With its imposing Art Deco exterior, the Pathe Tuschinski in Amsterdam is The
Netherlands’ most prestigious cinema. Inside it has been restored to its original 1920s
glory, while at the same time being extended and modernised to satisfy the expectations
of 21st century filmgoers. The latest phase has included the installation of a bespoke
Alcons Audio system, featuring the unique CRA72cst and the first installation of the
company’s new Sentinel 4-channel digital amplified loudspeaker controllers.
Regularly used for “red carpet’ premieres, the Pathe Tuschinski’s 740-capacity main
auditorium gives audiences the opportunity to watch films in luxury. Private boxes and
“love seats’ are a feature, while wine and food can be ordered for at-seat delivery. As
well as films, the room also hosts special events, concerts and weddings.
“Due to the high profile of being the Netherlands most prestigious auditorium, the
complexity and challenges created by the its unique acoustics and the many available
options, Pathe chose to have an outside organisation advise them of what the best
option would be,’ says Matthew Jones, general manager of Dcinex, the Liege-based pan-
European cinema solutions company.
“We advised using Alcons, based on our positive experience with both the company and
its systems. In due course, having looked at all of the available options, Pathe also
ended up recommending Alcons as the best solution themselves.’
Difficulties presented by the installation included needing a main system and subs with a
maximum depth of only 30cm/12′, but which could deliver the highest quality audio over
45Hz-20kHz for the mid/highs, with the subs down to 25Hz. Another was the
considerable height of the auditorium, which features two balconies, in combination with
the difficult acoustics; Being a listed building, no acoustical optimisations could be made,
yet excellent coverage control.
To meet these challenges, three units of CRA72cst were flown behind the screen. The
CRA72cst is a dedicated version of Alcons’ Cinemarray pro-ribbon line-source system
with a depth of just 285mm./11′ It features nine RBN401, proprietary four inch pro-
ribbon transducers for high frequency reproduction down to 1kHz., plus nine 6.5′ and six
12′ reflex-loaded loudspeakers for mid- and low frequencies. It is powered and
controlled by three Alcons Sentinel3 amplified loudspeaker controllers.
The screen system was completely developed within line-source acoustic parameters,
meaning maximum acoustic output, coherency and projection control was achieved.
The main system is complemented by six CB181sl 1x 18′ slim subs, stacked two wide
by three high, with one Sentinel10 4-channel amplified loudspeaker controller with
integrated processing. Surround sound comes from 26 CRS8 reference pro-ribbon
loudspeakers, powered by three more Sentinel3s.
The new CRS8 features a reflex-vented eight inch loudspeaker with Alcons’ multiple-
patented RBN401 four inch pro-ribbon driver. Using exactly the same component for
mid-high frequencies from 1kHz. upwards as the screen loudspeakers meant that a
perfect blend could be achieved between the main and surround systems. Meanwhile,
the proprietary-designed Sentinel3 delivers 4 x 750W of powerful, high-end audiophile
quality output.
The Sentinel ALC’s feature four-in/four-out AES3 192kHz digital inputs, enabling a
completely digital B-chain, for the highest possible audio reproduction quality.
“Custom-made to the auditorium’s needs, the Alcons system was the only one that could
deliver the high flexibility required in the available space, while at the same time
providing an unparalleled audio experience,’ says Matthew. “It is capable of delivering
the required SPL to even the highest seat in the top balcony, providing a great audio
experience no matter where your seat is. It also has the flexibility for the section of the
CRA72cst that’s aimed at the top balcony to be switched-off, when that balcony is not is
use.’
“We are very happy with the new sound system,’ adds Tuschinski’s Theatre Manager
David Hanemaayer. “It sounds great and is a big improvement over the previous
system. So much so that our visitors and suppliers have also noticed that we have a
new system’
“The entire system sounds stunning,’ concludes Matthew. “It is the perfect match for a
cinema as important, visually impressive and rich in history as the Pathe
Tuschinski.’
