I haven't been to Mac Hall in years but I remember it being big and open and LOUD. Well its still loud only probably more so than I remember only because my ears are now older and more sensitive. For concert events this room is fantastic and I'm only deducting a star because there is no seating and I'm old so seating is kind of nice now. Really I'm not that old but I'm not as young as I once was so standing for 3 + hours for two bands is a little harder than it once was although I also drink less than I used to so maybe that impedes my standing stamina. As to sound Mac Hall has a pretty extensive system along with lighting to make any act stand out to its best. The room itself is quite deep but not cavernous as has a very high ceiling. There is a "beer corral" area for those who would like to partake but you cannot bring your drinks into the venue itself. Water only I believe. Security is definitely present but not oppressively so. They do a screening on your way in so make this fast by carrying little to nothing with you (ladies leave your purse at home). You will them throughout the crowd as well with their little flashlights. Just keeping everyone safe. Definitely a venue I would go to again, depending on who's playing of course.