1930s-1940s U.S. and Germany: The Titans of Cinema Sound


Exhibition Room 2 features sound systems from the 1930s and 1940s, focusing on two key products: 


the L series by the U.S.-based Western Electric Company and Eurodyn speakers by KlangFilm, a leading German manufacturer. 


The L series, displayed near the entrance of Exhibition Room 2, was produced by Western Electric to be used in small theaters. 


It became a cornerstone of American sound technology before the company was broken up due to U.S. antitrust laws in 1949. 


Shown opposite the L series are KlangFilm's Eurodyn speakers which attest to Germany's significant contributions to sound engineering. As you listen to the same piece of music through Western Electric's L9 model and Klangfilm's Eurodyn speakers, you may notice differences in sound quality in addition to their design. 


The contrasting political and social conditions of the U.S. and Germany during World War II had a profound impact on speaker sound quality and design. 


The United States was relatively untouched by the war. This resulted in speakers with a fixed form, not intended for easy transport.


On the other hand, Germany was deeply involved in the war effort and greater emphasis was placed on propaganda and mass communication.


German speakers, like those from KlangFilm, were designed with mobility in mind.


They consist of components such as woofers, speaker drivers, and networks, 


all compactly housed within a steel frame, allowing for easy transport.