CinemaNext Netherlands has successfully completed a comprehensive cinema technology installation at Filmtheater Hilversum, delivering a complete turnkey solution that transforms the beloved 45-year-old venue into a state-of-the-art five-screen cinema complex, featuring cutting edge technology and premium seating solutions. The project, finalised comfortably ahead of the theatre's grand reopening on 4 November 2025, showcases CinemaNext's capability as a total solutions provider for the cinema industry.
The extensive renovation project encompasses far more than individual components - it represents a client-guided and fully integrated cinema ecosystem, designed to deliver exceptional viewing experiences across all five screening rooms. CinemaNext's role began with a detailed consultation with the client about their specific needs and requests, followed by a comprehensive systems and auditorium design, ensuring optimal acoustic performance and sight lines for each unique space within the historic building.
Premium Experience Solutions for Every Screen
Central to the transformation has been the installation of cutting-edge Barco laser projection systems throughout the venue. The deployment includes Barco SP2K-11 ICP-D projectors for the larger halls and SP2K-9 ICP-D units for the medium-sized screening rooms, each equipped with precisely matched lenses optimised for throw distances and screen dimensions. The projection systems come with extended 10-year warranty packages, demonstrating both the quality of the equipment and CinemaNext's commitment to a long-term partnership.
The digital backbone of the renovated cinema features Dolby IMS3000 cinema servers with external NAS storage packages, providing robust and reliable content management across all screens. Each server is paired with 4x4TB storage arrays, ensuring ample capacity for the diverse programming that has made Filmtheater Hilversum a cultural cornerstone of the media city. The infrastructure includes comprehensive network switching, uninterruptible power supplies, and CinemaNext's proprietary PAA20+ automation adapters, creating a resilient and efficient operational environment.
Immersive Audio Excellence with QSYS
Understanding that exceptional sound is crucial to match the laser projected excellence of the modern cinema experience, CinemaNext equipped the venue with a sophisticated QSYS control and audio system. The installation features QSC's premium speaker lineup, including SC-2150 three-way screen speakers, SB-2180 dual subwoofers, and multiple surround speaker configurations using SR-8200 and SR-800 models.
The audio infrastructure is powered by QSYS Core 510i network audio processors and CX-Q series amplifiers, delivering pristine sound reproduction across all frequency ranges. Each auditorium has been meticulously calibrated for both 5.1 and 7.1 surround sound configurations, ensuring that whether screening intimate arthouse films or spectacular blockbusters, the audio experience matches the visual excellence.
This installation extends the close working relationship that CinemaNext Netherlands has with QSYS in creating digital networks for audio and automation that enable cinemas to deliver a number of compelling experiences beyond just films, such as corporate and alternative uses of auditoriums, giving them greater flexibility.
Premium Screen and Seat Installations
CinemaNext tapped Harkness Screens to provide Matt Plus 100 mini-perforated screens for the new auditorums. The upper hall features an impressive 8.1m x 3.4m screen, while the lower hall boasts an even larger 8.7m x 3.5m display, both configured for the cinematic 2.39:1 aspect ratio.
The screen installations involved complex floating construction techniques with custom steel frameworks finished in matte black. These structures incorporate platforms for optimal front speaker placement and feature acoustic dampening materials on the rear walls. Access panels ensure maintenance can be performed without disrupting the clean aesthetic, while the frameworks are seamlessly integrated with the floor and side walls.
Complementing the technical infrastructure, CinemaNext supplied and installed premium seating throughout the renovated spaces. The carefully selected combination of 27 INFINITY Boutique Model Storm seats and 83 EZCARAY Bruselas theatre chairs provides diverse comfort options while maintaining the theatre's intimate atmosphere. The seating installation includes 16 Float side tables, allowing patrons to enjoy refreshments without compromising their viewing comfort.
Seamless Project Execution
The project's success stems from CinemaNext's attention to client’s needs and ability to manage all aspects of the installation as a single, coordinated effort. From project audit and initial auditorium design through to final system commissioning and staff training, the company's integrated approach ensured compatibillity between all components and minimised disruption to the theatre's operations.
"This project exemplifies CinemaNext's evolution as a complete cinema solutions provider," noted Matthew jones, General Manager BeNeLux CinemaNext. "Filmtheater Hilversum required not just equipment supply, but a partner who could design, integrate, and deliver a comprehensive cinema technology ecosystem. From projection and audio to screens and seating, every element has been carefully selected and configured to work in harmony." Commenting on behalf of Filmtheater Hilversum, the cinema’s Managing Director Christian Taal observed that, “Our partnership with CinemaNext has enabled us to combine cutting-edge technology with the warm, human atmosphere that defines Filmtheater Hilversum. Every detail - from projection and sound to the seating and design - serves our mission to make film culture accessible, inspiring, and immersive. The result is a cinema that feels both state-of-the-art and deeply personal.”
Supporting Cultural Excellence
The renovation, expansion and upgrade supports Filmtheater Hilversum's mission as a non-profit organisation dedicated to promoting film culture at the heart of its community. With its expanded capacity and enhanced technical capabilities, the theatre will be well-positioned to continue offering its diverse programming, including themed events, educational screenings, children's activities, and the annual Hilversum Film Festival, kicking off 4 November when the cinema re-launches.
The technical upgrade enables the theatre to screen content in multiple formats while maintaining the exceptional presentation standards that audiences expect. The QSYS control system provides centralised management of all audio-visual elements, simplifying operations for the theatre's eight permanent staff members and extensive volunteer team, with increased demands placed on modern cinema operations showing everything from European arthouse to immersiver concert events.
As Filmtheater Hilversum prepares to welcome audiences to its transformed venue, the complete technology package delivered by CinemaNext stands as testament to what can be achieved when technical expertise meets cultural vision. The integration of world-class projection, immersive audio, premium screens, and comfortable seating creates an environment where stories can truly connect people - continuing a proud cinematic tradition that has served the Hilversum community for nearly half a century and hopefully for at least another 45 years.
How CinemaNext Delivered a Complete Cinema Technology Package for Filmtheater Hilversum's Expansion