Face it; vinyl is still famous for musical content. They have been around since 1930, don’t need an extremely complex device to play them, and can be worth more than an 8-track, cassette, or cd with the same recorded content. Some significant drawbacks include warped, scratched, or cue-burned records that can render them useless. Like anything in life, that is valuable has to be well-taken care of.
When DVS (Digital Vinyl Systems) and CD/MP3 professional players hit the scene in the early 2000s, they proved to be fierce competitors to record companies. Crate digging and purchasing “doubles” became harder due to reduced production or purest buying more copies.
Despite the disadvantages, it’s never too late to start your collection. Below are a few tips to help you get started:
- Buy the albums or singles of songs you listen to. Refrain from buying vinyl just because it’s popular.
- Hold or Increase Value – Don’t be tempted to open if sealed unless you can obtain the acapella or instrumental if you have encountered a rare pressing.
- Properly store them on a shelf, or place them in a display case.
- If you are purchasing for a DJ routine practice with DVS, a controller, or CDJ style player to prevent unnecessary wear.
- Purchase from reputable sellers who verified playability.
Discover Discogs or eBay if you are ready to start building your collection. I have found some of my favorite albums for reasonable prices. Also, check the artist’s website because they may have released limited copies. If all else fails, locate your nearest “record store” and start digging. The joy of finding that copy of ____________ (fill in the blank) is priceless.