Low-power FM transmitters provided the audio for films presented at drive-in theaters. Patrons tuned their car radios to a designated frequency to hear the movie’s soundtrack and dialogue. This system allowed for an immersive audio experience within the privacy of one’s vehicle.
This technology was essential to the drive-in movie experience. It offered a cost-effective solution for sound distribution compared to large, outdoor speaker systems, and it minimized noise pollution for surrounding communities. Historically, this method was integral to the popularity and success of drive-in theaters during their heyday. The dedicated frequency minimized interference and provided a clear, consistent audio signal directly to viewers. This created a personalized and intimate cinematic experience, distinguishing drive-ins from traditional indoor theaters.