Building a record collection that’s the envy of audiophiles everywhere shouldn’t break the bank. Use our tips to find vinyl at budget-friendly prices.
To some music lovers, the cost factor is the only off-putting thing about building an incredible vinyl record collection. The good news is that you can curate the vinyl collection of your dreams without spending a fortune!
Where to Find Budget-Friendly Records
Here’s where to find budget-friendly records online and in person:
Charity Shops
Charity shops are often vinyl treasure troves in more ways than one. For starters, you never know what you’re going to find. Over time, you’re likely to see almost every genre of music known to humanity represented, as well as countless duplicates of 70s and 80s pop hits, obscure and long-gone bands, and highly collectible rare gems.
Secondly, charity shops often sell previously loved vinyl at unbeatable prices. With many records priced significantly lower than at specialised stores, it’s a great opportunity to build your collection on a budget while supporting a good cause.
Car Boot Sales
You also have a good chance of finding budget-friendly vinyl records at car boot sales and estate sales. Many sellers at car boot sales are more interested in decluttering than making a profit, so they’re happy to sell records at great prices. You’ll often find full collections at these sales that people are clearing out, and if you’re lucky, you may even find limited releases or other gems.
These sales can also be a great way to strike up conversations with other collectors, who might share tips on where to find more hidden treasures.
Independent Record Shops
While some vinyl available at independent record shops comes at high prices, you can find records at budget-friendly prices in bargain bins, during sales, and on special discount days. Spend some time exploring independent shops like Dig In Records, which is known for its diverse selection at various price points. You’re sure to be surprised by what you find and how little you pay for records that you love.
Plus, you can join their loyalty program, where you earn points for every record that you buy. This gives you the opportunity to save money on future purchases both online and in-store.
Trading with Other Collectors
If you have any records you’re happy to part with, consider trading them with other collectors. Check community noticeboards and Facebook groups for record swaps, listening parties, vinyl meet-ups, and other events to find other collectors interested in trading records in your area.
As vinyl is surging in popularity, these types of meet-ups are becoming more common, and they’re a great opportunity to network with other vinyl enthusiasts and find out more about where to get good deals.
Online Marketplaces
You can find records at great prices at online marketplaces such as Discogs, eBay, and Amazon. These sites generally let you use filters to find vinyl by price and condition from sellers around the world. Plus, they often allow you to set up alerts or a wishlist, so you’ll get notified when there’s a record you want at a price that’s within your budget.
Many independent artists also offer exclusive vinyl releases on Bandcamp, providing a unique opportunity to support up-and-coming talent. Additionally, these platforms often feature user reviews, which can help you find albums in the best possible condition at budget prices.
Embrace the Thrill of the Hunt
Few things are more satisfying than adding new records to your collection, especially when you’ve paid bargain prices. Embrace the thrill of the hunt by visiting charity shops, car boot sales, estate sales, Dig In Records and other shops, record swaps, and online marketplaces, and watch your collection grow without breaking the bank. A world of budget-friendly vinyl awaits!