Music is an art form that transcends time and generations. Although modern technology has made music streaming more accessible than ever before, there is something special about experiencing music through a vinyl record. Vinyl records offer a unique listening experience that simply cannot be replicated by digital streaming services like Spotify or Apple Music.
When you listen to your favorite song on a record player, the sound is raw and unfiltered, with all the pops and crackles that are unique to each record. You can hear the music the way it was meant to be heard, with a warmth and depth that digital music simply cannot match. For many people, listening to vinyl records is not just a hobby, but a way of life.
Whether you are a seasoned collector or a beginner looking to start your own vinyl record collection, this beginner's guide to record collecting will provide you with the knowledge and tools you need to fully enjoy the vinyl experience. So, let's dive in and explore the world of vinyl record collecting!
Getting Started: Equipment
Being a vinyl record enthusiast can be an expensive hobby, with so many options and choices to consider, especially for newcomers. But don't worry, we've got you covered! In this guide, we'll break down everything you need to know to start building your vinyl record collection and enjoying the music you love.
Record Player: Orbit Basic Turntable
The U-Turn Audio Orbit Basic Turntable is a high-quality, entry-level turntable designed to offer a superior listening experience for vinyl enthusiasts. It is made in the USA and features a precision tonearm, a quiet belt drive, and a pre-installed Ortofon OM 5E cartridge, which delivers excellent sound quality. The turntable is available in a variety of colors and finishes, and it comes with a dust cover to protect the turntable when not in use. Overall, the U-Turn Audio Orbit Basic Turntable is an excellent choice for anyone looking to upgrade their vinyl listening experience.
Speakers: Edifier R1280T
The Edifier R1280T Powered Bookshelf Speakers are a pair of compact and stylish speakers designed to deliver high-quality sound performance for your home audio system. These speakers feature a 2 x AUX input, a built-in amplifier, and a remote control for easy and convenient use. The speakers have a 4-inch bass driver and a 13mm silk dome tweeter that work together to produce clear and crisp audio across all frequencies. They also have a classic wood finish that complements any home decor. Overall, the Edifier R1280T Powered Bookshelf Speakers are a great option for anyone looking for affordable and high-quality speakers to enhance their audio experience.
Building Your Collection
Now for the exciting part: collecting vinyl! There are many places where you can buy vinyl records, from online marketplaces like Amazon and Urban Outfitters to your favorite online record shop Loudhouse Vinyl. However, I highly recommend supporting your local record stores, as they often have a wider selection of vinyl records and knowledgeable staff who can help you find the perfect record for your collection.
To find local record stores near you, simply type "record shops near me" into a search engine like Google. You may be surprised at how many great record stores are just a short drive away.
One of the things that makes collecting vinyl records so special is that each record has a unique history. Used records have been in the hands of many different people over time, and they each have their own story to tell. When you add a used record to your collection, you become a part of that story, and you help to keep the record alive for future generations.
When building your collection, you can start by looking for albums from your favorite artists or genres, or you can explore new music that you may not have discovered before. You may also want to keep an eye out for limited edition releases, rare records, or special editions that are only available for a short time.
Organizing your record collection can be as simple or as complex as you want it to be. You can organize your records alphabetically, by genre, by year, or by any other system that works for you. Many collectors also enjoy displaying their records on shelves or in a dedicated record room.
No matter how you choose to build and organize your vinyl record collection, the most important thing is to have fun and enjoy the music!