Page 10 - RD_2006-12

PRINTECHNICALITIES Occasional notes about Prints

Because of the many different types of sound track
in use during the early years of sound film, it was
not unusual for sound level settings for the
projectionist to be printed on the leader of the film
– this example from Episode 12 of the 1939
Republic Serial was
supplied by David Donaldson.

The 16mm example shown would, have been
printed from an original 35mm theatrical release
print, and advises the operator to set his fader
control to 2 – 3 db (decibels) higher for this reel
than the ‘normal’ setting.

It’s a pity the practice is no longer used – many of
today’s cinema going patrons would be most
grateful for similar instructions advising an
adjustment of perhaps 10 db DOWN!