From Tokyo to London to New York and even back home here in Dublin, hi-fi bars are redefining the bar scene across the world — blending high-end sound systems, curated vinyl and a variety of drinks options into one immersive experience.

In a world where background music has become background noise, a particular kind of bar is asking patrons to start listening by putting music at the forefront of their business, as well as integrating the nightlife culture we know and love.

In this special episode of NO ENCORE, Sonic Architect Adam Shanahan explores how these spaces emerged, why they resonate now, and what they reveal about our changing relationship with sound with some of the most in-the-know guests on-offer.

Guests:

• Dave Parle (Booker @ Hidden Agenda and owner @ The Big Romance and Fidelity Bar & Studio)
• Emmy Shigeta (DJ, resident @ Fidelity Bar)
• Toby Hatchett (Sound system designer @ The Big Romance, Hang Dai, Connolly's of Leap, Fidelity Bar & Studio)
• Chris Maestro (Owner @ BierWax, Brooklyn, New York City)
• Daithí Ó Drónaí (former co-host @ NO ENCORE and hi-fi bar enthusuast)

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This episode originally aired on Patreon on 03/11/2025. If you'd like bonus content like this, please be sure to sign up here – annual memberships come with a 10% discount.

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