A Guide To Record Shopping

Interested in collecting records? Here's a guide of how to build the perfect collection.

Do your research-

If there is a specific record you are looking for, shop around and get an idea of how much it is worth. Once you know this, you can find the best deals.

Marketplaces often have very cheap vinyl for sale, however some may be over priced, so if you know how much it is worth, haggle! Market traders are looking to sell their stock, so they are likely to be lenient on their pricing. 

Always check the quality- 

When buying second hand vinyl, always check the quality of the record. You can always tell if a record has been looked after in the correct manner by the scratches on the face. Don't be afraid to ask a market trader or record shop owner to play the record for you before you buy it, they are always more than happy to do this. 

When buying a second hand record on Ebay, always check the condition stated and look at the pictures for any marks or scratches. If there are no pictures, think twice about purchasing it.

Do not lend out your collection- 

Just because you love and care for your record collection does not mean someone else will. Keep your records with your collection, people may end up "Borrowing them" long term, or damaging them while borrowing.

Check the serial numbers-

If you are collecting rare records, always check the serial number to ensure it is in fact the record you are looking for. 1st pressings (Originals) are worth much more than re-issues, an example of this is The Beatles- Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band. A 1st pressing of this LP is worth £100+ whereas a re-issue from 1980 is worth £20. 

To check the serial numbers, simply type it into Google, and it will show you which pressing it is.

Ask your Parents/Grandparents for their collection-

Many people do not collect vinyl anymore, and have them stored away in a box somewhere. Ask them if they will give you some records, if not buy them. You might find some hidden gems.

Look after your records-

Invest in a record box to store your vinyl in, and don't take a record out until the previous one has been placed back in the box. By doing this, no records will get damaged or lost. 

Do not sell any old records you own- 

Still play your old records, that's what they are made for, but do not sell them! Generally, the older a record is, the more it is worth (If it's a well known, popular record). 

I hope this helps anyone interested in collecting records, and if there is anything I've missed.. let me know, I can always write Part 2. 

Peace.