Case Study |
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Digital Media Systems supports Southampton Playhouse's Exhibition Capabilities
The refurbished cinema wins award for 2025 Best Classic Refurbishment.
By Gregg Paliotta
June 15th, 2025
Digital Media Systems engineered and commissioned premium laser projection systems throughout the Southampton Playhouse utilizing Christie RealLaser technology.
Cinema 2 and Cinema 3 were equipped with Christie CP4415 RGB 4K laser projectors, while Cinema 4 features a Christie CP4420 RGB 4K laser projection system. Together, these platforms deliver exceptional brightness, color accuracy, contrast performance, and long-term operational reliability. Dedicated Christie zoom lens packages and projection infrastructure were incorporated to optimize image performance for each auditorium s unique geometry and screen size.
Custom MDI Northview microperforated cinema screens with motorized masking systems were installed to provide presentation flexibility while maintaining exceptional image and audio performance. Screen sizes range up to nearly 30 feet in width, creating an immersive cinematic experience while preserving the character of the historic venue.
To complement the visual experience, Digital Media Systems designed and commissioned Dolby Atmos immersive audio systems throughout the primary auditoriums.
The systems utilize Dolby CP950A cinema processors, Dolby Atmos rendering technology, Dolby DMA-series network amplifiers, and extensive JBL Professional cinema loudspeaker arrays. The speaker systems include JBL 3732 screen channels, JBL 3739 screen loudspeakers, JBL SCS12 surround speakers, JBL 5628 cinema subwoofers, and JBL ASB series low-frequency systems. This combination delivers exceptional clarity, dynamic range, and precise object-based audio placement throughout each auditorium.
Digital Media Systems implemented a comprehensive content management and automation infrastructure designed to streamline operations across the entire facility.
The system includes Dolby IMS3000 media servers, Arts Alliance Media Theatre Management System (TMS) software, dedicated Dell server infrastructure, Netgear network storage, and centralized monitoring tools. This architecture enables efficient content distribution, scheduling, playback management, and operational oversight from a central location.
Recognizing that the Southampton Playhouse would serve as more than a traditional cinema, Digital Media Systems designed a professional-grade video production environment capable of supporting live events, filmmaker presentations, educational programming, panel discussions, and community engagement activities.
The facility includes networked Panasonic AW-UE100K PTZ cameras controlled through a Panasonic AW-RP150 camera controller, allowing operators to capture and distribute professional-quality video throughout the venue. A NewTek TriCaster Mini 4K production system, AJA routing infrastructure, and dedicated production workstations provide advanced switching, streaming, recording, and content creation capabilities.
Extron Control and AV Distribution
A facility-wide Extron control and signal distribution platform was deployed to unify the operation of cinema, presentation, and event technologies.
The system includes Extron TLP touchpanel controllers, XTP signal transport systems, CrossPoint matrix switching, and centralized AV routing infrastructure. This integrated control environment enables staff to manage projection, audio, video distribution, presentations, and event operations from intuitive touchscreen interfaces throughout the facility.
To support live presentations and guest appearances, Digital Media Systems integrated a comprehensive Shure ULX-D digital wireless microphone system.
The installation includes Shure ULXD4Q quad-channel receivers, ULXD/B58 handheld transmitters, wireless antenna distribution, charging systems, and rechargeable battery infrastructure. The result is dependable, broadcast-quality wireless audio capable of supporting lectures, Q&A sessions, live events, and community programming throughout the venue.
Supporting the entire operation is a robust network and systems backbone designed and integrated by Digital Media Systems.
The infrastructure includes enterprise-grade Netgear managed switching, fiber connectivity, Q-SYS audio networking, centralized equipment racks, custom fabrication, structured cabling, signal patching systems, and comprehensive documentation. The result is a highly scalable platform capable of supporting future growth while ensuring reliable day-to-day operation.
Beyond the auditoriums, Digital Media Systems designed and integrated a comprehensive digital signage and guest communication platform throughout the Southampton Playhouse.
The lobby, concession, circulation areas, green room, and public gathering spaces were outfitted with a network of professional LG commercial displays and specialty digital signage solutions designed to provide dynamic communication, event promotion, wayfinding, sponsor recognition, and guest information.
A centerpiece of the installation is a large-format Planar MGP 1.2 LED video wall, creating an impactful visual experience that serves as both a promotional and architectural focal point within the venue. The Planar direct-view LED system provides exceptional brightness, color accuracy, and flexibility, allowing the Playhouse to showcase movie trailers, upcoming events, sponsor content, community messaging, and custom visual presentations. The system was selected for its ability to create a premium visual experience while maintaining long-term reliability in a high-traffic public environment.
Content throughout the facility is managed through a network of BrightSign 4K media players, providing centralized control and scheduling of digital signage assets across multiple displays and locations. This platform enables staff to quickly update promotional materials, event information, donor recognition, and operational messaging while maintaining a consistent visual identity throughout the building.
The integrated digital signage ecosystem extends beyond traditional movie advertising. It supports film festivals, educational programming, live events, private rentals, fundraising initiatives, and community engagement activities, helping transform the Southampton Playhouse into a flexible cultural destination rather than simply a cinema.
By combining Planar LED technology, LG commercial displays, and BrightSign content management systems, Digital Media Systems created a modern communications infrastructure that enhances the guest experience from arrival through departure while providing venue operators with powerful and intuitive content management capabilities.
The Southampton Playhouse is far more than a restored movie theater. Through the integration of premium Christie RGB laser projection, Dolby Atmos immersive audio, professional production systems, networked camera technology, advanced AV control infrastructure, and enterprise-grade networking, Digital Media Systems helped create one of the most technologically sophisticated independent cinema and cultural arts venues in the United States.
Today, the Playhouse is capable of supporting first-run films, repertory screenings, film festivals, live broadcasts, filmmaker discussions, educational programming, corporate presentations, and community events from a single integrated technology platform.
| Want to learn more about the products mentioned in this case study? Call or email us at (212) 643-4000 or info@dmediainc.com |