In-car audio devices attached to posts at drive-in theaters provided individual sound for patrons during the mid-20th century. Typically constructed of metal, these devices often featured a volume control and sometimes a rudimentary speaker selection switch for stereo sound. A small hanger allowed them to be hooked onto car windows.
These devices were essential for a complete drive-in theater experience. Before their widespread adoption, sound was delivered through large, centralized speakers, resulting in uneven audio quality across the theater. Individual units offered improved sound clarity and volume control, enhancing viewer immersion. This technology played a significant role in the popularity of drive-in theaters during their golden age. Their presence evokes a sense of nostalgia for that era and remains a key component of the drive-in’s unique charm.