The Return of the Testsalon: Almost One Year in the Basement of Rough Trade Denmark Street

There has always been a lot going on in the basements of Denmark Street. When we opened SchneidersKeller in March 2025, the goal was simple: to get a dedicated space for modular synthesis back into London.

The Testsalon

The connection between Rough Trade and SchneidersLaden goes back to 2011. The original Testsalon was a showroom in Rough Trade East that acted as a bridge to SchneidersLaden in Berlin. It was a place where you could actually get hands on, for a time this was the only space in London where you could see and hear these instruments. 

Watch Andreas' video below for a full overview, complete with a direct line to the shop in Berlin! 

After the Testsalon closed, I spent several years working at London Modular. That time really confirmed how important it is for London to have a physical hub where people can come in, ask questions, and actually patch things in person.

The Testsalon MKii...

In December 2024, we ran a pop-up just to test the waters and see if there was still an appetite for a dedicated space like this. The turnout was better than we expected, and it gave us the confidence to move forward with a permanent spot in the basement of the new Rough Trade on Denmark Street.

A Space to Sit and Patch

One thing we were certain about was the layout. Modular synthesis takes time to get your head around, so we did not want a shop where you feel rushed.

We built the space with places to sit down and get to know the instruments. We want people to feel like they can take their time, get comfortable with a system, and figure out the gear at their own pace. There is no pressure to get in and out of the door: it is about getting to know the synth, the space, and the people behind the counter.

Looking Ahead

While we finally got the website live in November 2025, our focus is still very much on what happens in the shop. We have already had our first live event and our first workshop for this year, there will be more of that to come, so stay up to date by signing up to the mailing list, as well as giving us a follow on Instagram and Youtube...

We have much more planned so watch this space, or just come down for a natter.