I've seen a few DJ's here and it's always a vibe. It's a pretty small venue which is nice.

Had a great time here seeing Jody Wisternoff. Super intimate venue, good lighting and sound. Cheap drinks, good crowd, great experience! read more

I was a little iffy on going here due to the reviews but I decided to bring a friend along for a rave. The bouncers we're respectful. The size of the venue was decent, & the music was great. I think i'll be coming back. read more

Soundcheck - Music Venues Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

Great acts, great sound. Shoutout to Kenny for being welcoming and friendly. Guy is the greatest always see him doing great work. -John J Christmas We love you Kenny :) read more

By far the lamest club experience I've ever had. Everything was extremely overpriced with an entry fee of $35 per person and drinks $30-$40 a round. We arrived here at 11pm on a Saturday night and there were only 20ish people in a room that could easily hold at least 100.. the vibe was extremely off. We ended up leaving within the first 15 mins. Most definitely will not be coming back. Do ME a favor and go spend your money somewhere else; you'll have a much better time!! read more

I came here for a show. It was fine, but DC has way better clubs. I asked for two of their "cheapest" shots and received Bacardi for over $11 each. Despite this shock, I still tipped 20% (I work in the service industry, I get it.) Only after my receipt prints out am I informed that there was a $5 service fee added on top of my bill, which had not been visible on my bill until that point! This is how I ended up spending almost $40 on two shots here. Insane! I will not be returning, and if I ever have to, I'm definitely not tipping. read more

I arrived the venue and went straight for the bathroom. I was very excited to experience the venue for the first time. After coming out, the manager ruled me as too drunk to continue. I tried to reason with them and continued to walk out thinking that they would either give me a sobriety test or to give me a fair explanation. After seeing that there was no explanation we tried our best to talk to all the staff and requested revaluation since I was trying to explain to them that my first alcoholic beverage was a while ago and I will seem way drunker in appearance bc of my Asian glow and clumsiness. I waited to get outside so I could have a proper conversation with them to at least explain to them how they were making an abrupt decision without asking me questions to verify if I was drunk or not. The worker acknowledged that I did not seem too intoxicated/able to make conversations but was not able to make further decisions since it was not his call. It was our first time at this venue and honestly it ruined our entire first experience. Overall ambiance seemed ok. The space did seem a lot smaller than echo stage. read more

Redhead bartenders drink way too much for working, really slowed down the service, but the club is good otherwise

Shaked my ass all night and drank so much I almost blacked out whew this place is the spot to be I wear what ever the hell I want and get no judgement ! read more

I've been coming here for 3 years I went this past Saturday and they cut me off at the bar after 2 Bacardi lemonades will not be coming back again it's ridiculous if you plan on having a fun night and wanna have a few drinks I highly recommend any place but here Flash club is a beautiful club and they won't cut you off after 2 drinks read more

It is a nice location, music and performers/dj are great. Not sure why the female bartenders are dressed like strippers and the men are dressed normal. I want the men to match, too. We have gender neutral bathrooms in this day and age; let's apply these rules to the staff"s dress code as well. Specially that DC is a major gay friendly city. In hindsight no one should be objectified. read more

I've been coming here a few times and it keeps its original style of low key dance club. I prefer this place than It's sister Echostage where there is no space walk or even get drinks. It brings up-and-coming DJs as well as some popular ones. You will have more luck to score cheap tickets to this place on random nights even Fridays. The bartenders are sweet and lovely. They work hard. Give them some love for their hard work. For a club I don't have any negative reasons. -1 star for Avalon Saturday taking over Saturday. I'm cool with it btw. Good with drag shows but where is the good dance tracks? Parking? Street. Dress code? Casual. Cover charge? Depends on the event. It's a cool place to take your friends from out of town. read more

Definitely a fun spot for an intimate concert experience. I have been here a couple times for EDM-type performances. Some really great artists come through this spot. I saw Krewella and Vicetone. Much more low-key than EchoStage or the Anthem but totally fun in its own way. Specific takeaways: - Location: Very convenient, accessible by car, foot, taxi, metro-- right in the Dupont area. - Layout: Get super up close to the performers-- it almost feels like you are partying with the folks on stage. - Music: Great sound quality, both for live sets with instruments or electro mixes. There are less lights or lasers/visuals than other venues just because of the small space, but still a great environment for a show - Prices: Extremely affordable ticket prices - Wait: Almost no wait times-- they get folks in and out very quickly - Audience: FOr the concerts I attened, pretty young. Probably 21-35ish, with most people in their early 20s. People are a bit more chill than at Echostage, where there is a lot of pushing. There were several mosh pits breaking out at the Soudcheck concerts I attended though, if that is your thing. - Drinks: Good drinks, without too much of a wait, can be a little pricey, but that's really just DC for ya -Space: Can be a bit tight of a squeeze for more popular shows read more

Soundcheck - Inside the venue - Music Venues Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

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my friend was escorted out only because they slightly stumbled going up a staircase while wearing heels. if you plan to drink here beware the staff will kick you out on a whim. the venue, on the other hand, has no problem serving you copious amounts of expensive drinks. some members of their staff did not seem like very happy people. read more

Brought to you by the owners of Echostage, Soundcheck is DC's newest intimate music venue for fans of electronic dance music. Located at the corner of 14th and K (at the space formally occupied by Lotus nightclub), Soundcheck is built like a recording studio with an abundance of soundproofing and is all about that "small room, big sound." Once you go down the stairs, you feel like you're in a different era. The club itself is decorated like the clubs of the '80s-'90s and their high-quality sound system and lighting is ON POINT. There's two shiny disco balls hanging down form the ceiling, one long bar next to the dancefloor, in addition to a private bar exclusive for the table area. There are tables located right in the back of the club as well as to the right of the DJ. Their lineup is already out for the next few months and they're bringing a ton of big acts that I'm looking forward to seeing. I can't wait to come back again soon! read more

Soundcheck - a room with a lot of light coming from the ceiling - Music Venues Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

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Completely opposite of echostage which is a good thing! Our night continued and ended here with a performance by one of my favorite DJs, Mr. Gareth Emery. First, you go downstairs (watch your steps). Turn a couple corners and you're on the dance floor where there are tables in the back and the long bar on the sides. There are screens on both sides showing the dates of upcoming shows. There are several good ones coming up that I will try to involve myself with. The hallway had the restrooms and there will be lines. The venue holds up to 500 people being much smaller than echostage. However it's a bit more classier and with a more 21+ crowd than the 18+ crowd. I saw more wristbands than X marks so I felt more comfortable. Plus people seemed to dress more classy instead of wearing those ridiculous tutus and stuffed animal costumes. The experience is more intimate due to the compactness of the venue which also produces great sound. Quality = crystal clear, loud but no ringings. Also soundproof so when you go out for smoke breaks you don't have music pumping in your direction. Plus much cleaner! Staff (bartenders, security, door people) were nice and they seemed pleasant. I was skeptical because I read some reviews about their attitudes and customer service treatment but no complaints from me. Perhaps if you're nice to them, they'll be nice to you; and don't take anything personally since they are just doing their jobs. I guess some people don't get that part. This was my first and won't be my last time. It showed me that a smaller venue for edm music can be a better experience than a larger and crowded venue. I would assume the artists playing here feel the same as they have some great shows coming up. I look forward to attending if I can! read more

Soundcheck - Part of the bar. So bright! - Music Venues Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

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I came here for Alan Fitzpatrick, who got on at midnight. I danced my butt off! The sound is system is nothing to write home about, though it sounds pretty decent if you're very close to the front. The bar lines one large side of the space, so there's easy access. The bartenders were efficient ($8/ can of beer). There are bathroom attendants, though the stalls were still a bit of a mess by the end of the night. This is more about the DC crowd than the venue, but expect to be pushed around by other patrons who act super entitled. Still, this venue clearly is bringing in some good names. It was a very fun night. read more

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Great venue for edm concerts with friends! I suggest getting there early for the line can get long!

Soundcheck has gone DOWNHILL, and honestly this venue is complete TRASH, and deserves 0 stars. My friend was having a going-away celebration, and a group of our friends wanted to go out. They chose Soundcheck last night (07/29/2017). Saturday nights are "Hip Hop" nights. WHAT A JOKE. This venue is completely unprofessional, and WILL NOT BE RECOMMENDING it to anyone; in fact I will be glad to persuade people to go ANYWHERE in DC besides Soundcheck. THE STORY: I wasn't planning on going out last night, so I had to borrow shoes from a friend. They hurt like hell so I was resting for a second against one of the boxes on the middle of the dance floor (WHICH, plenty of other people were leaning on too)... One of the go-go dancers who wore a red bandana with booty shorts (all of them had the same exact outfit but she was the darker skinned one) proceeded to come out of nowhere and SHOVE me in the back. ARE YOU KIDDING ME? DON'T act like it's OK to push patrons (well, I didn't pay cover but besides the point) who go to the club you merely dance at. Get off your damn high horse, or should I say get off your plastic box and get over yourself... Highly disrespectful, and I noticed that the other female workers carrying bottles and wearing white pushed everyone in the crowd too. NOTHING about this place is worth it, unless you like to be physically harassed by the workers here and surrounded by a wack crowd of ABG's and ___ boys. read more

The bouncers are extremely rude. Went here as a 23-year-old, and they accused me of giving them a fake. While I understand it is their job to ensure no one underage gets in, I offered them all the other forms I had on me and asked them to scan it. All three men by the door were all extremely rude to me and would only let me in with a passport. Thankfully, I had a photo of my passport on me, and they let me in, but that was without apologizing or saying anything remotely kind towards me. After they said I could go in I looked inside, saw how dead and boring it was, and then immediately left crying due to how they treated me. I understand they were just doing their job, but the way in which they did it was unacceptable. I have never had a problem in DC with my license before here. I have a Tennessee license, since I just moved here and have not had time to get a new one. It is clear to me that the bouncers are severely undereducated and undertrained on what other state's license look like and how to spot a fake. read more

If you want to get Covid your should come here. This place is the perfect place. 18+ they also don't check for vaccination proof cards. Clients were wearing masks only outside when the bouncers are checking IDs. The minute you get in ..... you can breath on each other's face for free. Total super spreader. Where's ABRA? Oh wait the minute they probably don't care as long as these places keeps giving them money. Lots of money$$ read more

Okay so I came here for a bday. Bouncers were assholes. I understand you guys go through dealing with a whole bunch of drunk people, but you could do better. I am going to tell you everything from the beginning. My friend came out of SC to say goodbye to someone and was not let back in bcuz they were not "in the right state of mind". This I understand. But because my friends were left with no choice, I was standing outside, I waited along side with them. What I witnessed was just wrong. People had come outside to smoke a cig (since it is not allowed indoors) and not allowed back in because it is "after 3". I have multiple videos showing, and myself confronting the "bouncers" of why they wouldn't let the patrons in back in to SC to claim their stuff. Their reason was that it was after "3am" but my lengthy video stated otherwise. Then when I confronted them, they accused me that I wad treating the bouncers wrong. The attached photo is of the girl who got in my face because she said it was after three and and she was in her right the whole time. Girl, you aren't god. You can speak and act better words to people. read more

Soundcheck - Music Venues Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

Believe it or not, Soubcheck is actually a great location! It's got this cool subterranean vibe going on, the bouncers seem nice and the speakers are powerful. So why the low rating? THE MANAGEMENT. There are clubs in Addis Ababa that are infinitely better than Soundcheck because of management. First, this has no business being an 18+ venue. If I can't even hear a DJ play over kids taking selfies and trying to socialize, ON THE DANCEFLOOR, then the venue sucks. I couldn't wait to leave after my DJ played my favorite song. Second, THERE ARE MASSIVE DEADZONES WITH THE SPEAKERS!!! Draw a square and an X across it. The spaces around the X are the deadzones where you either only hear sound out of one speaker or no sound at all!!! This is basic acoustics. Get some side speakers to clear out the deadzones! Third, the bartenders. *sigh* they were dressed in skimpy bodysuits and calling me "babe". What the hell... This isn't stadium. I'm not at a strip joint, I'm at a venue/club... But it makes sense when you're paying $11 for a watered down mixed drink that would cost $8-9 at either Flash or any other sensible club. Do better Soundcheck. Do better. read more

A decent venue for what we saw. The crowd was on the younger side, not sure if it was because of who we saw or what. I'd have to go back to get a more accurate opinion. The bathrooms were a bit grungy but the bartenders were nice. Pretty cool that the walls absorb the sound! read more

Soundcheck is a great venue and option (much smaller venue) if you're into edm/dance instead of going echostage. Ticket prices are reasonably priced. $15-$30 depending on the dj/artist. DJ booth is relatively low so occasionally you'll get a high five or even a selfie depending on the artist. It is always crowded in the front but towards the back of the venue it is definitely more laid back with plenty of space to dance. I prefer this, than feeling sweat off people who walk past me through crowds, ugh! Crowd: most of the attendees are youngins (18+ through college age). Bartenders: gorgeous bartenders who are extremely nice! Efficient. They never hesitate when I ask for water (pre-filled behind bar). VIP tables: VIP section to the right of the dj booth or tables available at the very back of the venue. The back tables are never occupied. Sound/sound system: eh ok. The volume does not match the size of the venue and equipment. The settings are set over than what the equipment can handle. read more

The bad reviews are HILARIOUS im here for this drama They mad because the bartenders are wearing bodysuits but i bet the same people go to hooters and have no complaints. let them be sexy so the dumb drunk men give the women some tips women deserve all the moneys. The security does their job and they do an awesome job at it. If someones too messed up, theyll take em to medical or to sit down. If someones harassing a woman or on molly and doin a lil too much IGHT time to go. The music bumps loud asf so grandmas and grandpas grab some headphones. And yes we got some grammy ravers here and we love them all shout out Ppl talking about long lines probably got there before it opens without knowing it bc after open and the rest of the night its quick to get in. Youre safe here unlike at most other places. Dress how you want be who you want it dont matter just be a damn adult If u got a fake id dont come here we dont want you and they wont let you in! read more

Recently came here for a day party (on a Saturday) during Howard's Homecoming and we found parking right out front. Woot!!! Not sure how long it's been under the name, "soundcheck," but I've been here before under a different name. The music was great and the drinks were decent. It was very dark for a "day party" but we had a good time while we were here (two hours). We couldn't stay much longer since some of our friends got hungry and they don't offer food here. read more

My friends and all I found this place a few months ago and have been coming frequently. The music is great if you like an intimate EDM experience. Also, tables are reasonably priced and are very worth getting especially with large groups. Management is also excellent: there was an overcharge on my balance a night I bought a table and management quickly refunded me the money and sent me 2 free tickets. Very glad to have found this place as there are not many venues like this in DC. A great place to go if you're over the decades/ sauf haus/ Madhatter vibe. read more

Soundcheck is turning into my second home on weeknights. I believe Soundcheck is operated by the same people who opened Echostage, glow and ultrabar in efforts to rake in a little profit on weeknights for the weekday warriors such as myself. The promoters have brought in some pretty popular names in EDM from Slander to Tommy Trash, Kayzo and even Cedric Gervais. I've been a regular patron at Echostage but within the last 2 years, I've been holding back because of the rude and sweaty crowds, strict rules, and the long lines. Soundcheck is super intimate, and probably even a little smaller than U Street Music Hall. Despite the small size, I've never had an issue with bumping into other guests or waiting long to be noticed at the bar. Entry into Soundcheck never takes longer than 10 minutes, even if you haven't purchased a ticket. The restrooms are always clean and well stocked, and the bouncers are never rude about re-entry if you leave to smoke a cigarette or if you forgot something in your car. I really have no complaints about this place. As I've said, it's becoming a new home for me after Echo turned into the crowded weekend watering hole that it is today. I wish I could keep this place a well-kept secret but seems as though word is starting to spread. Bigger names such as Bingo Players and Gareth Emery are slated to perform later this month. See you there! read more

I went on a Friday night, as one of my friend's friends was DJing that night. Being the former Lotus, they made some cool structural changes to the place, so it really looks like a whole new club. We had a blast. They had a special on one of the beers that night, which was great. I'm not sure if it happens every weekend, though. The music format was international and top 40 and I assume it's different on different nights. It got packed later on in the evening and everyone was having a great time. I'd definitely come back again. read more

Talk about a change!I remember this place as Lotus Lounge and then something else...like Fly Bar or something like that...it's been too long. What is this Soundcheck? Well think of it as you mini echostage..don't know that? Ok maybe a mini 9:30 or just a mini place for music jammers to listen to their favorite deejay or music artists. The space amazed me. The entrance was kept the same, basically you go down the stairs and at the end you'll see the front desk ( the two cashiers). This is where you scan in your tickets or purchase. As soon as you're in, you'll get stamped by the security guard. Then you unwind your self through the halls and into the venue. VIP are located in the far back...a little unusual but a nice change for fans to feel closer to the artists. There is a small VIP section next to the deejay stage. I remember this place being lot smaller and the bar was located on the other side... The prices at the bar were decent and the range of beer selection were much nicer than echostage or other venues. The space wasn't too bad but can get a bit crowded and overwhelmingly hot. I got to see DJ A-trak. So most of the audience were bit older and around my age, which made it more chill and fun. Because he spinned some old jams haha. Overall, soundcheck is a whole lot fun. I highly recommend giving this venue a shot and should check out some of these talented artists. Never know who they may bring in next! read more

Cozy lounge with a casual hipster vibe. Sometimes they have a bar open in the back corner. Great for an intimate vibe with whoever is playing for the night or day. Love that they don't really require a dress code so you can go in your keds but if you are in the mood to get dolled up - thats cool too. read more

When it comes to music venues, it is easy to be turned off. Wether that be the drunk underage teenagers, a dirty venue, or an unhappy staff...we have all experienced it. From the moment I arrived at Soundcheck I felt welcomed and throughout my night the place was kept clean for an enjoyable experience. Soundcheck has created a space where you can enjoyably explore new artists with a very personable experience. Although not a large venue, the sound was adjusted well, the lights were fantastic, and you can actually interact with the performer. If you are visiting to enjoy music, this is a fantastic venue. If you are looking to hook up with singles and get wasted this probably isn't the place for you, do us all a favor and stick to Eco stage. The cleaning staff was respectable of the patrons space and did not come clean around our feet, they were friendly and lively which gave me the impression that they enjoyed their job. And believe it or not they kept up with any trash that was on the ground...the place was incredibly clean. I never once felt dirty. The bathroom staff was friendly and helpful as well. The bar tending staff was skilled, friendly, and quick. The security staff was alert and respectful. Soundcheck really is a fantastic venue. Clean, friendly staff, and amazing musical experience. My first visit was to see a huge house performer that I have been itching to see for years, Mark Knight, this will certainly not be my last visit. I Strongly recommend Soundcheck, I feel confident that you will have an enjoyable night. read more

Soundcheck - Very personal experience with artists. Patrons were getting high fives and handshakes were exchanged. Truly unique experience - Music Venues Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

Sound check takes forever to get in and once in you feel like you are being followed. Staff made me feel like I was being stalked and it took 40 mins to get in for not that long of a line. Staff makes you feel uncomfortable as a woman cannot even go into the women's bathroom without being followed without a male bouncer. Made me very uncomfortable would never recommend especially for women. read more

Ehhhh. I'd really hate to leave a 2 star review but soundcheck was just whatever to me. Hip-hop night was all right. There were some songs that were definitely not hip-hop though. Drinks are as expected. $20 cover charge but I got in for free. I think what really threw me off though was the crowd (and the DJ I guess but just for hiphop). I mean I know everyone drinks and stuff but the crowd seemed like....unusually aggressive? I saw multiple girls get shoved by the gogo dancers. A handful of angry boyfriends and crying girls. Like, I've never been so confused while drinking. I almost felt like I was back in college. (And it's funny cause hip hop is playing in the background while everything is happening!!) Anyways. Soundcheck to me feels like an off brand, koreatown/LA club, except here they wear Adidas sneakers and flats (which I kinda like). Wouldn't wanna come back though. read more

DC has so many wonderful venues. We stopped by for a private event. The security guards were nice. The downstairs area has a giant dance floor and seating. The bartenders and staffers were nice. CAUTION: If you are entering the larger seating area with dice blocks on the floor, watch your step. There is a sudden drop with no warning. Soundcheck is nice. The calendar has a lot of artists scheduled throughout the rest of the year. read more

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Music was everything! Great techno music, Went on a Saturday night and the manager {Dave) was the best! So friendly! Nice vibes! Come through!!! read more

Amazing security staff. Amazing bartenders. Amazing production! My only complaint is that Darude only played Sandstorm once. I also have to give props to the security by the DJ. He was handing out waters all night and he kicked out this drunk girl who tried to kiss me, kiss him and kiss his supervisor. read more

Awful venue. First and foremost they denied my friend entry with no premise and refused to refund. Following that the sound quality and audio relative to other venues in DC is pure garbage. Lyrics in songs are barley distinguishable as it all blends together due to the terrible sound. Edit: my friend whom they say was under the influence was in fact not under the influence. read more

Came here to have a good time and we had our jackets on the couch while dancing the employees took our jackets and put it in the corner with the trash and the mop bucket while they were trying to clean up. They close at 3 and it's only 230 so while trying to clean they could care less about the people in the place or respecting their customers. So rude of course when I asked the employees they said they saw nothing. I understand wanting to clean up but if you are going to be moving couches and cleaning up early at least respect your customers. read more