How to Buy Vinyl Online
Vinyl records have made a comeback, and buying them online gives you access to a much wider selection than most physical stores. Here's what you need to know.
Where to Buy
Discogs is the gold standard for vinyl collectors. It's a marketplace where sellers list their inventory with detailed condition information. You can find everything from brand new releases to rare pressings from decades ago.
Amazon has a large selection of new vinyl with fast shipping. Good for current releases but limited for used or rare records.
Independent record stores often have online shops. You'll get curated selections and support smaller businesses.
Artist websites sometimes sell exclusive variants directly, which is a great way to support musicians.
Understanding Condition
Used vinyl is graded on a standard scale:
- Mint (M): Unplayed, perfect condition
- Near Mint (NM): Excellent condition, barely any wear
- Very Good Plus (VG+): Light wear but plays well
- Very Good (VG): Noticeable wear, may have light surface noise
For used records, NM or VG+ are your best bets for good sound quality.
What to Look For
Pressing information matters. Original pressings can sound different from reissues. Audiophile reissues often offer better sound quality than standard represses. Check reviews from other vinyl enthusiasts if you're unsure.
Shipping is crucial. Make sure the seller uses proper packaging - records should be shipped outside their jackets to prevent seam splits, with extra cardboard for protection. Good sellers specify their packaging methods.
Pricing
New vinyl typically runs $25-40 for standard releases. Used records vary wildly depending on rarity and condition. Don't overpay just because something is "vintage" - many older records are common and inexpensive.
Compare prices across platforms before buying, but remember the cheapest option isn't always best if shipping or packaging is inadequate.
Red Flags
Avoid sellers who:
- Don't provide clear photos or condition descriptions
- Have consistently negative reviews
- Don't specify their shipping methods
- Offer no returns on expensive items
Take your time, read seller reviews, and don't rush into expensive purchases. The vinyl you want will usually be available from multiple sellers.