How To Build A Record Collection On A Budget

Before you start building your record collection, you may be left wondering how much does a vinyl cost.

04:33 27 May 2023

Before you start building your record collection, you may be left wondering how much does a vinyl cost. Now that vinyl records have become more en vogue, you can try to build your own collection. These records will be aesthetically pleasing, both in and out of the cover so it should be worth it. However, if you are worried about the cost then read on to find out how to build a record collection on a budget.

Start With Some Bargains

At the start of your record-collecting journey, you may simply want some vinyl to act as a base to build on. In some cases, these will be records in a bargain bin, some of which come with a $1 price tag. For just a few bucks, you can come away with literally stacks of records, and from there, your collection can begin. 

Be Careful With The Record And Its Condition

While your first few records may be worryingly cheap, you should check the condition of each one. Scratched records will not just sound awful, they could cause some damage to your turntable. The vinyl record itself may even be falsely advertised and you may struggle to take it back. This is easily done in person yet if you are buying online, only buy from a trusted source so check the reviews.

 

Avoid The Latest Pressings

You should be able to find some dated vinyl records that are still in good condition. In some cases, you can find the latest pressing of a classic album. However, be wary that the recording studio may not own the original pressing. That can be disappointing and no manner of modern packaging can make up for it.

Buy Your Favorite Records

To get your record collection up and running, you should buy some records that you know you already love. You may already own your favorite records on different formats yet having it to hold can make a difference. Not only is it simply a larger format but the artwork looks more impressive. 

Visit Thrift Stores

One ideal place to find records that can build up your collection on a budget is the humble thrift store. One man’s garbage is another man’s treasure and you can while away the afternoon. Find a few local thrift stores and simply thumb through the offerings. You might find a few classic albums for a bargain price, and in good condition too.

Find Out About Estate Sale Auctions

While thrift stores are important places for vinyl record shopping, so are estate sale auctions. Perhaps someone local has died and not decided where their extensive vinyl collection should go. If the estate wants to make a few quick bucks then head to the auction. Check the listings and you may be able to source a few classic records and you would be helping out.

Consider Whole Collections

You can simply buy someone else’s record collection and have it as your own. This can save you a lot of time and expense trying to piece together your collection from individual records. The average price of each individual record should also be cheaper. If you are keen on landing a few choice wanted records in one fell swoop then consider buying the entire collection. 

Use Social Media 

In some cases, an individual may forget that they have a record and realize that they have not played it in years. If you can use social media effectively, you can get a message out that you are on the lookout for certain records. Should someone want to clear out their house, they may be willing to offload that record at a bargain price. Again, one man’s garbage…

Do Not Be Afraid To Haggle

As with any in-person transaction, always be prepared to strike a bargain. You may have a certain price in mind for a record that is below the asking price. Work up a conversation with the seller and maybe highlight that you are building your collection. If you are lucky, you could get the record inside your budget by knocking a few bucks off. 

Summary 

Building a record collection on a budget can be tricky as some vinyl records can be so expensive. Avoid heading into reputable record shops as they may only stock reissues and new records. Instead, be clever and go to thrift stores and estate sale auctions in the search for bargains. Try to be personable too by using social media and striking up a conversation with the individual seller.