In the heart of the Czech Republic, just a short drive from Prague's bustling city center, lies a remarkable venue that defies conventional categorization. Doupě, which translates to "den" or "lair" in English, is a multifaceted operation that encompasses a record label, production company, festival booking, recording studio, and a breathtaking collection of vintage audio equipment – all housed within an elaborately converted garage.

Unlocking the Secrets of a Musical Utopia

A Sanctuary for Musicians and Audiophiles

Doupě is more than just a venue; it's a sanctuary for musicians and audiophiles alike. With three distinct stages, including an outdoor courtyard that can accommodate up to 350 people, a smaller indoor stage with unique vantage points, and an even more intimate 30-capacity room within the museum, the compound offers a diverse range of performance spaces. The artists who have graced these stages hail primarily from Eastern Europe and the jazz world, with renowned names like Billy Cobham, John Scofield, Al Di Meola, and Steve Gadd taking the spotlight.

The Museum of Sound: A Collector's Dream

The true centerpiece of Doupě, however, is the breathtaking "Museum of Sound" – a collection of vintage radios, gramophones, turntables, stereo systems, televisions, telephones, and other pristine antiques that have been meticulously curated by the venue's founder, Petr Chmela. This jaw-dropping assemblage, which has been decades in the making, spans nearly two centuries of audio history, from the earliest mechanical music boxes to the first sound carriers invented by Thomas Edison. The collection includes rare and one-of-a-kind items, such as a Sparton Nocturne radio and a Bang & Olufsen Hyperbo 5 RG Steel radio prototype, making it a true treasure trove for music enthusiasts and historians alike.

A Multifaceted Approach to Music and Art

Doupě's operations extend far beyond the confines of its physical space. The venue's subscription-based business model presents unique challenges for hosting one-off shows, but the team has found innovative ways to engage with a broader audience. They stage larger events, including the Metronome Festival, at other venues and utilize their remote facilities, such as the mobile studio they set up at last year's Metronome Festival, where British superstar Raye recorded a podcast interview and an impromptu 90-minute performance.

Attention to Detail and Quality

The attention to detail and quality is evident throughout Doupě's operations. The venue's sonically pristine rooms, beautifully decorated with vintage guitars, provide an immersive experience for both performers and audiences. The podcasts, livestreams, and small-batch vinyl releases produced by the in-house label showcase the team's commitment to excellence, with lavish artwork and high-quality pressing. Even the printed materials, including a stunning photo book documenting the venue's performances, reflect the same level of care and craftsmanship.

A Labor of Love and a Vision for the Future

Doupě is the realization of a lifelong dream for its founder, Petr Chmela. A former jazz drummer, Chmela's success with his kitchenware company, Tescoma, enabled him to indulge his passion for collecting and his vision of creating an ideal environment for musicians to thrive. Chmela's dedication and the expertise of his team, including David Gaydecka and Kryštof Kodl, have transformed Doupě into a unique and multifaceted operation that aims to position Prague as a global center for music and art.As Kodl explains, "Peter is working with musicians to make other musicians happy, and to make Prague maybe one of the music centers of the world." With its strategic location in Central Europe, Doupě is well-positioned to serve as a staging ground for North American artists touring Europe, providing them with a space to rehearse, record, and engage with the local media.Doupě's commitment to fostering creativity and preserving the rich history of recorded sound is a testament to the power of passion and vision. This extraordinary venue is not just a place for music and art, but a true sanctuary where the past, present, and future of sound converge, creating a truly unique and immersive experience for all who step through its doors.