Sony is unveiling a new 4K digital cinema projection system across Europe that builds on its proven technology in use by exhibitors, while offering new enhancements in performance and functionality.
Sony’s newest system features the SRX-R320 4K SXRD projector and LMT-300 Media Block. It incorporates similar features and design elements of its predecessor – the widely implemented SRX-R220 system. However, the new system measures approximately half the size and weight to give exhibitors more installation options.
“With an ongoing surge in 3D production since we introduced our first 4K cinema projection system 3 years ago, Sony is continually advancing technology to meet the evolving requirements for European exhibitors,” said Oliver Pasch, Head of Digital Cinema, Sony Professional. “This newest version continues that tradition and illustrates why European exhibitors of all sizes are making Sony 4K technology their projection choice. With extremely high resolution, outstanding security, and operational versatility, this new system is ideal for creating an immersive digital cinema experience – in 2D or 3D – on any screen.”
"The new system provides all three levels of image structure as specified by DCI for 2D and 3D projection including level 3 with 4096 x 2160 pixels established using SXRD technology that delivers a high contrast ratio of more than 2000:1 required for cinema projection."It is designed to be compatible with the same lamps and lenses used for the R220 system, which has been widely accepted across Europe after Hollywood Multiplex Operations (HMO) in Romania became the first European cinema to adopt 3D on 4K digital solution.
The SRX-R320 system is FIPS 140-2 compliant and its secure enclosure design allows the LMT-300 server to be seamlessly integrated into the projector’s chassis, providing a high level of security that meets the SPB-2 anti-tamper regulations stipulated by the Digital Cinema Initiatives (DCI). The projector also produces superb images that are compliant to DCI requirements for image parameters such as colour fidelity, white point and contrast.
A choice of six motorised lenses with memory function for both zoom and focus and selectable 4.2 kW, 3.0 kW, and 2.0 kW Xenon projector lamps from a variety of manufacturers allows for screen coverage of up to 20 meters (65 feet) – providing a SMPTE-standard brightness level of 14 ft-L on a wide screen. Using an optional anamorphic lens (LKRL-A001), screen coverage can be extended up to 21.4 meters (70 feet).
Using Sony’s 3D dual lens adaptor, the SRX-R320 projector can deliver crisp 3D images on screens up to 15 meters (50 feet, constant height / side-masked screen) in width at 4.5 ft-L brightness.
The lenses of the SRX-R320 have the capacity to reproduce resolutions higher than 4K, which is necessary to project 4K content exactly at 4K resolution. In addition, these lenses are designed to minimise chromatic aberrations.
The new system offers the optional STM-100 Theatre Management System software suite that allows theatre staff to efficiently manage multiple auditoriums from a central PC connected to a theatre’s LAN. The TMS technology can provide efficient centralised management for cinema complexes and is also prepared to adopt existing installations with SRX-R220 / LMT-200 systems.
The SRX-R320 4K projector and LMT-300 Media Block have been commercially available in Europe since November and have already been installed at several cinemas including CinemaxX AG in Germany and Apollo Cinemas Ltd. in the UK, the latter including three all-digital complexes featuring the STM-100 TMS-software suite and central storage solutions by Sony.
