About Sound Nightclub
Sound Nightclub is a mid-sized dance music club in Hollywood built specifically for electronic music culture. Opened on New Year’s Eve 2012 by Muse Lifestyle Group (owners including Rob Vinokur and Kobi Danan), Sound features about 8,000 square feet of space and roughly 500-person capacity (www.laweekly.com ). Unlike typical celebrity-centric venues on the Strip, Sound was conceived “100 percent for dance music and DJ culture” (www.laweekly.com ). Its designers (New York’s iCrave firm) blended modern décor with raw, industrial touches, including decorative elements like reclaimed wood from Frank Sinatra’s old home and railroad railings, creating a unique loft-style atmosphere (www.soundnightclub.com ) (www.soundnightclub.com ). Signature features include a sunken central dance floor with an elevated DJ booth at one end, multiple full-service bars, oversized VIP booths, and advanced visuals (custom 3D video mapping on screens and changeable silk facade panels) throughout the club (www.soundnightclub.com ) (joynight.com ). Sound is also notable for its high-end sound system – originally a custom Funktion-One and later a Pioneer GS-Wave system – designed to deliver crystal-clear bass for underground house and techno (www.laweekly.com ) (www.pioneerproaudio.com ).
Events and Programming
At Sound Nightclub you’ll find a steady schedule of underground electronic music nights rather than the mainstream “bottle service” events common in Hollywood. The booking focus is on deeper house, techno, disco and progressive sounds. Early on Sound opened with U.K. DJ Sander Kleinenberg and maintained resident DJs like Doc Martin and Droog (www.laweekly.com ) (www.laweekly.com ). It has hosted world-class techno and house acts many times over, from Pete Tong (who even ran an “All Gone Pete Tong” residency there) (www.latimes.com ) to Lee Foss, Anna Lunoe, Guy Gerber and beyond (www.latimes.com ). In fact, Sound co-founder Rob Vinokur said he modeled the club on Underground institutions like Fabric London or Sven Väth’s Cocoon – attracting crowds by its consistent music and vibe, not by celebrity hype (www.laweekly.com ).
Regular club nights run late (often 10 PM – 2 AM or later) on Tuesdays, Fridays and Saturdays, with occasional Thursday events (discotech.me ). Promoters often produce themed nights and small festivals in-house (for example, Minnesota-based “Night Bass” parties and local collectives like Blind Tiger or Framework have held events and after-parties there). The club also throws special events around holidays, including an annual New Year’s Eve series (often a multi-night “pass” for NYE) and occasional daytime or back-to-back parties. Ticket prices range with the lineup – typical GA covers start around $20-25, with major headliners or peak-night shows reaching $40–$50 or more (discotech.me ). Table service is available for VIP groups, with dance-floor tables often opening around a $500 minimum spend and raised riser booths around $1,000 minimum (bottlemenuservice.com ). Over the years Sound has even hosted A-list guests – for example, DJ Kaskade once appeared the night of a big Hollywood show, and hip-hop superstar Jay-Z held an intimate after-party here (www.latimes.com ) – underscoring the venue’s reputation for quality music and sound.
Tickets and Booking
Tickets for Sound Nightclub events are typically sold through the club’s official channels and authorized sellers (watch the club’s website or social media for announcements). General admission tickets often go on sale a few weeks before a show. Because Sound is relatively small (few hundred capacity) and draws a dedicated following, popular events may sell out quickly. As a result, it’s wise to buy tickets early once they’re announced. Tickets at the door are sometimes available if an event isn’t sold out, but cover prices are generally higher and vary by artist. In practice, night-to-night cover often starts low (around $20) for less heralded DJs, but can climb into the $30–$50 range for big-name or internationally touring acts (discotech.me ).
Sound also offers a guest list (free RSVP) on select nights. Guest list details are usually announced in advance of each event (often midweek before a weekend show) via the club’s newsletter or social media. Signing up early can get you free entry before a certain time (subject to capacity and any restrictions). For premium experiences, VIP tables and bottle service are available – check with the venue’s host or bottle-service provider for pricing and minimum spend requirements (e.g. roughly $500+ on the floor, $1,000+ on risers (bottlemenuservice.com )). Keep in mind large events like New Year’s Eve often require special tickets or multi-night passes well in advance.
Seating and Layout
Sound’s layout is designed for an immersive dance-floor experience. The main room features a large sunken dancepit in front of an elevated DJ booth, with the crowd standing or dancing on that recessed floor. Surrounding the pit on higher levels are several VIP booths (often arranged along side walls) with clear sightlines to the DJ and floor. Multiple full-service bars and lounge seating line the periphery. There are no fixed seats – general admission floor and raised riser tables are the norm. In this setup, the best “view” is often from the center of the dance floor or from the VIP booths at floor level, where you can see the DJs and screens clearly. Audio-wise Sound is known for its quality: reviewers have praised the club’s custom sound (one wrote that “the sound system is nuts” for its power and clarity (www.latimes.com )). Be aware it can be very loud and bass-heavy (earplugs are often recommended for comfort).
In terms of sightlines, there aren’t bad spots given the club’s intimate size. Near the DJ offers energy, while spots by the back or sides give a good overview of the crowd and visuals. Sound’s 3D mapping and LED projections (visible on surfaces around the room) keep things interesting from any angle. Inside, the atmosphere is dark and clubby – professional lighting rigs and video screens create constantly changing lighting effects. One advantage of Sound’s design is that it avoids feeling overcrowded: with only a few hundred people in an 8,000-sqft space, there is room to move. However, when things get busy you may have to navigate around dancers, so wearing comfortable shoes is wise.
Getting There and Parking
Sound Nightclub is located at 1642 North Las Palmas Avenue in Hollywood (just north of Hollywood Boulevard) (www.latimes.com ). This is in the heart of Hollywood’s theater district, only about one block west of the Hollywood/Highland trolley stop. By car, there is a small club-owned parking lot directly south of the venue at 1634 N. Las Palmas Ave (www.soundnightclub.com ). (Many visitors use this lot on event nights.) In addition, there are a number of paid lots and garages within a few blocks – for example, private lots at 1637 N. Las Palmas ($10 on event nights) and 1638 N. Las Palmas ($15) and another on Schrader Ave. ($10) serve the club (bottlemenuservice.com ). Street parking is very limited, so it’s safest to use one of the nearby paid lots or hotel garages. Some local garages near Hollywood Blvd (like at Highland or Morningside Ct) also operate by the evening and may offer valet service.
If using public transit, the Metro Red or Purple Line stops at Hollywood/Highland and Hollywood/Vine stations, both roughly a 10-minute walk from Sound (along Hollywood Blvd) (moovitapp.com ). Several Metro buses run along Sunset and Hollywood that have stops near Las Palmas – for example, Lines 2 and 4 (and the 224) stop in the area, as does the DASH Hollywood shuttle (moovitapp.com ). Rideshare (Uber/Lyft) drop-off is convenient at the corner of Las Palmas and Hollywood or on Sunset Blvd a block away. Note that Uber/Lyft can get busy on late nights, so allow extra time. During busy hours, it can also make sense to walk from Hollywood & Highland (about 0.3 mi east) or from the Roosevelt Hotel area if traffic is snarled.
Inside the Venue
On entry, Sound enforces a strict door policy: you must be 21+ with valid photo ID (driver’s license or passport). Venue staff may check IDs and search for banned items. Sound follows a smart-casual dress code (www.soundnightclub.com ) – recommended attire is nice jeans or slacks with a shirt or blouse. The following are specifically not allowed: shorts, sweatpants/joggers, athletic tops or jerseys, beachwear or revealing tank tops, flip-flops or sandals, and work boots (www.soundnightclub.com ). Management reserves the right to refuse service for inappropriate dress (www.soundnightclub.com ). In practice, this means no baggy or sporty clothes: think of it as upscale nightclub attire. Men will almost always need to wear pants and closed shoes, and women usually wear dresses, skirts or stylish pants and shoes.
Smart casual attire only – no shorts, athletic wear, cheap or beach clothes (www.soundnightclub.com ).
Must be 21 or older – have your ID ready (Sound is legally 21+ at all times) (www.soundnightclub.com ).
No large bags, suitcases or bulky electronics (www.soundnightclub.com ) – small purse or clutch only.
No bottles, drinks or outside food (www.soundnightclub.com ). (Water to go is fine.)
No firearms or weapons of any kind (www.soundnightclub.com ). (This includes pocket knives.)
No illegal drugs – Sound is in compliance with L.A. law, so only legal liquor/drinks.
After passing security, you’ll enter a lobby/bar area before taking steps down to the main room. Inside, you’ll find multiple full bars serving cocktails, beer, and wine, as well as high-top tables and lounge seating along the sides (www.soundnightclub.com ). There is a coat check service at the door (check if you need to stow jackets). Restrooms (men’s and women’s) are available off to the sides near the bar areas. There is usually a modest food menu for VIPs or catering (Sound’s on-site kitchen is mostly for special events), but don’t expect a full restaurant – patrons typically grab a quick bite from nearby cafes or food trucks. Most customers line up by 10:30pm or 11pm for early arrival access; latecomers may have some wait time.
In terms of technology, Sound offers free Wi-Fi for guests (ask at the bar for login details). Mobile phone reception inside can be spotty due to the club’s depth, but staff often have a venue line if needed. Photo-taking with phones is generally fine – many people film short videos – but tripods or professional camera rigs are not allowed (recall no “large electronics” (www.soundnightclub.com )). Sound does allow tweeting or sharing on social media. Keep in mind that once you exit the club, re-entry is not guaranteed, so plan ahead if you think you’ll step outside for air between sets.
Nearby Amenities
Sound is in a busy part of Hollywood, so you’ll find plenty of places to eat and drink within walking distance. For dining, options range from fast casual to upscale. For example, just a few blocks away on Sunset Blvd is ROKU (Japanese/sushi, 6634 Sunset) and Trejo’s Cantina (Mexican American, 1556 N Cahuenga, ~0.2 mi) (www.los-angeles-theatre.com ). The Dream Hollywood rooftop lounge (American bar with great city views, 6417 Selma) is also a popular pre-show spot (www.los-angeles-theatre.com ). Tearooms and cafes like The Coffee Bean or Fred 62 are nearby for a late-night snack. On Hollywood Blvd (a short walk down Hollywood at Highland) you’ll find dozens of restaurants, food stalls and fast food (including the Hollywood & Highland Center shops), though these close earlier at night. In general, blocks within a 5–10 minute walk of Sound are loaded with eateries of various cuisines.
As for nightlife, several stylish bars and lounges are nearby if you want to hit another spot before or after Sound. The Slate cocktail lounge at the Roosevelt Hotel (1749 N. Orange) is famous for live piano music, and Good Times at Davey Wayne’s (a throwback 70s-themed bar) is a few blocks north on Cahuenga. On Highland there are also clubs and lounges associated with local hotels like the W Hollywood. These are all within about 10–15 minutes’ walk.
Hotels near Sound include The Hollywood Roosevelt and Loews Hollywood (both around a half-mile east at Orange/Highland), and the W Hollywood (north east at Hollywood & Highland). The newer Mama Shelter Hollywood is a boutique option at Sunset/Las Palmas. Even a short Uber ride can connect you to midrange hotels on Vine or Sycamore. If you’re flying in, Sound is about 20–30 minutes by car from LAX (depending on traffic) and roughly 10–15 minutes from Burbank Airport.
What Makes This Venue Special
Sound has carved a unique niche in L.A. nightlife through its “no-frills, music-first” approach. In an entertainment district known for VIP bottle-service clubs, Sound’s identity is built on high-quality music and immersive technology. Owners deliberately steered away from Hollywood glitz; as one founder said, Scratch everything about the “EDM superstar” model. Instead Sound bills itself as an underground experience with a world-class sound system and top-notch DJs (www.latimes.com ). In fact, Sound’s founders aimed to be like London’s Fabric, attracting people for the quality of the music and vibe rather than celebrity. Los Angeles Times noted that Pete Tong switched his residency to Sound because “the club size, layout and technical spec are totally geared toward an underground experience” (www.latimes.com ). This focus on music over image helps explain why the club has remained beloved by local dance fans.
Architecturally and culturally, Sound stands out too. The venue’s raw-industrial décor mixed with cutting-edge visuals creates a memorable atmosphere – a “beautiful venue” with unexpected touches like Sinatra-era woodwork (www.soundnightclub.com ). The club also frequently showcases rotating art installations on its exterior and interior walls, supporting local and international artists (joynight.com ). Historically, Sound took over a spot on Las Palmas (the former Element/Vinyl club) but transformed it into something futuristic. It opened at the tail end of the EDM boom and eventually weathered that bubble by deliberately pivoting to more underground genres; this “going niche” has given Sound new credibility, as one reviewer observed (www.latimes.com ).
For L.A.’s community, Sound has become an anchor for electronic music. It consistently draws crowds that other clubs don’t – writers have noted that the typical Sound crowd is far more diverse and less concerned with Hollywood’s status game than at other clubs (www.latimes.com ). Big names like Kaskade or even Jay-Z have appeared there, but more often Sound champions up-and-coming talent and local party brands (for example, Culprit Sessions or monthly house nights like “FANGS Midnight Society” that launched at Sound). In short, Sound is special because it feels like a serious club for true music fans in Hollywood – immersive, high-tech, and dedicated to sound quality, with a friendly, authentic crowd. The verdict of many insiders is that … there’s no better feeling than dancing in a room that’s “turned up to 10” on both vibe and volume (www.latimes.com ).
Visitor Tips and Information
Timing: Sound events typically kick off late. Doors often open around 10–11 PM, with peak dancing after midnight until 2–4 AM. Arrive early (by 10–11 PM on busy nights) to avoid lines and catch the opening DJs. If it’s a big-name act, tickets often sell out – it’s safest to buy in advance. Check Sound’s social media or website for precise event start times.
Age and ID: Sound is strictly 21+ (you must be at least 21 to enter) (www.soundnightclub.com ). Bring a government-issued photo ID (driver’s license, passport, etc.) for entry. Even diplomats or foreign IDs should have a birthdate. Anyone under 21 will be refused, no exceptions. (This policy is strictly enforced.)
Dress Code: Remember the smart-casual policy – leave athletic gear, beachwear and flip-flops at home (www.soundnightclub.com ). Many patrons dress trendy: nice jeans or slacks, dresses, button-up shirts or blouses, and decent shoes are safe choices. The bouncers won’t let in people wearing branded sport jerseys, work boots, gym clothes or overly revealing clothes (www.soundnightclub.com ). Plan your outfit ahead of time to match the club vibe.
Bring only essentials: Don’t bring large backpacks or luggage; secure plenty of cash for cover and drinks (cards are accepted at bars but small cash helps for tips). Expect heavy security checks – outside food, bottles or weapons (including pocket knives) will be confiscated (www.soundnightclub.com ).
Acoustics: The sound system is very loud and bassy. If you’re sensitive to volume, bring earplugs. The club staff itself even recommends in-ear protection for safe hearing on long nights.
Cash vs. Cards: Most bars accept credit/debit, but it’s good to carry some cash for the cover charge or tips. ATMs in Hollywood often impose steep fees, so withdraw before you go if possible.
Accessibility: The main floor is sunken, so there are steps down from the entry level. The entrance and bar areas are at street level. Guests with mobility issues should contact the club in advance to check wheelchair access, as the dance floor itself is below ground level.
Lockers/Coat Check: Coat check is usually available (for a small fee) on busy nights. Keep an eye on your belongings. The club will not be responsible for lost items.
Arrival: Passes or prepaid tickets speed up entry. Photo the ticket QR code or have it ready on your phone. If you made a guest list RSVP, have your name and confirmation ready at the door (some events use guest lists).
Prohibited Items: Unplugged cameras/drone gear, professional camera tripods, and selfie-sticks are not allowed. You can use your phone or small camera for pictures.
Transportation home: After the event, buses and the subway have limited late-night service. Plan ahead with a rideshare or taxi if you’re staying far. Ubers and Lyfts line up around the corner on Hollywood Blvd or by Sunset/Las Palmas. Car services and on-demand shuttles are also common in Hollywood after midnight. If driving, remember traffic can be heavy; consider nearby overnight parking or hotel shuttles.
Security: The venue is well-staffed, but as in any busy club, watch your drink. Never leave your drink unattended and keep valuables on you. Follow any instructions from staff regarding evacuations or crowding. Sound’s staff is usually friendly and helpful if you have questions. If you lose something, speak to the bartender or DJ booth – items are often returned if found.
What is the capacity of Sound Nightclub?
Sound Nightclub holds roughly 500 people on its dance floor and balconies. The club occupies about 8,000 square feet, so it’s relatively compact and intimate compared to mega-clubs (www.laweekly.com ).
What kind of music and DJs play at Sound Nightclub?
Sound focuses on underground electronic music. You’ll hear genres like house (deep, tech, progressive), techno, disco and future beats. Resident DJs and guest headliners reflect this taste. Expect bookings from top house/techno acts (past examples include Pete Tong, Jamie Jones, and Anna Lunoe) rather than mainstream pop or EDM artists (www.latimes.com ) (www.timeout.com ). In short, it’s a true DJ club, so it caters to fans of club music.
How can I buy tickets and what do they cost?
Tickets are sold online via Sound’s official outlets (check their website or trusted ticket partners). Prices vary with the lineup: on a typical night cover starts around $20–$25, but can rise into the $40–$50 range for big-name DJs (discotech.me ). It’s best to buy in advance, as Sound has limited capacity. Some events also offer free guest-list entry (see below). If tickets remain unsold, limited door sales may be available at the listed price.
Is there a guest list or presale?
Yes. For many nights Sound releases a free guest list (RSVP) ahead of time. Guest list sign-ups usually open on the club’s website or app by mid-week before an event (discotech.me ). Signing up can get you free entry before a cutoff time (often around midnight), subject to capacity. Details vary by event, so follow Sound’s social media or newsletter for each event’s guest list rules. If you miss the guest list, you can still buy a ticket or try your luck at the door (space permitting).
Are tickets sold at the door?
Sometimes. If an event is not sold out, Sound will sell tickets at the door for the posted cover price (cash or card at the entrance). On very busy nights or headliners, early tickets may sell out and the door may close early. It’s safer not to rely on door sales for sold-out shows. If the club is sold out, no door tickets will be available.
What is the address and how do I get there?
Sound Nightclub is at 1642 N. Las Palmas Avenue in Hollywood, CA (near Sunset Blvd). The closest Metro rail stops are Hollywood/Highland and Hollywood/Vine (Red/Purple Line), each about 0.5 mile away. (www.latimes.com ) (moovitapp.com ). Many city buses stop nearby on Sunset or Hollywood. By car, use Sunset or Hollywood itself to reach Las Palmas. There’s a private lot at 1634 Las Palmas (right next to the club) plus several paid lots a few blocks around.
What parking options are available?
Parking in Hollywood can be tight. Sound’s recommended lot is just south at 1634 N. Las Palmas (www.soundnightclub.com ). Additional private lots nearby include 1637 N Las Palmas (about $10) and 1638 N Las Palmas (about $15) (bottlemenuservice.com ). A third garage on Schrader Ave (east of Las Palmas) is usually around $10 (bottlemenuservice.com ). Several pay lots on Hollywood Blvd and to the north (like Highland Ave garages) are within walking distance too, often $10–$15 for the night. Street parking is limited, so using a paid lot or valet (if offered) is advised.
What public transit serves Sound Nightclub?
The Metro Red/Purple line (Hollywood/Highland or Hollywood/Vine stations) is an easy way to reach Sound; both are short walks away (moovitapp.com ). Buses 2 and 4 run along Sunset Blvd near the club, and the DASH Hollywood shuttle also stops close by (moovitapp.com ). If you’re riding the buses, get off at Las Palmas or Cahuenga. Late-night rideshares and taxis are common in the area if you need a ride home after closing.
Is Sound wheelchair accessible?
Sound is an indoor venue with a sunken dance floor, which means there are steps from the entrance to the main area. The entrance/bar area is at street level, but the dance floor is one level below. Because of this, Sound may not be fully wheelchair accessible without assistance. Visitors requiring accessibility accommodations should contact the club ahead of time to discuss entry options and any available elevator or ramp access.
What should I wear to Sound Nightclub?
Sound enforces a smart-casual dress code. Avoid athletic wear, baggy joggers, flip-flops or athletic jerseys (www.soundnightclub.com ). Nice jeans, stylish tops or dresses, and closed-toe shoes are the safest bets. The door staff may turn away guests in shorts, sweats, tank tops or beachwear, so come dressed to impress. On a cold night consider bringing a jacket, but note that coat check is usually provided.
Are there any age restrictions?
Yes – Sound is strictly 21+. This means everyone in your party must be 21 or over upon entry (www.soundnightclub.com ), without exception. Be prepared to show valid ID (driver’s license, passport, etc.). The club enforces this law rigorously. Guests under 21 will be denied entry even if accompanied by older friends.
What items are not allowed inside?
Security will confiscate any prohibited items at the door. This includes weapons or firearms, any glass bottles or outside alcohol, large backpacks or laptops, professional camera equipment, and illegal substances (www.soundnightclub.com ). You can bring a small purse or clutch, and personal electronics (phone, camera) are fine. Anything deemed a safety hazard or excessive by staff will be refused.
Can I take photos or use flash photography?
Casual photos with your phone are generally allowed, and many guests share club pics on social media. However, professional photography (large cameras, tripods, DSLRs) is not permitted (www.soundnightclub.com ). Also be considerate: flash or bright lights can be disruptive on the dance floor, so it’s best to turn off flash or use ambient lighting when taking pictures.
Is there a coat check or locker service?
Yes, there is typically a coat check counter at the entrance on busy nights (for a small fee). This lets you store jackets or small items while you dance. Keep your ticket stub or claim check safe. There are no locker rooms, so you cannot store bigger bags or belongings overnight.
Is seating or lounge available inside?
The main floor is standing room only except for the raised booth areas. Sound has several elevated VIP booths and high-top tables at the edges of the room for guests with bottle service. These offer some places to sit or lean, but most guests stand or dance on the floor. If you have a VIP table reservation, ask the host to ensure your party is seated. Otherwise, the general admission area has no guaranteed seating – everyone stands or dances.
Do they serve food or have a menu?
Sound is primarily a club, so on most nights the focus is drinks and dancing. Some light snacks (chips, nuts, etc.) may be available at the bars or in VIP areas, but there is no full restaurant service. The club does have an on-site kitchen, but that is usually used for private catering at special events. Before or after the show, most people eat at nearby restaurants in Hollywood.
How much should I expect to spend on drinks?
Drinks at Sound are typical nightclub prices. Cocktails usually run $12–$16, bottled beer around $7–$10, and wine by the glass is about $10–$15. A drink at the bar or staff will confirm the price. If you’re on bottle service, prices depend on liquor choice (a vodka bottle might start around $300). Remember to factor in tax and tip (15–20%) on any bill.