Vinyl records have made a remarkable comeback in recent years, appealing to both nostalgic audiophiles and new generations of music lovers. I have been running vinyl record shops since 2000, first at Lotus Land Records (Milwaukee) and now with We Buy Records (locations in Milwaukee and Chicago). Whether you're just starting your vinyl collection or looking to sell records, finding the best vinyl record store near you is crucial. This guide will walk you through the steps to discover the perfect shop to meet your needs, whether you're buying or selling!

Understanding Your Vinyl Record Needs

Before you embark on the search for the best vinyl record store, it's essential to understand what you're looking for. Are you a beginner seeking to start a collection, or are you a seasoned collector looking to offload some rare finds? Your needs will dictate the type of store that will best suit you.

For Beginners: Starting a Collection

If you're new to vinyl collecting, you'll need a store with a good selection of starter albums, knowledgeable staff, and a welcoming atmosphere. Look for stores that offer a range of genres and are willing to help you learn about the different aspects of vinyl records, from pressing quality to turntable maintenance. Many of the classics in any genre are widely available for $5-20 (used) or $20-40 (new reissues) per LP.

For Sellers: Offloading Your Collection

Sellers should seek out stores known for fair pricing and good customer service. You want a shop that appreciates the value of your records and offers a straightforward selling process. Ideally, find a store with a solid reputation among collectors for buying rare and valuable records. You can vet these store by checking user reviews on Google, Yelp, and local vinyl collection Facebook groups.

Researching Vinyl Record Stores

Once you've identified your needs, the next step is to research potential vinyl record stores. Here are some effective strategies:

Online Research

1. Search Engines: Use search engines to find record stores in your area. Phrases like "vinyl record store near me" or "best record stores in [your city]" can yield useful results.

2. Online Reviews: Websites like Yelp, Google Reviews, and TripAdvisor can provide insights into customer experiences. Look for stores with high ratings and read the reviews to understand why they stand out.

3. Social Media: Platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter are great for discovering local record stores. Many shops post updates about new arrivals, sales, and events.

Community Recommendations

1. Local Forums or Social Media Groups: Join local music or vinyl enthusiast groups on platforms like Reddit, Facebook, or dedicated vinyl forums. Members often share their favorite stores and personal experiences.

2. Word of Mouth: Ask friends, family, or coworkers who are into vinyl. Personal recommendations can often lead you to hidden gems.

Visiting Stores

1. Store Visits: Visiting stores in person is the best way to gauge their inventory and atmosphere. Take note of the store's layout, organization, and how the staff interacts with customers.

2. Events and Sales: Attend events like Record Store Day, special sales, or in-store performances. These events can provide a good sense of a store's community involvement and customer service.

Evaluating Vinyl Record Stores

When you've identified a few potential stores, it's time to evaluate them based on specific criteria to ensure they meet your needs.

Inventory and Selection

1. Variety: A good record store should have a diverse selection of genres and artists. Whether you’re into rock, jazz, classical, or hip-hop, the store should cater to various tastes.

2. New vs. Used: Consider if the store offers both new and used records. Used records can be a treasure trove for collectors looking for rare finds or budget-friendly options.

3. Condition and Quality: Check the condition of the records. A reputable store will grade their records accurately and provide a clear return policy for defective items.

Knowledgeable Staff

1. Expertise: Staff should be knowledgeable about vinyl records, from the history of different pressings to maintenance tips for your turntable.

2. Customer Service: Friendly and helpful staff can make a significant difference. They should be willing to assist you in finding specific records or offering recommendations based on your tastes.

Pricing

1. Fair Pricing: Compare prices between different stores to ensure you’re getting a fair deal. Be wary of stores with prices significantly higher or lower than the market average.

2. Buy and Sell Rates: If you’re selling, understand the store’s buy rates. Most shops buy at 30-40% of retail value for used records.

Community and Atmosphere

1. Store Ambiance: The atmosphere of a store can enhance your shopping experience. Look for a store with a welcoming, well-organized space that invites you to browse.

2. Community Engagement: Stores that host events, feature local artists, or have a strong social media presence often have a dedicated customer base and a sense of community.

Making the Most of Your Visit

Once you've found a store that seems promising, plan your visit to make the most of the experience. Check if they have an online catalog, as many shop will have a back room with records listed on their online shop. Many times these are available for in-store pick up as well, sometimes at a discount!

Tips for Buyers

1. Have a Dig! Be open to discovering new music.

2. Inspect Records: Examine the condition of the vinyl and cover. Look for scratches, warps, or other signs of damage.

3. Ask Questions: Don’t hesitate to ask the staff for recommendations or information about a specific record.

Tips for Sellers

1. Do not clean your records unless you are an expert! You may make them worse. If they are extremely damaged with water/mold/etc, they probably are not worth bringing in.

2. Bring ALL of your records! If it is too large to bring, many shops will offer house calls.

3. Ask to be included in the thought process behind the valuations of your records.

Expanding Your Search

1. Specialty Stores: Some online stores specialize in particular genres or rare records. These can be great resources for finding unique items.

2. Record Fairs: These events gather multiple sellers in one place, offering a broad selection of records. They are excellent opportunities to find rare records and meet fellow collectors.

3. Conventions: Music conventions often feature vinyl vendors along with other music-related merchandise. These can be a goldmine for serious collectors.

Conclusion

Finding the best vinyl record store near you, whether you're starting or selling a collection, involves a combination of research, evaluation, and personal preference. By understanding your needs, conducting thorough research, and evaluating potential stores based on inventory, staff knowledge, pricing, and community involvement, you can discover the perfect shop to satisfy your vinyl record interests.

If you have any other questions on this topic, feel free to message me and I’ll do my best to connect you with what you are looking for!

Andy Noble, owner, We Buy Records