Transformations in Western Electric’s Horn Speakers from 1928 to 1937


Exhibition Room 5 showcases American theater audio systems from the 1930s, beginning with the Horn 15 behind you, produced in 1928.


Horn 16, made in 1930, is also on display hanging from the ceiling opposite Horn 15.


Large horn-type speakers like these were prevalent until the mid-1930s. However, by 1936, they were gradually replaced by the Mirrophonic system, which you can see displayed on your right.


While Horn 15 was crafted by bending plywood boards, Horn 16 was constructed with plates.


Horn 16 was typically installed in small theaters with shallow depth and narrow gaps between the screen and the back wall. 


After listening to some music, we will proceed next to Exhibition Room 6.