictures, including the over 5000 made
in matrix stereo, will be reproduced as they were heard in the film studio
dubbing stage through the Home THX System no matter what delivery system is
used.

Then, what is a THX Laser Disc?

This is a laser disc that has been produced within the context of the THX
Laser Disc Program. The sound format for the movie can be Mono, Dolby
Surround, UltraStereo, or any of the future digital multi-channel sound
systems. The THX team is involved in each phase of the manufacturing
process beginning with the selection of film elements for transfer through
the creation of masters and duplication of discs. Sophisticated calibration
and testing devices are utilized in conjunction with proprietary THX video
and audio test signals to maintain and objective reference throughout the
process. Each laser disc produced under the THX Laser Disc Program carries
the THX trademark and is fully compatible with all playback systems. The
Program's purpose is to ensure that the laser discs realize the full
potential of current video and audio technologies and formats.

Is Home THX compatible with the new digital film formats appearing?

The Home Audio System is uniquely suited to the new multi-channel discrete
digital audio formats appearing such as Dolby AC-3. Home THX Audio products
must all meet rigid performance criteria which include standards for
dynamic range, headroom, and signal-to-noise ratio designed around digital
delivery systems. In addition, the Home THX loudspeaker designs are
beneficial in resolving the complex sound fields the new formats will be
capable of producing.

Will Home THX Dipole Surrounds work with these 5.1 channel digital audio
delivery systems?

The ability of the dipole surround to create a diffuse surround sound field
in no way compromises their ability to achieve Left/Right surround
separation. With the newer "split surround" formats it is even more
important that surround cues and pans don't "collapse into a box".

What are THX Interconnect Products?

THX Interconnect Products are designed to ensure electrical and mechanical
compatibility of Home THX products in the marketplace. Specifications
include standards for multi-pin connectors, for color coding, as well as
for electrical and mechanical performance. The objectives are to provide
the market with a no-nonsense, reliable, efficient and high performance set
of line level and speaker interconnects.

Is the Home THX Audio System just for movies?

No, the System represents a very high level of performance for one or two
channel sources as well. Each company licensed by Lucasfilm Ltd. is
additionally able to put processing modes in their controllers for Music,
Music Videos, etc. The rigorous design criteria for Home THX Audio
Components assure you of state of the art audio reproduction. Since the
mixing environments for film and music are so different, a different
processing mode, other than the THX Cinema mode, should be selected when
listening to music.

Suggested modes are:

   * Music - Stereo, Bypass, Ambience, or proprietary DSP and Music Modes
   * Music Videos - Dolby Pro-Logic
   * TV Programs and Sporting Events - Dolby Pro-Logic
   * Movies on TV - THX Cinema
   * Movies on Hi-Fi Video Tapes or Laser Discs - THX Cinema

Why don't I hear sound coming from the surround speakers all of the time?

When sound is mixed for a movie, the sound designer uses the surround
channels to create an environment. It is only when they wish to "pan" a
sound into the surrounds, that you should be aware of the surround field.
Your attention remains focused on the screen until the director decides
that it's time to distract you. When you can continuously detect a surround
sound as separate from the front, you are hearing the failure of a surround
sound system to harmonize properly. The design goal achieved by the Home
THX Audio System was the seamless integration of the front and surround
sound fields. This enveloping sound field appears to be everywhere, rather
than localized in the surround speakers. It is the difference between sound
that surrounds you and surround sound in a box. Individuals desiring louder
surround effects can make a simple adjustment of the surround level on the
THX Controller.

What are some of the other benefits I can expect from the Home THX Audio
System over conventional surround sound systems?

  1. The sound will have a more natural tone. Many motion pictures
     reproduced through typical home audio systems will sound unnaturally
     bright.

  2. The dialogue will be more intelligible. In many movies, action effects
     can mask subtle dialogue. In the Home THX Audio System, the dialogue
     is heard distinctly, even in sequences with loud or complex sound
     effects.

  3. There will be a more uniform sound envelope. The front and surround
     sound-fields will merge, seamlessly putting you into the motion
     picture.

  4. Sound localization will be more accurate and focused. Sound follows
     the images on the screen, and the use of sound cues to provide a
     motivation for action will be more apparent.

  5. The system will reproduce all of the dynamic range and frequency
     response of a motion picture soundtrack without distortion or other
     artifacts.

  6. The system will effortlessly reproduce the bottom two octaves of bass,
     where the maximum energy of a movie resides.

All Home THX Audio Systems will share these traits.

Do buyers need to have rooms which conform to special parameters to install
a Home THX System?

No. Of course, attention to room acoustics, speaker placement, and correct
system calibration will assist in allowing the best audio presentation.
Because Home THX Loudspeakers are designed for multi-channel sound they
will peform better than conventional speakers when placed in less than
optimum locations. Room speaker placement or listening locations sensitive
to acoustic problems can benefit from the use of a Home THX Equalizer.

What is different in the new Home THX Integrated Amps and Receivers from
the Home THX Separates?

When separate component amplifiers are used in a Home Theatre system, the
assignment of each channel to a specific amplifier is difficult to predict.
Therefore, all Home THX separate amplifiers must be capable of handling the
highest power demand in the system; the subwoofer. This requires a minimum
power level of 100 wpc into 8 Ohms. With the channels of a THX Integrated
Amp or Receiver internally assigned, the per channel power can be a more
realistic 85 wpc for the LCR channels. Also, since the two surround
channels of a Dolby Stereo signal are designed to equal the output of a
single front channel, the per speaker surround channel power requirements
are -3 dB, or 1/2 that of the loudest channel. Hence, THX Integrated Amps
and Receivers must have a minimum of 50 wpc for each of the surround
speakers. THX Integrated Products must meet all of the remaining
requirements for the THX Controllers and THX Amplifiers.

What are the differences between the various price levels of other Home THX
Products?

While the THX Division assists in the development of licensed products and
thoroughly tests all aspects of performance against strict technical and
quality control standards, each manufacturer brings their own special
perspective and expertise to the design and construction of their products.
Some of the differences between products can be:

  1. the ability to play in very large rooms
  2. additional DSP sound processing modes
  3. exotic construction techniques and the use of more expensive parts or
     materials
  4. the amount of complexity in a system's design and construction.

The result is a wide variety of Home THX products from which to choose as
well as a commonality of purpose and design. What is certain is that all
Home THX products reflect the best multi-channel playback systems available
in their respective price ranges.

310.11BUSY::SLABOUNTYNever Say Never Again, AgainFri Jan 05 1996 21:121133
                     THX Product Database Search Result

Manufacturer: Adcom
Category: Controller
Model: GTP-700
Status: Planned
Special Notes:

Manufacturer: Adcom
Category: 5 Channel Amplifier
Model: GFA-7000
Status: Planned
Special Notes:

Manufacturer: Altec Lansing Consumer Products
Category: Surround Speaker
Model: AHT-2100
Status: Certified
Special Notes: On or In Wall Mounting

Manufacturer: Altec Lansing Consumer Products
Category: Powered Subwoofer
Model: AHT-2300
Status: Pending
Special Notes: 2 Required

Manufacturer: Altec Lansing Consumer Products
Category: LCR Speaker
Model: AHT-2200
Status: Pending
Special Notes:

Manufacturer: AMC Weltronics
Category: Controller
Model: AV81 THX
Status: Certified
Special Notes:

Manufacturer: Atlantic Technology
Category: Surround Speaker
Model: 354
Status: Certified
Special Notes:

Manufacturer: Atlantic Technology
Category: LCR Speaker
Model: 351
Status: Certified
Special Notes:

Manufacturer: Atlantic Technology
Category: LCR Speaker
Model: 353
Status: Certified
Special Notes: Horizontal Orientation

Manufacturer: Atlantic Technology
Category: Powered Subwoofer
Model: 352
Status: Certified
Special Notes: 2 Required

Manufacturer: Audio Design Associates
Category: Controller
Model: SSD 66 THX
Status: Certified
Special Notes:

Manufacturer: Audio Design Associates
Category: Controller
Model: Olympus 3
Status: Planned
Special Notes:

Manufacturer: Audio Design Associates
Category: Mono Amplifier
Model: BPA 500
Status: Certified
Special Notes:

Manufacturer: Audio Design Associates
Category: 5 Channel Amplifier
Model: MPA 500
Status: Certified
Special Notes:

Manufacturer: Audio Design Associates
Category: 6 Channel Amplifier
Model: PTM6150
Status: Certified
Special Notes:

Manufacturer: B&K Components
Category: 3 Channel Amplifier
Model: TX4430
Status: Certified
Special Notes:

Manufacturer: B&K Components
Category: Controller
Model: Controller
Status: Planned
Special Notes:

Manufacturer: B&W Loudspeakers
Category: Surround Speaker
Model: SCM 8
Status: Certified
Special Notes:

Manufacturer: B&W Loudspeakers
Category: LCR Speaker
Model: FCM 8
Status: Certified
Special Notes:

Manufacturer: B&W Loudspeakers
Category: Subwoofer
Model: PCS 8
Status: Certified
Special Notes: 2 Required

Manufacturer: B&W Loudspeakers
Category: Powered Subwoofer
Model: 800ASW
Status: Certified
Special Notes: 2 Required

Manufacturer: Boston Acoustics
Category: Surround Speaker
Model: 575x
Status: Certified
Special Notes:

Manufacturer: Boston Acoustics
Category: LCR Speaker
Model: 555x
Status: Certified
Special Notes:

Manufacturer: Boston Acoustics
Category: Subwoofer
Model: 595x
Status: Certified
Special Notes: 2 Required

Manufacturer: Bryston, Ltd.
Category: 2 Channel Amplifier
Model: 4B THX
Status: Certified
Special Notes:

Manufacturer: Bryston, Ltd.
Category: 2 Channel Amplifier
Model: 3B THX
Status: Certified
Special Notes:

Manufacturer: Bryston, Ltd.
Category: Mono Amplifier
Model: 7B THX
Status: Certified
Special Notes:

Manufacturer: Bryston, Ltd.
Category: 4 Channel Amplifier
Model: 8B THX
Status: Certified
Special Notes:

Manufacturer: Bryston, Ltd.
Category: 5 Channel Amplifier
Model: 5B THX
Status: Pending
Special Notes:

Manufacturer: Carver Corp.
Category: 2 Channel Amplifier
Model: TFM35
Status: Certified
Special Notes:

Manufacturer: Carver Corp.
Category: 6 Channel Amplifier
Model: AV-806x
Status: Certified
Special Notes:

Manufacturer: Carver Corp.
Category: 2 Channel Amplifier
Model: TFM-55x
Status: Certified
Special Notes:

Manufacturer: Carver Corp.
Category: 2 Channel Amplifier
Model: A-400x
Status: Certified
Special Notes:

Manufacturer: Counterpoint/Clearfield
Category: Surround Speaker
Model: Mystic
Status: Certified
Special Notes:

Manufacturer: Counterpoint/Clearfield
Category: 2 Channel Amplifier
Model: Solid 2
Status: Certified
Special Notes:

Manufacturer: Counterpoint/Clearfield
Category: Subwoofer
Model: Embassy II
Status: Certified
Special Notes: 2 Required

Manufacturer: Counterpoint/Clearfield
Category: 2 Channel Amplifier
Model: Solid 1E
Status: Pending
Special Notes:

Manufacturer: Counterpoint/Clearfield
Category: Mono Amplifier
Model: Solid 1M
Status: Planned
Special Notes:

Manufacturer: Denon
Category: AC-3 Controller
Model: AVP-8000
Status: Planned
Special Notes:

Manufacturer: Denon
Category: 2 Channel Amplifier
Model: POA-8200
Status: Planned
Special Notes:

Manufacturer: Denon
Category: 3 Channel Amplifier
Model: POA-8300
Status: Planned
Special Notes:

Manufacturer: Da-Lite Screen
Category: Acoustically Transparent Screen
Model: AS1000
Status: Certified
Special Notes:

Manufacturer: Energy Loudspeakers
Category: LCR Speaker
Model: LCR Front Speaker
Status: Planned
Special Notes:

Manufacturer: Energy Loudspeakers
Category: LCR Speaker
Model: LCR Horizontal
Status: Planned
Special Notes: Horizontal Orientation

Manufacturer: Energy Loudspeakers
Category: Surround Speaker
Model: Surround Speaker
Status: Planned
Special Notes:

Manufacturer: Fosgate Audionics
Category: Controller
Model: Model Three A
Status: Certified
Special Notes:

Manufacturer: Fosgate Audionics
Category: LCR Speaker
Model: MC 220
Status: Certified
Special Notes:

Manufacturer: Fosgate Audionics
Category: Surround Speaker
Model: SD 180
Status: Certified
Special Notes:

Manufacturer: Fosgate Audionics
Category: Subwoofer
Model: FS 400
Status: Certified
Special Notes: 2 Required

Manufacturer: Fosgate Audionics
Category: Surround Speaker
Model: SD 90
Status: Certified
Special Notes:

Manufacturer: Fosgate Audionics
Category: 4 Channel Amplifier
Model: Model 4200
Status: Certified
Special Notes:

Manufacturer: Fosgate Audionics
Category: Subwoofer
Model: CSS200
Status: Pending
Special Notes: 2 Required

Manufacturer: Fosgate Audionics
Category: Powered Subwoofer
Model: CPS200
Status: Planned
Special Notes: 2 Required

Manufacturer: Frox Inc.
Category: Controller
Model: Controller
Status: Certified
Special Notes: Discontinued

Manufacturer: Hafler
Category: 2 Channel Amplifier
Model: 9300tn
Status: Certified
Special Notes:

Manufacturer: Hafler
Category: 2 Channel Amplifier
Model: 9303
Status: Planned
Special Notes:

Manufacturer: Harman/Kardon
Category: Controller
Model: AVP-1
Status: Certified
Special Notes:

Manufacturer: Harman/Kardon
Category: 2 Channel Amplifier
Model: PA 2400
Status: Certified
Special Notes:

Manufacturer: Harman/Kardon
Category: Controller
Model: Citation 7.0
Status: Pending
Special Notes:

Manufacturer: Harman/Kardon
Category: 4 Channel Amplifier
Model: Citation 7.1
Status: Pending
Special Notes:

Manufacturer: Harman/Kardon
Category: LCR Speaker
Model: Citation 7.2
Status: Certified
Special Notes:

Manufacturer: Harman/Kardon
Category: Surround Speaker
Model: Citation 7.3
Status: Certified
Special Notes:

Manufacturer: Harman/Kardon
Category: Subwoofer
Model: Citation 7.4
Status: Pending
Special Notes: 2 Required

Manufacturer: Jamo
Category: LCR Speaker
Model: LCR One
Status: Certified
Special Notes:

Manufacturer: Jamo
Category: Surround Speaker
Model: Surround One
Status: Certified
Special Notes:

Manufacturer: Jamo
Category: Subwoofer
Model: Subwoofer One
Status: Certified
Special Notes: 2 Required

Manufacturer: JBL Consumer Products
Category: Controller
Model: Synthesis SP
Status: Certified
Special Notes:

Manufacturer: JBL Consumer Products
Category: LCR Speaker
Model: Synthesis S1 C
Status: Certified
Special Notes:

Manufacturer: JBL Consumer Products
Category: LCR Speaker
Model: Synthesis S1 M
Status: Certified
Special Notes:

Manufacturer: JBL Consumer Products
Category: Surround Speaker
Model: Synthesis S1 A
Status: Certified
Special Notes:

Manufacturer: JBL Consumer Products
Category: Subwoofer
Model: Synthesis S1 S
Status: Certified
Special Notes:

Manufacturer: JBL Consumer Products
Category: LCR Speaker
Model: Synthesis S2 C
Status: Certified
Special Notes:

Manufacturer: JBL Consumer Products
Category: LCR Speaker
Model: Synthesis S2 M
Status: Certified
Special Notes:

Manufacturer: JBL Consumer Products
Category: Surround Speaker
Model: Synthesis S2 A
Status: Certified
Special Notes:

Manufacturer: JBL Consumer Products
Category: Subwoofer
Model: Synthesis S2 S
Status: Certified
Special Notes:

Manufacturer: JBL Consumer Products
Category: Subwoofer
Model: Synthesis S3 S
Status: Certified
Special Notes: 2 Required

Manufacturer: JBL Consumer Products
Category: Surround Speaker
Model: Synthesis S2 A
Status: Certified
Special Notes:

Manufacturer: JBL Consumer Products
Category: LCR Speaker
Model: Synthesis S3 C
Status: Certified
Special Notes:

Manufacturer: JBL Consumer Products
Category: LCR Speaker
Model: Synthesis S3 M
Status: Certified
Special Notes:

Manufacturer: JBL Consumer Products
Category: 2 Channel Amplifier
Model: Synthesis S400
Status: Certified
Special Notes:

Manufacturer: JBL Consumer Products
Category: 5 Channel Amplifier
Model: Synthesis S650
Status: Certified
Special Notes:

Manufacturer: JBL Consumer Products
Category: LCR Speaker
Model: HT1F
Status: Certified
Special Notes:

Manufacturer: JBL Consumer Products
Category: Surround Speaker
Model: HT1D
Status: Certified
Special Notes:

Manufacturer: JBL Consumer Products
Category: Subwoofer
Model: HT1S
Status: Certified
Special Notes: 2 Required

Manufacturer: KEF
Category: LCR Speaker
Model: AV3
Status: Certified
Special Notes:

Manufacturer: KEF
Category: Surround Speaker
Model: AV2
Status: Certified
Special Notes:

Manufacturer: KEF
Category: Powered Subwoofer
Model: AV1
Status: Certified
Special Notes:

Manufacturer: Kenwood
Category: Controller
Model: KC-X1
Status: Certified
Special Notes: AM/FM Tuner Built In

Manufacturer: Kenwood
Category: 6 Channel Amplifier
Model: KM-X1
Status: Certified
Special Notes:

Manufacturer: Kenwood
Category: Subwoofer
Model: SW-X1
Status: Certified
Special Notes: 2 Required

Manufacturer: Kenwood
Category: LCR Speaker
Model: LS-X1F
Status: Certified
Special Notes:

Manufacturer: Kenwood
Category: Surround Speaker
Model: LS-X1S
Status: Certified
Special Notes:

Manufacturer: Kenwood
Category: Controller/5 Channel Amplifier
Model: KR-X1000
Status: Certified
Special Notes:

Manufacturer: Kenwood
Category: Mono Amplifier
Model: KM-X1000
Status: Certified
Special Notes:

Manufacturer: Kinergetics
Category: Controller
Model: KSP-2
Status: Certified
Special Notes:

Manufacturer: Kinergetics
Category: Powered Subwoofer
Model: SW-200V
Status: Certified
Special Notes:

Manufacturer: Kinergetics
Category: 2 Channel Amplifier
Model: KBA-280
Status: Certified
Special Notes:

Manufacturer: Kinergetics
Category: 3 Channel Amplifier
Model: KBA-380
Status: Pending
Special Notes:

Manufacturer: Kinergetics
Category: 2 Channel Amplifier
Model: C-200
Status: Certified
Special Notes:

Manufacturer: Kinergetics
Category: 3 Channel Amplifier
Model: C-300
Status: Certified
Special Notes:

Manufacturer: Kinergetics
Category: 5 Channel Amplifier
Model: C-500
Status: Pending
Special Notes:

Manufacturer: Kinergetics
Category: Controller
Model: C-800
Status: Pending
Special Notes:

Manufacturer: Klipsch
Category: LCR Speaker
Model: KT-LCR
Status: Certified
Special Notes:

Manufacturer: Klipsch
Category: Surround Speaker
Model: KT-DS
Status: Certified
Special Notes:

Manufacturer: Klipsch
Category: Powered Subwoofer
Model: KT-SW
Status: Certified
Special Notes:

Manufacturer: Krell
Category: Controller
Model: Controller
Status: Planned
Special Notes:

Manufacturer: Krell
Category: 5 Channel Amplifier
Model: KAV-500
Status: Pending
Special Notes:

Manufacturer: Lexicon
Category: Controller
Model: CP3/CP3+
Status: Certified
Special Notes:

Manufacturer: Madrigal
Category: Controller
Model: Proceed PAV
Status: Certified
Special Notes:

Manufacturer: Madrigal
Category: 2 Channel Amplifier
Model: Proceed AMP2
Status: Certified
Special Notes:

Manufacturer: Madrigal
Category: 3 Channel Amplifier
Model: Proceed AMP3
Status: Certified
Special Notes:

Manufacturer: Marantz
Category: 2 Channel Amplifier
Model: SM-80
Status: Certified
Special Notes:

Manufacturer: Marantz
Category: Mono Amplifier
Model: MA500
Status: Certified
Special Notes:

Manufacturer: Marantz
Category: Controller
Model: AV600
Status: Certified
Special Notes:

Manufacturer: McIntosh Laboratory
Category: Controller
Model: C39
Status: Certified
Special Notes:

Manufacturer: McIntosh Laboratory
Category: Controller
Model: MX130
Status: Certified
Special Notes: AM/FM Tuner Built In

Manufacturer: McIntosh Laboratory
Category: LCR Speaker
Model: HT-4
Status: Certified
Special Notes: Horizontal Orientation

Manufacturer: McIntosh Laboratory
Category: LCR Speaker
Model: HT-1
Status: Certified
Special Notes: Horizontal or Vertical Orientation

Manufacturer: McIntosh Laboratory
Category: Subwoofer
Model: HT-2
Status: Certified
Special Notes:

Manufacturer: McIntosh Laboratory
Category: 6 Channel Amplifier
Model: MC7106
Status: Certified
Special Notes:

Manufacturer: McIntosh Laboratory
Category: LCR Speaker
Model: SL-6
Status: Certified
Special Notes: Floor Standing Tower

Manufacturer: McIntosh Laboratory
Category: Surround Speaker
Model: HT-3
Status: Certified
Special Notes: On or In Wall Mounting

Manufacturer: Meridian
Category: Controller
Model: 565 Controller
Status: Certified
Special Notes: AC-3 Upgrade Planned

Manufacturer: Miller & Kreisel
Category: LCR Speaker
Model: S-5000THX
Status: Certified
Special Notes:

Manufacturer: Miller & Kreisel
Category: Powered Subwoofer
Model: MX-5000THX
Status: Certified
Special Notes:

Manufacturer: Miller & Kreisel
Category: Surround Speaker
Model: SS-500THX
Status: Certified
Special Notes:

Manufacturer: Miller & Kreisel
Category: Powered Subwoofer
Model: MX-150THX
Status: Certified
Special Notes:

Manufacturer: Miller & Kreisel
Category: Powered Subwoofer
Model: V-125
Status: Pending
Special Notes:

Manufacb>Special Notes:

Manufacturer: NAD Electronics
Category: 2 Channel Amplifier
Model: 208
Status: Certified
Special Notes:

Manufacturer: NAD Electronics
Category: 2 Channel Amplifier
Model: 216
Status: Certified
Special Notes:

Manufacturer: Nakamichi
Category: Controller
Model: Controller
Status: Planned
Special Notes:

Manufacturer: Onkyo
Category: Controller/5 Channel Amplifier
Model: TX-SV 919THX
Status: Certified
Special Notes:

Manufacturer: Onkyo
Category: LCR Speaker
Model: THXF-1
Status: Certified
Special Notes:

Manufacturer: Onkyo
Category: Surround Speaker
Model: THXS-1
Status: Certified
Special Notes:

Manufacturer: Onkyo
Category: Powered Subwoofer
Model: THXPS-1A
Status: Certified
Special Notes: 2 Active + 2 Passive Required

Manufacturer: Parasound
Category: 6 Channel Amplifier
Model: HCA-1206
Status: Certified
Special Notes:

Manufacturer: Parasound
Category: 2 Channel Amplifier
Model: 1200II
Status: Certified
Special Notes:

Manufacturer: Parasound
Category: Powered Subwoofer
Model: GMAS
Status: Certified
Special Notes:

Manufacturer: Parasound
Category: 2 Channel Amplifier
Model: HCA-1000
Status: Certified
Special Notes:

Manufacturer: Rane Corporation
Category: 4 Channel Equalizer
Model: THX44
Status: Certified
Special Notes: EQ for LCR & Subwoofers

Manufacturer: Rotel
Category: Mono Amplifier
Model: RMB 100
Status: Certified
Special Notes:

Manufacturer: Rotel
Category: 5 Channel Amplifier
Model: RB-985
Status: Certified
Special Notes:

Manufacturer: Rotel
Category: Controller
Model: RSP 980 BX
Status: Planned
Special Notes:

Manufacturer: Runco International
Category: Laser Disc Player
Model: LJR II
Status: Certified
Special Notes:

Manufacturer: Snell Multimedia
Category: LCR Speaker
Model: LCR 500
Status: Certified
Special Notes:

Manufacturer: Snell Multimedia
Category: Surround Speaker
Model: SUR 500
Status: Certified
Special Notes:

Manufacturer: Snell Multimedia
Category: Subwoofer
Model: SUB 550
Status: Certified
Special Notes: 2 Required

Manufacturer: Snell Multimedia
Category: LCR Speaker
Model: LCR 1800
Status: Certified
Special Notes:

Manufacturer: Snell Multimedia
Category: Subwoofer
Model: SUB 1800
Status: Certified
Special Notes:

Manufacturer: Snell Multimedia
Category: LCR Speaker
Model: LCR 800
Status: Certified
Special Notes: In Wall

Manufacturer: Snell Multimedia
Category: Subwoofer
Model: SUB 800
Status: Certified
Special Notes: In-Wall 2 Required

Manufacturer: Snell Multimedia
Category: Surround Speaker
Model: SUR 850
Status: Certified
Special Notes: In Wall

Manufacturer: Snell Multimedia
Category: Surround Speaker
Model: MC SUR 2800
Status: Certified
Special Notes: Floor Standing Tower

Manufacturer: Snell Multimedia
Category: LCR Speaker
Model: MC LCR 2800
Status: Certified
Special Notes: Horizontal/Matches MC Tower

Manufacturer: Snell Multimedia
Category: LCR Speaker
Model: MC Tower
Status: Certified
Special Notes: Floor Standing Tower

Manufacturer: Soundstream
Category: 2 Channel Amplifier
Model: DA-1 THX
Status: Certified
Special Notes:

Manufacturer: Soundstream
Category: 2 Channel Amplifier
Model: DA-2 THX
Status: Certified
Special Notes:

Manufacturer: Soundstream
Category: Controller
Model: C2
Status: Certified
Special Notes:

Manufacturer: Soundstream
Category: Mono Amplifier
Model: M1
Status: Certified
Special Notes:

Manufacturer: Soundstream
Category: 2 Channel Amplifier
Model: M2
Status: Pending
Special Notes:

Manufacturer: Soundstream
Category: 3 Channel Amplifier
Model: M3
Status: Pending
Special Notes:

Manufacturer: Soundstream
Category: Controller
Model: C-3
Status: Planned
Special Notes:

Manufacturer: Stewart Filmscreen
Category: Acoustically Transparent Screen
Model: Acoustically Transparent Screen
Status: Pending
Special Notes:

Manufacturer: Supravox
Category: Surround Speaker
Model: Surround 13
Status: Certified
Special Notes:

Manufacturer: Supravox
Category: LCR Speaker
Model: LCR 13
Status: Pending
Special Notes:

Manufacturer: Supravox
Category: Subwoofer
Model: Subwoofer
Status: Pending
Special Notes:

Manufacturer: Technics
Category: Controller
Model: SH-TX100
Status: Certified
Special Notes:

Manufacturer: Technics
Category: LCR Speaker
Model: SB-TF100
Status: Certified
Special Notes:

Manufacturer: Technics
Category: Surround Speaker
Model: SB-TS100
Status: Certified
Special Notes:

Manufacturer: Technics
Category: Subwoofer
Model: SB-TW100
Status: Certified
Special Notes:

Manufacturer: Technics
Category: Controller
Model: SH-TX200
Status: Certified
Special Notes:

Manufacturer: Technics
Category: LCR Speaker
Model: SB-TF200
Status: Certified
Special Notes:

Manufacturer: Technics
Category: Surround Speaker
Model: SB-TS200
Status: Certified
Special Notes:

Manufacturer: Technics
Category: Subwoofer
Model: SB-TW200
Status: Certified
Special Notes: 2 Required

Manufacturer: Technics
Category: Controller/5 Channel Amplifier
Model: SA-TX1000
Status: Certified
Special Notes:

Manufacturer: Technics
Category: Controller/5 Channel Amplifier
Model: SA-TX1010
Status: Certified
Special Notes:

Manufacturer: Triad
Category: LCR Speaker
Model: InWall Front Speakers
Status: Pending
Special Notes:

Manufacturer: Triad
Category: Surround Speaker
Model: InWall Surround Speakers
Status: Certified
Special Notes:

Manufacturer: Triad
Category: Subwoofer
Model: InWall Subwoofer
Status: Certified
Special Notes: 2 Required

Manufacturer: Triad
Category: LCR Speaker
Model: InRoom Gold LCR
Status: Certified
Special Notes:

Manufacturer: Velodyne
Category: Powered Subwoofer
Model: ULD 18 THX
Status: Certified
Special Notes:

Manufacturer: XLO
Category: Interconnect
Model: ER-4
Status: Certified
Special Notes:

Manufacturer: XLO
Category: Interconnect
Model: ER-5
Status: Certified
Special Notes:

Manufacturer: XLO
Category: Speaker Wire
Model: ER-11
Status: Certified
Special Notes:

Manufacturer: XLO
Category: Speaker Wire
Model: ER-12
Status: Certified
Special Notes:

Manufacturer: XLO
Category: Speaker Wire
Model: ER-13
Status: Certified
Special Notes:

Manufacturer: XLO
Category: Speaker Wire
Model: CDA 16/2
Status: Certified
Special Notes: 2 Conductor

Manufacturer: XLO
Category: Speaker Wire
Model: CDA 16/4
Status: Certified
Special Notes: 4 Conductor

310.12MPGS::WOOLNERYour dinner is in the supermarketMon Jan 08 1996 12:373
    Wow!  Thanks, Jeff and Shawn, for the speedy, "meaty" replies!
    
    Leslie
310.13SUBPAC::BROOMFIELDTue Jan 09 1996 15:5128
    
    	Re: .7
    
    	There are a number of other suppliers now who make home THX 
    	receivers.  Kenwood, Marantz and Onkyo as well as Technics.
    	In addition there are a number of other moocho-buck processors
    	made by Proceed, Fosgate and one that escapes my memory at the 
    	moment.  probably others too.
    
    	About speakers.  Almost all the THX speakers I've seen have a
    	vertical array of tweeters for the front and centre.  Centre is 
    	supposed to be mounted vertically.   This is said to be due to
    	the effect on vertical and horizontal dispersion of dialog if 
    	I remember correctly, possibly helping in localization in every
    	aspect.  Dipole speakers (described for the rear) are speakers 
    	with a tweeter and midrange cone pointing both forward and 
    	backwards (ie 2 of each pointing parallel to the side walls, not
    	towards you).  Also I believe that the midrange cones have their 
    	phase reversed.   
    	  The rear speakers, together with what a THX processor does to
    	the normal Pro-Logic signal, apparently help with creating a more
    	broad soundfield behind the audience.  The rear signal in Pro-logic
    	is mono, so no true directionality can be decoded.  Wait for AC-3
    	for that.
    	  Hope this helps too. I tried to fill in gaps from the last 
    	couple of replies with a rather broad brush.
    
    	Mike
310.14TP011::KENAHDo we have any peanut butter?Tue Jan 09 1996 16:109
    >Actually THX (which stands for Tom Holman eXperimental or something
    >close to that) was developed under the auspices of George Lucas at
    >Skywalker Ranch
    
    Sounds like reverse etymology -- THX1138 was the title of Lucas's
    first film, and THX1138 or a variant has in most of his films --
    it's a license plate in "American Graffiti" and a cell block in 
    "Star Wars."  I don't know why, but Lucas is fond of this alphanumeric
    combination.
310.15BUSY::SLABOUNTYDon't get even ... get odd!!Tue Jan 09 1996 16:434
    
    	I thought "American Graffiti" was a Spielberg film, which is why
    	I thought THX was developed by him.
    
310.16STUDENT FILM FIRSTGUMSHU::S_COLLINSSun Jun 23 1996 06:1219
    
    S_COLLINS
    
    THX WAS ALSO LUCAS' AWARDED WINNING STUDENT FILM WHEN HE WAS AT USC
    FILM SCHOOL.   
    
    SO IT WAS MADE TWICE.  ONCE IN SCHOOL. THEN AGAIN WHEN HE WAS AT THE
    BEGINING OF HIS PROFFESIONAL CAREER. 
    
                     ALSO      MANY PEOPLE CONFUSE  LUCAS AND SPEILBERG FOR
    EACH OTHER .      THEY ARE FROM THE SAME PACK OF FILM DIRECTORS THAT
    STARTED THEIR CAREERS AROUND THE SAME TIME.   
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
310.17Brand name extensionQUARRY::reevesJon Reeves, UNIX compiler groupWed Jul 24 1996 00:3325
The replies confuse a number of very different things that are all called
THX (much like there's now a lot of different software all called AltaVista).

THX Theatre Sound is what we started talking about; it's a combination of
theatre design/equipment specs, and annual recertification.  Certified theatres
in New England: MA: Braintree 5&6, Burlington 5&6, Chestnut Hill 1, Framingham
7&8; CT: Sono Regent 1,2,6,7; Trumbull Marquis 1,3-10; ME,NH,VT,RI: sorry.
The dubbing stage used to mix a film can also be certified under this program.

THX TAP (Theatre Alignment Program): a movie produced under this program
includes quality control on the prints, theatre evaluations, and an optional
phone and web site feedback program for projection problems encountered.
Current releases include Courage Under Fire and The Frighteners.

THX Home Theatre (what .10 to .13 refer to) is a set of components and
specs for home movie presentation.  It includes a special controller/decoder,
plus specs for amps and speakers (among other things).  It also involves a
training program for the dealers (10 in MA, 1 in NH, 1 in ME, 6 in CT).

THX Laser Discs: similar to THX TAP, it's an extra level of quality control on
laser disc mastering and manufacturing.  Given the number of bad LD masters in
the past, this is a useful seal-of-approval.

How much of each of these is genuine value and how much is mostly hype I 
leave for others to debate.  More details at http://www.thx.com
310.18I ran all the way homeEVMS::HALLYBFish have no concept of fireWed Jul 24 1996 11:505
> 7&8; CT: Sono Regent 1,2,6,7; Trumbull Marquis 1,3-10; ME,NH,VT,RI: sorry.
    								      ^^^^^
    Sorry you don't know, or sorry there aren't any?
    
      John
310.19Sorry there aren't any.QUARRY::reevesJon Reeves, UNIX compiler groupWed Jul 24 1996 14:530