Instantly recognizable to movie buffs and audiophiles, THX Deep Note is the iconic sound played before DVD/Blu-ray movies and on cinema theaters with the proper certification. For many of us, it was also the perfect way to test our brand new home theater equipment right away.
Now after 30 years, THX has "regenerated" Deep Note using modern technologies and mixing it in current cinema audio formats. Due to technology limitations of the time, the original piece is a four-channel recording that over the years was adapted up to a 5.1 mix.
The new THX Deep Note has been developed in three different lengths: 30, 45 and 60 seconds, all in stereo, 5.1, 7.1 and Atmos mixes. The sound remains instantly recognizable as was developed by digital audio engineer James A. Moorer, the same person who created the original audio trailer back in 1982. The new and original Deep Notes can be played below:
Deep Note debuted in the THX trailer Wings, screened before the 1983 premiere of Star Wars: Episode VI - Return of the Jedi. Since then, the 'THX Deep Note' has permeated the film industry to become one of the most iconic audio logos in the world.
"When I created the 'THX Deep Note' I wanted a big sound; I had no idea that sound would have such a big impact," says Andy Moorer. "I'm astonished by how widely-recognized the 'THX Deep Note' has become."