Vinyls: Little plastic disks that have particular tiny grooves that make a sound as you drag a needle across them. Almost magical, aren't they? They even can create more sounds than regular music through Spotify or Apple Music. How? Vinyls capture the sound as close to how it was initially recorded. The shape of the minuscule grooves mimics the shape of the sound waves of the music.

As convenient as it is to stream music, digital has its disadvantages. It’s compressed, which means certain frequencies are removed to make the file smaller. That’s not to say the quality is bad, per se, it’s just different from what the artist intended, and there’s something special about knowing that you're listening to the artist’s vision of their song. What also makes vinyl special is the collector element. You get a physical copy to hold on to with unique album covers, and sometimes a colored vinyl.

Vinyl collecting isn't just about the music; it's about the experience. The act of flipping through crates at record stores, the tactile sensation of placing the needle on the groove, and the warm, analog sound quality create a nostalgic ambiance that digital formats simply can't replicate. Collectors are drawn to vinyl for its tangible appeal. Each record tells a story, from the album artwork to the scratches and imperfections that bear witness to its journey through time. It's not just about owning the music; it's about owning a piece of history.

This is probably why vinyl records have staged an unexpected comeback, capturing the hearts of music enthusiasts worldwide. Record sales in 2014 were the highest ever since 1993!¹ Another factor is probably the nostalgic element. Before streaming, vinyl was one of the only ways to listen to music. But now, what was once considered a relic of the past has become a cherished medium for experiencing music. In addition, vinyl collecting fosters a sense of community. Whether it's through local record swaps, online forums, or social media groups, enthusiasts come together to share their passion, swap stories, and discover new music. In a disconnected world, vinyl collecting offers a tangible connection to the music and fellow collectors.

So, has all this talk about record collecting piqued your interest? Well, there are a few things you might still be wondering. One of those is cost. A big reason why a lot of people who want to collect records don’t is because of the price. You have to consider whether you think the investment is worth it (for many enthusiasts it very much is). Most new records cost between $25-30, but rare ones can reach into the hundreds of dollars. However, if you know where to look, you can find used records for less than $5. Some stores even have a ¢99 section!

In addition, vinyl can be a bit of a responsibility. If you consider them an investment, you’re going to need to make sure the investment stays worthwhile. That means proper care and storage. We won’t go in-depth here, but there are a few things you should do.

To prevent warping, try to keep them out of heat. Also, it’s worth investing in a cleaning kit so you can get rid of dust without accidentally scratching the vinyl. Keeping your records safe makes listening more enjoyable, as you don’t have to deal with pesky scratches. In addition, well-kept records can sell for hundreds of dollars years later, which is part of the reason records are so special in the first place.

Despite the convenience of digital formats, vinyl continues to thrive, reminding us that the old ways are sometimes still the best. So, dust off your turntable, dig out those crates, and immerse yourself in the timeless art of vinyl collecting.