Collecting vinyl records
Why You Should Start Collecting Vinyl Records
Vinyl Records Sound Better
One of the main appeals of vinyl records is their sound quality. Vinyl records have a warm, rich, and dynamic sound that digital formats can't match. Vinyl records also preserve the original recordings of the artists, without any compression or loss of detail. When you listen to vinyl records, you can hear every nuance and emotion of the music, as if you were in the studio with the musicians.
Vinyl Records Are Tangible
Another reason to collect vinyl records is their physicality. Vinyl records are not just files on a device, but objects that you can touch, hold, and admire. Vinyl records have beautiful artwork, liner notes, and lyrics that add to the experience of listening to music. Vinyl records also have a history and a story behind them, which makes them more valuable and meaningful than digital downloads.
Vinyl Records Are Diverse
Collecting vinyl records means getting organic exposure to new artists, albums, and songs. When you spend time hunting down new music on vinyl, you'll end up uncovering new favorites to obsess over and can spend time digging further into the discographies of legendary artists. You can also discover different genres, styles, and cultures of music through vinyl records, and expand your musical horizons.
Vinyl Records Are Fun
Last but not least, collecting vinyl records is fun. There's nothing like the thrill of finding a rare or sought-after record in a record store or online⁴. There's also the joy of playing a record for the first time and hearing it come to life on your turntable. Collecting vinyl records is a way to connect with other music lovers, share your passion, and learn new things.
How to Start Collecting Vinyl Records
If you're convinced that collecting vinyl records is for you, here are some tips on how to get started.
- Get a good turntable and speakers. You'll need a decent setup to enjoy the sound quality of vinyl records. You don't have to spend a fortune, but you should look for a turntable that has a solid platter, an adjustable tonearm, and a quality cartridge². You should also invest in some good speakers or headphones that can deliver clear and balanced sound.
- Buy some records. The best way to start collecting vinyl records is to buy some records that you like or are curious about. You can find new or used records at local record stores, online shops, flea markets, thrift stores, or garage sales². You can also join subscription services like The Sound of Vinyl that send you curated records based on your preferences³.
- Clean and store your records properly. To keep your vinyl records in good condition, you should clean them regularly with an anti-static brush or a cleaning device². You should also store them vertically in a cool and dry place, away from direct sunlight or heat sources. You should use inner and outer sleeves to protect your records from dust and scratches⁴.
- Do your research. Before you buy any record, it's important to do some research on its value and authenticity. You can use online resources like Discogs.com to find information on different releases, versions, and prices of vinyl records¹. You can also check the condition of the record using the Goldmine Standard¹, which is a grading system that rates vinyl records from Mint (M) to Poor (P).
- Have fun. The most important thing about collecting vinyl records is to have fun with it. Don't worry too much about rules or trends, but follow your own taste and interests. Collecting vinyl records is a personal journey that reflects your personality and passion for music.
Conclusion
Collecting vinyl records is a rewarding hobby that can enhance your appreciation and enjoyment of music. Vinyl records offer superior sound quality, physicality, diversity, and fun than digital formats. If you want to start collecting vinyl records, you'll need a good turntable and speakers, some records that you like or want to explore, proper cleaning and storage methods, and some research skills. Most importantly, you'll need a love for music and a sense of adventure.
