Devon Turnbull of OJAS's Audio Guide to NYC
Curated by Devon Turnbull
The last few years have been a whirlwind ascent for Devon Turnbull, and as the breadth of his OJAS audio projects has expanded, so have his travels. These days, it’s not uncommon to see Turnbull posting from the West Coast, or Japan, or the UK. But make no mistake; for Turnbull, New York City – specifically Brooklyn – is still home. His history in New York is comprehensive. It was from NYC in the ’90s that he discovered the graffiti and DJ scenes, where in the early ’00s he launched the streetwear brand Nom de Guerre, and where his OJAS listening room in partnership with USM is today. Given his deep history with New York, and OJAS’s brand platform to educate both newbies and enthusiasts alike as they journey through the world of hi-fi, we asked Turnbull for his favorite audio-centric places to shop, catch a show, or spend a night out in NYC.
Situated in the bustling tourist area of Union Square, Academy Records & CDs should be your first stop destination for those looking to expand their record collections. The shop also caters to multiple genres – Devon frequents it for classical music selections himself.
For over 40 years, Jazz Record Center has set the bar for vinyl collectors, DJs, aficionados and casual listeners alike. The quaint shop specializes in Jazz as the name would suggest, but is also a solid location for other genres as well, not to mention other media like CDs, books, magazines and more.
If you're looking for the OG listening room, look no further than the historic Public Records. Cafe/working space by day, bar/restaurant by night, the beautiful space and ultra chill atmosphere is filled with ultra high premium sound systems, OJAS included. The space is therefore perfect for amplifying live performances and DJ sets.
The Stone is known by many as an "experimental" music space, nestled within The New School university. Its non-profit approach allows for students and guests to use the space freely and devoid of restrictions, therefore fostering true musical creativity within its walls.
This small music club in the East Village opened in the early 2000s, acting as a venue for international artists, both renowned and up and coming. Above also is Studio 151, a swanky bar serving cocktails and sushi equating to a complete package for a great night out.
Housed separately inside the USM furniture shop in SoHo, the OJAS Listening Room is more like a speakeasy for audiophiles. Inside you'll find a full display of OJAS hardware, as well as speakers and stereos for the full brand experience.
A local produce-based restaurant, Port Sa'id attracts guests from all over the world not only for its eco-conscious menu, but also its highly praised approach to interior design, architecture, furniture and more. Naturally, sound is key as well to which Turnbull approves of, specifically the vintage Klangfilm speakers.
Record Bar EN is renowned for its impeccable sound quality, to which the owner consulted Devon Turnbull for the space's build out. The Japanese restaurant EN Japanese Brasserie attached is also home to the city's finest menu of traditional and modern Japanese fare, as well as excellent sake.
World famous for a reason: Carnegie Hall is well respected amongst locals just as much as it is to tourists and visitors. Turnbull respects its importance in the world of audio, and suggests not just going to visit the space but listening to music, real music, within the Stern Auditorium's near 2,800 seats.
10.
All Blues
All Blues is celebrated for its intimate ambiance and exceptional live performances, where the soulful sound of blues reverberates through the venue. Turnbull appreciates the vintage JBL sound system and the space's approach towards Japanese listening bars.