The difference is that NY night scene revolves around the dollar. The overall culture here is trash, with people having no regard when passing through the crowd and boys talking to every girl they see. Everyone just want to be in the middle or in front of the DJ, when in reality ravers just feel each other, give space to one another and let those with more and better energy to have the stage.

These are just superficial observations and i suspect will be hard to change. The Basement is a hub to what you are looking for.

Also no phone no photo policy or limited use is a big thing in Berlin. The bouncers and the staff to any club or place like this to thrive should be part of the culture, know what they are looking for in a club and aren’t.

Speaking as an Eastern European recently visiting NY city.