If you had bought a first pressing of Led Zeppelin’s debut album in 1969 with turquoise sleeve lettering and Superhype Music/Jewel Music Publishing credits labels, congratulations: that record is now worth over £1000. Is vinyl a good investment? It really depends. (Image credit: Jim Davis/The Boston Globe - Getty) Cheap vinyl records: Investing in vinyl If you prefer to buy second-hand, the biggest online marketplace for vinyl is Discogs, a specialist online marketplace for record dealers and individuals which lists every version of every record you can imagine. Buying records from these outlets supports the high street. While not “independent” in the same way, let’s not forget the HMV chain either. There are many excellent independent stores, including Rough Trade, Brighton’s Resident Records, Manchester’s Piccadilly Records, Glasgow's Monorail Music, Southend’s South Records and Totnes’ Drift Records. Independent Record Stores: You may prefer to support independent record shops who also sell vinyl online. Generalist Internet Retailers: Well-known names such as Amazon who are efficient and offer back up should things go wrong. These vendors often have access to exclusive signed or limited editions. Online Vinyl Specialists: Generally outlets run by large record companies. Where should I buy vinyl records online?ĭeciding the best places to buy records depends on whether you are buying new or second-hand vinyl. When buying new, the main players in the market are as follows:Īrtist’s Own Store: What better way of supporting your favourite artists than buying (often exclusive) releases directly from their website, especially if they are an up and coming band?

However, despite such challenges the convenience of buying online is indisputable, so here are some tips to make your online experience more successful. It’s tougher to smuggle records in the house without your partner noticing when buying online, especially when the postman asks you to sign for huge record-shaped parcels every day. There are also intangible things you may miss from not visiting your local record shop – new music tips, the chance to dig through bargain bins or crates marked “New Arrivals” before anyone else. No one need ever know you collect both Slayer and Westlife records.ĭisadvantages include additional postage costs, risk of damage from poor packaging or rogue couriers apparently training for national frisbee tournaments. The advantages of buying records online are many. Victrola | Dive into a world of music in their vinyl storeĬheap vinyl records: Buying advice What to look for when buying cheap vinyl records online.Walmart | Everything from new records to headphones.EMP | Records, t-shirts, accessories and more.The Sound Of Vinyl | Limited editions and new releases.Townsend music | Vinyl, bundle packs and more.Cheap vinyl records: More deals The latest vinyl deals and more (UK)

Albums for sale