Think vinyl is still an outdated way to listen to music? Well, the numbers speak for themselves. Last year, music fans purchased 16.8 million records!
Between the warm crackle of the audio, the packaging and liner notes, and the joy of having a physical copy of your favourite records, it’s no wonder why so many music lovers are enjoying vinyl.
Ready to start your collection? Here are a few tips to help start and maintain a vinyl collection so you can enjoy this blast from the past, too.
What You’ll Need
Before you kick out the jams, you’ll need the proper equipment starting with a turntable.
The good news is that turntables are more accessible than ever. Stores like Target and Walmart carry Crossley models that typically cost around $100 or less. Some even feature USB-compatibility so you can burn your favourite records to your computer.
The downside is that you get what you pay for. If you’re an audiophile, you may want to spend a bit more and invest in a big sound system. While sound systems cost a lot more, you’ll get more bang for your buck, as they include:
- Amps
- Preamp(s)
- A Turntable
- A cartridge
It’s an investment, to be sure. But it’s one worth making if you plan to make vinyl collecting a hobby. And if you need any financial help, you can always look into personal loans.
Starting Your Vinyl Collection
With your sound system up and running, it’s time to start populating your collection!
If you’re not sure where to begin, here are a few albums that most vinyl lovers suggest:
- “Dark Side of The Moon” – Pink Floyd (Buy on Amazon for $26.32)
- “Abbey Road” – The Beatles (Buy on Amazon for $20.49)
- “Pet Sounds” – The Beach Boys (Buy on Amazon for $21.38)
- “Rumours” – Fleetwood Mac (Buy on Amazon for $21.44)
- “Legend” – Bob Marley and the Wailers (Buy on Amazon for $17.89)
Since these records are so popular, you shouldn’t have an issue finding them at your local shop as well.
A quick note about buying used vinyl: always check the quality before committing to a purchase. Most stores won’t have a problem with letting you test out a record before making a decision, so don’t hesitate to ask.
Storage Tips
To keep your records in pristine condition, avoid leaving them in damp areas or by direct sunlight. Both can warp your vinyl and ruin your purchase.
You’ll want to store them standing up, too, like you would a book. Most record stores also sell vinyl shelves or crates for storing your music.
Finally, keep your records in their sleeves. Leaving a record on your turntable allows it to collect dust, which can ruin the integrity of the grooves.
Hear Your Favorite Music like Never Before
A vinyl collection is so much more than a stack of records. It’s a personal history of the music you love and a keepsake that you can pass down to your loved ones.
Now that you know how to start your vinyl collection, it’s time to get out there and buy some records. Have fun! You’ll be shocked at how addicting vinyl collecting can get.
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