Ster-Kinekor Makes Sound Investment in GDC Media Server & Audio Technology & CineAV Services
June 19, 2023
The Largest Movie Exhibitor on the African Continent Selects GDC’s Ultra-Reliable SR-1000 Integrated Media Block with Built-in Cinema Audio Processor and AIB-2000/AIB-2800
Barcelona, June 19, 2023 — GDC Technology Limited, (“GDC”) a leading global provider of digital cinema solutions, announced today Ster-Kinekor selected GDC’s SR-1000 Standalone Integrated Media Block™ with built-in cinema audio processor to upgrade its projection and sound systems to the latest digital cinema media server and audio technology. In addition, Ster-Kinekor will complete the upgrade with the Espedeo™ Audio Interface Box AIB-2000/AIB-2800, which is a digital-analog converter for cinemas to interface with cinema power amplifiers and SR-1000 IMB with built-in cinema audio processor. AIB-2000/AIB-2800 is also compatible with 8-channel AES, SPDIF, MIC, non-Sync, and analog 7.1, with front panel buttons or via Ethernet network commands. AIB-2000/AIB-2800 is easily controlled with media server automation commands.
To most South Africans, the word “movies” is synonymous with the name “Ster-Kinekor”, the largest cinema exhibitor in South Africa. With nearly a 60 percent market share in South Africa, Ster-Kinekor owns and operates 45 complexes with over 359 screens and 50,372 seats. Additionally, Ster-Kinekor operates 129 state-of-the-art 3D cinemas, giving Ster-Kinekor the largest 3D footprint in the territory, as well as six complexes in neighboring territories.
The Ster-Kinekor media server and sound upgrade strategy involves the replacement of legacy media servers with the SR-1000 IMB and AIB-2000/AIB-2800 interface box at existing sites and new construction projects in South Africa. The initial deployment involves over 100 media servers and will be facilitated by leading South African cinema integrator, Cine AV Services, which will also provide ongoing technical services for the duration of the deployment.
“Selecting GDC’s audio products was an easy choice after evaluating the products. Although GDC is best known for their media server products and customer service, we were impressed with the quality of the sound provided by their new audio products,” said Albert Ashker, chief operating officer for Ster-Kinekor Theatres. “Besides the quality and affordability of their audio products, GDC’s future roadmap to continually introduce high-quality audio products to improve the sound quality supported our decision.”
“Our SR Series media server with built-in audio technology will provide Ster-Kinekor with a reliable and affordable solution to greatly improve the guest’s listening experience”, said Adam MacDonald, European sales manager for GDC Digital Cinema Technology Europe, SL. “We value our partnership with Ster-Kinekor and look forward to working together to spread their mission to deliver the best possible moviegoing experience across South Africa.