New York’s Highline Ballroom Turns To AKG Microphones to Make a Great Room Sound Even Better

When New York City’s Highline Ballroom opened its doors in April 2007, concert-goers entered what appeared to be a bare-bones, no frills venue—a departure from the high-profile, ambiance-heavy clubs that have sprung up in the city in recent years. This fresh take quickly earned the venue a reputation as one of the hottest new clubs in the city. Boasting a state-of-the-art sound system and a room completely devoid of any obstructed sightlines, it is not hard to see why.

When Amit Peleg, President of Peltrix was hired for consulting, design and installation of the Highline’s high-end sound system, he turned to AKG microphones. “I have been using AKG mics for over 30 years and love the way they perform,” explains Peleg. “The versatility of a microphone like the AKG C 414 B-XLS is perfect for this type of venue. You can use it to mic a piano at a softer show and then use it as an overhead on the drums for a rock show. I also love how the AKG microphones stand the test of time. I’m using two AKG 451 EBs for overheads and they came out almost 30 years ago!”

AKG microphones were brought in primarily for the drum setup. In addition to the C 414 B-XLS and AKG 451 B microphones used for overhead pickup, Amit Peleg uses a pair of AKG D112s and five AKG C418 MicroMics. The AKG D112s handle the kick drums while the AKG C418s capture the toms. The audio system at Highline Ballroom also includes six JBL VERTEC® VT4888DP midsize self-powered line array elements for the main PA system, two VT4888DP and two VT48882DP self-powered arrayable subwoofers for balcony delays. Outboard gear at front of house includes two dbx DriveRack 4800’s, with another DriveRack 4800 at the monitor console.

Since the club’s April 2007 opening, the Highline has gained a stellar reputation—not only with audiences but with musicians as well. In the first month alone, it hosted performances from Lou Reed, Mos Def, Amy Winehouse, Talib Kweli, Moe, and Disco Biscuits. Since then, other high profile artists such as Paul McCartney, Carlos Santana, Queen Latifah, Moby, and the Wailers have graced its stage. And at every show, AKG microphones are there to offer the best possible sound for the Highline Ballroom’s demanding audiences.