Live Venue View: Toshi’s Living Room, New York City
Style and sonics may match up well in studios, but they go together even better in live venues.
Both are in ample supply at Toshi’s Living Room, a versatile new destination in the Flatiron Hotel at 9 West 26th Street in New York City. Established by hotelier and party magnate Robert “Toshi” Chan, the space does more than just reflect his exuberant sensibilities – it shows he knows that a gathering is made even better by great live sound.
Expansive atmosphere and focused audio coexist.
Stars are welcome, but emerging artists also have an open invitation here. No matter who takes the stage, Toshi’s Living Room is clearly committed to a superior sonic experience, as evidenced not just by the elite gear manifest, but the careful thought that its namesake owner put into it. Here’s how Chan planned it:
Live Sound Objective
“The live sound achieved at Toshi’s depends on the genre of music, which varies from Cabaret to Jazz, Latin, Rock, R&B, Top 40, and Soul. We stay true to its essence, making it sound as if you were listening to the actual record. Also, we really focus on the band, as well as the crowd’s energy. It is a good match for the type of artist who will play at the club because it provides a warm welcome atmosphere where artists can truly express themselves, have fun and feel part of a family.”
Floor to ceiling coverage for the ears and eyes.
Gear to Get There
“The Allen & Heath mixer helps us to achieve these goals by allowing control of what comes out of the house monitors and stage monitors, accommodating both the band and crowd. I am particularly fond of the Lexicon mx400 effects processor because it acts as a sweetener – call it ear candy if you will. The sound of good music gravitates people towards the band.”
A Distinctive Venue
“It’s not just live music, it is the overall family experience that you receive when entering Toshi’s Living Room. The live music is a plus, as it gives artists an opportunity to showcase their talent to everyday working people who enjoy and appreciate something that is not typically offered anywhere else. Toshi’s live music takes place six days a week with two bands a day, along with good food, drinks, and a great crowd.”
Bright is beautiful — note the JBL speaker on the right.
System Set List
Analog 16 Channel Allen & Heath Mix wizard, 2 SM58 Wired Microphones, 3 Shure PGX Wireless Microphones, 3 Shure SM57 Microphones, 1 Shure Beta 52A, 4 DI Boxes various manufacturers, 2 QSC K12, 2 JBL SRX Series Speaker, Crown XLS 1000 Power Amplifier, DBX DriveRack Loud, Speaker Management/ Processing System, 1 DBX 31 Band EQ, DBX Dual 15 Band EQ, 2 -2 Channel Compressor/Gate/Limiter, Lexicon MX4000 Effects Processor, Furman Power Conditioner
Toshi’s door is open to on the rise artists, and positive vibes.
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