Can I Still Afford To Be a Record Collector? Adapting With the Times

In this video i discuss my rambling thoughts (though i did actually think about this some) on how expensive the hobby is becoming and how i am adapting so i can continue to enjoy it. Lets call it personal growth. Sometimes we have to rethink why we do something and what brings us the most enjoyment in life.
Please check out my podcast- Two Guys Talking About Records with Jim Gleason It can be found on spotify, iheart, podbean and YT ‪@RadioWastelandRecords‬
You can contact me at [e-mail] or instagram stevecarlson925
#recordcollecting #vinylcommunity #vinylrecords #vinylfinds #adaptingtochange #hobby

[@chewableorb1125]

A couple of years ago I was an avid buyer of records. I paid alot of attention to the VC and what new recording was the latest and greatest. Then I had an epiphany, I was listening to a Record Store Day jazz album that sounded like complete garbage and I asked myself “Is this worth it”. Since that day I have stopped collecting records, I started finding cd’s to be a better medium for me to collect. I found the same excitement in finding an obscure title in the wild and paid 1/30 of the price. To each their own but for me in the back of my mind I always feel good about keeping my hobbies a low cost affair.

[@stevecarlsonvinylcommunity9147]

What a great example and good for you. CDs definitely allow you to explore cheaply more music and create a huge library of music. I’m happy for your epiphany. RSD can still be dangerous but I have cut way back on it. It came down to this, how often do I replay a RSD album. Do you hear the crickets chirping lol.

[@mandomtz]

that;s folly of "influencer" culture that youtube VC breeds. It's just an unhealthy masturbatory cycle of monkey see, monkey do fomo consumerism. Ignore the influencers and buy shit you can afford that looks interesting to you.

[@davidlg0478]

Great video Steve. I totally agree with you. FOMO is dying out, prices are through the roof, especially here in Europe. I retired a couple of years ago, I have pulled back from buying these audiophile records in particular. 45RPM records ruin the flow as the artist intended ,in my opinion. I am being much more selective these days, I might go a couple of weeks without buying any records. Really enjoy your channel.

[@stevecarlsonvinylcommunity9147]

David, I hope to retire next year and I have pulled back also Great point on 45 RPM ruining the flow. I truly believe it’s just a cash grab. I need to get back to just buying for the joy of music

[@vinylmartini3377]

Hey Steve, very good discussion. It’s very rare for me to buy a new record or reissue, mainly because of the price. I basically collect records the way you used to, bargain bins buying smaller collections at a good price. Someone just told me about a neighbour who is looking to get rid of their collection. The addict in me is very excited, but it might mean another trip to IKEA for more shelves 😂😂. Cheers.

[@stevecarlsonvinylcommunity9147]

Jack, all of Sweden thanks you for your support of IKEA haha. Nothing wrong with buying up collections. The key is the joy you get no matter how you collect. That keeps our passion fired up

[@northcarolinavinylpicker]

More Steve on Tuesday. Always a joy. Coffee and Steve . The way I collect is 90% old vinyl 5-8$ . I seldom buy new albums there high . Have a nice day

[@stevecarlsonvinylcommunity9147]

You are very good at keeping to your limit, much better than I am Art

[@ChrisPropfeMusicallyObsessed]

Great thoughts, Steve. I’ve changed the way I collect over the last couple of years. I used to buy a lot of the albums that people showed in the VC only to find I didn’t like them as much as I thought I would. I used to also buy used albums from the bargain bins to find that they had marks and scuffs on the vinyl and that started to annoy me. I’ve purged quite a bit because of this. Now I buy mostly sealed albums and used only in NM condition …and I’m getting better at only buying albums I REALLY want. It’s tough though. Lol. It’s an addiction. I’m getting better though. I’m trying to focus on quality.

[@stevecarlsonvinylcommunity9147]

Chris is is so tough isn’t it. You really went down the right road in my opinion. Temptation is real for vinyl addicts. I still have this love of a blind buy but I have stopped with the audiophile and a lot of jazz. I still love Miles Davis and a few others but otherwise unless it’s on clearance I move on. I just sat and thought what do I like to play and then concentrated on that. I have spent a lot less Thanks for taking time to watch and comment Chris

[@MelindaMurphy]

I agree that the originals are very cool. I also love the audiophile records and all of these great reissues. Oh my! 😳 This is a very expensive hobby these days. I also have all but given up on finding great records at antique stores. I still find something every once in a while but I find it's not worth my time to dig through what they have. I keep saying it's time to slow down but it's easier said than done. Thank you for the video. I appreciate your honesty. 😀

[@stevecarlsonvinylcommunity9147]

Thanks for taking time to watch. I have been frustrated with some of the prices but that is just part of something that becomes popular. I have also cut back but then today I went to a new store and fell off the wagon again lol. As you said Melinda, easier said then done lol

[@vikingbrace]

Wait…I thought watching YOUR channel is what guaranteed a pass to heaven and an out of body experience?! Good video and this seems to be a trend. I don’t buy for quantity anymore and I buy new releases on cd if the vinyl is too crazy. Buying used records that are in good shape is still my favorite thing to do.

[@stevecarlsonvinylcommunity9147]

I agree with buying great used records. I love finding originals and that is what still excites me. A lot of people seem to be buying new music on CD, great way to not miss out on enjoying something and they don’t come in 45 Rpm lol. Can’t believe you did not have an out of body experience haha

[@spindoctorandhisvinylmayhem]

Oh Steve, I think I’ve been through every stage of record collecting probably more then once. It’s so hard because there is so much out there, the content from the VC that gets into your head telling you what you should buy and then of course you just go into the record store and see so much stuff for yourself! The internet is a dangerous place because you can learn and find so many new things, so I keep going back and forth and what stage am I at with my collecting but I need to be at the save my money so my wife doesn’t kill me stage lol.

[@stevecarlsonvinylcommunity9147]

The spouse syndrome Kendall. Don’t cross that line. I am too impulsive, I’m trying to do better but I still got a long ways to go Kendall

[@robison5396]

The crazy world of record collecting!!. I don't think it's ever been a cheap hobby..I had a lot less money to spend as a teenager when I started but now records are comparatively more expensive, so it's all relative I guess. So glad I haven't fallen down the audiophile rabbit hole, I think that would be the beginning of the end for me..not just for the cost, but the fact that the listening experience would then become more about the sound as opposed to the actual music, which is crazy when I think about it. You're absolutely on the money Steve regarding KZbin..the VC has cost me a fortune over the past 5 years or so, but has also introduced me to music that, without it, I may have never discovered. Great discussion. 👍

[@stevecarlsonvinylcommunity9147]

Rob, the amount of great music that I have been introduced to is amazing. If I had more self control that would be a real plus but alas. I have really walked away from the audiophile albums, it is wasted on me and creates no real joy. I did buy two more albums this week thanks to the VC, sigh

[@peterrech2307]

Hi Steve, absolutely agree with you, it is getting harder to be a record collector. Cost of records is getting higher and higher, the cost of living is skyrocketing, the records I want are getting harder to find and more expensive. Ah well its life, I will still collect what I want but will also spend more time listening to what I already have, then decide what to sell off and what to keep......Enjoy the music.

[@stevecarlsonvinylcommunity9147]

Peter, you made a great point of sell off what you don’t need or will listen to. I use to be terrible at that but now I’m getting better at it. Still have a ways to go but it’s getting easier. Need to get back to the joy of music

[@n0s0luti0n]

There is a lot to think about in this video. I used to go for quantity as well, the "look at all this stuff" feeling that you mentioned. The space is running out and I'm realizing how much I have that I never listen to. It is hard to pass up bargains (in fact, I fell off the wagon a bit this weekend, haha) but I'm trying to be more aware of if I'm buying something because I really want it or because it is cheap. Great video, Steve!

[@stevecarlsonvinylcommunity9147]

Thank you for watching and the great comment. Falling off the wagon, happens to me all the time. I do real well and then suddenly temptation bites. Not sure if I will ever get to retire lol

[@ShamrocknRecords]

Great video Steve. I often go through the same thoughts on why I want a record. I want records that I love to listen to and will also be valuable. It makes the hobby fun in a way. The little things that make me a all tick. So weird. Cheers, Brian☘️

[@stevecarlsonvinylcommunity9147]

Brian, I love a valuable record I just think at times for me it takes over with what I buy and I get something I really didn’t need but I bought for value. I’m trying to step away from that more. Still to see a price jump up always makes you smile

[@primeanalogrecords]

Wonderful rant Steve! Wish more would show their personalities like this! I’ll try to do one like this too!😂

[@stevecarlsonvinylcommunity9147]

Lol Matt. Thank you. I try to not rant but just to be honest but also to make a point it doesn’t matter how you collect as long as you are happy.

[@VinylPotato]

Well said Steve. I am being a lot more selective about the vinyl I buy. I've also been buying a lot more CDs. Great prices on those.

[@stevecarlsonvinylcommunity9147]

Will, so many have mentioned they are moving towards CDs. Let’s hope that doesn’t start to spike up those prices.

[@RecordKrate]

I’ve always told my customers not to collect records, but build a listening library…

[@MrsFish7]

..trouble is that the listening library in these times is already built.. and it's called Spotify..

[@stevecarlsonvinylcommunity9147]

Good point, discogs really made many of us go more collecting. It was easier then using the Goldmine book I use to have!

[@stevecarlsonvinylcommunity9147]

Very interesting thought. My youngest son would agree, I am still into physical media but should use Spotify more to be more selective

[@RecordKrate]

@@MrsFish7 it’s hard to enjoy the album covers and read the liner notes on spottyfi…

[@highrantdistrict]

That was very thoughtful, Steve. A few months ago I went to a local record store to return a $58 defective new vinyl release. Instead of getting another high-priced record, I walked out with a fat stack of CDs. It was so much more fun than leaving with one recording on wax. I'm always re-evaluating my music collecting habits. For the most part, if there is a new-release album I want to own, I buy it on CD due to both cost and the notion that it's a digital recording so having it on a digital format makes sense. When I want an older recording, I usually go for it on vinyl. I agree with you in that anyone should do what makes sense for them. I do think, quite often, about ditching my records due to the cost of the hobby now, and going higher end on my digital gear so as to make CDs as enjoyalble - sound-wise - as records. It was funny to hear you talk about baseball cards, because right when hockey cards went off the rails with Upper Deck coming into the market and causing prices to explode, that pushed me out of the hobby. It stopped being fun. Records have been going in that direction for me for a while now. Good conversation. Cheers, Tom

[@stevecarlsonvinylcommunity9147]

Tom thanks for watching. Trading cards is the perfect comparison to what we are experiencing in vinyl. I have talked to a few shop owners who have gotten much more into selling CDs. I am sticking to vinyl but the high end albums are rare. If I’m going to buy something that costs a lot I’m going to go with a collectible OG that really means something to me. Nothing wrong with going the CD route. Eventually they will catch on to that and those prices will jump back up.

[@YoungLPLovers]

I feel ya! I’ve only been collecting for a few years and I’m constantly trying to rein my spending in. As the prices of everything else also rise, something’s gotta give! Thanks for sharing your thoughts.

[@stevecarlsonvinylcommunity9147]

I really feel for you new collectors as it causes you to miss some great Music on vinyl. Sure you can download it or buy a cd but it is not quite the same. I have had to rebuild my collection the last 3 years and it has been a shock to my system. I have cut back and steer generally away from all the overpriced but cool looking albums. Thanks for taking time to watch

[@memyselfmyvinyl894]

Great video Steve. I have struggled with the type of collector I am. Its changed over the past 5-10 years. When first starting out it was get what I can. I was also buying used cds by the stack. Then starting to look at condition. Then it shifted to "how collectable is this release?" Now I'm more looking into getting OG pressings. With each shift, the prices are increasing. I have had to take a step back from buying because it truly was killing my wallet. It's to the point where I need to start offloading these "collectable" titles and the stuff I dont listen to because it just is taking up space and if I'm being honest, cash in on the collectability. I think you put it well that "this is nice (Stevie Ray Vaughn) but THIS put a smile on my face (Misfits)." I want more quality in my collection rather than quantity.

[@stevecarlsonvinylcommunity9147]

Thank you Kevin for watching and sharing your thoughts. Kind of funny but collecting can be a journey as we try to find our lane on how we want to collect. I also have weeded out some albums but mostly to make room for something else lol.

[@MortenAastad]

Hard not to agree with most of that. Things going ahead in my own life really should tell me to be happy with what I have, still hard from the joy it brings and nice newfound VC people, like yourself, showing really interesting and, to me, unknown music like that Portugal the Man you played the other day. Hard also when it inspires creativity, like that of making KZbin videos. Thansk for sharing your thoughts Steve 😊

[@stevecarlsonvinylcommunity9147]

Thanks for watching Morten. vC is all about temptation. I just got in 3 albums inspired by the VC that I would have never known about

[@BD_MEDIA.]

Hello Steve! I've seen a lot of young people selling their records off in masses at the records shop that I frequently go to (well, I shouldn't say frequently....prices...!) 😳You have a good point, i.e.,I have been going through looking for music on CDs again for the affordability 😅! Thank you for validation of my choice of putting music FIRST again😊!

[@stevecarlsonvinylcommunity9147]

I have seen the exact same thing at my local store, high school and college kids selling off their collections. Good for you with the CDs, we do this because we love music and CDs allow you to still find that enjoyment. Well said.

[@ConglomerationCat]

Great video Steve! Im 51 now and I honestly have stopped collecting for the most part. I will get a couple or a few that are completely worth it but I've got over 300 and it's my goldmine that i could never part with. Prices are getting really steap. Ive reached a point where I feel my hobby is dried up, I'll go back to my library and realize that I have my own record store now. I can sit down on my living room floor and go through my collection. It reignited my joy of the hunt and the journey of what I have and own.

[@stevecarlsonvinylcommunity9147]

What a great comment. Someone else also mentioned they have 500 albums and need no more, they are happy I think that is great when someone can say, I am content with what I have. I wish I could do that but alas no. I have gotten to the point where I can let go of albums I don’t listen to much. Thank you for watching and commenting

[@ConglomerationCat]

@@stevecarlsonvinylcommunity9147 Absolutely Steve! Good to hear from you.

[@retromusings]

Thank you for this excellent video. I decided to not buy any more vinyl (since May) and focus on enjoying the records I already have. Never been an audiophile or collector for investment. My local record shop owner gave me the best advice ever- "There's nothing wrong with knowing what lane you're in and staying in that lane". Never felt the need to buy any brand new box sets, re-issues, MOFI and 45 rpm re-issues.

[@stevecarlsonvinylcommunity9147]

I think that is wonderful and a few others have said that also, enjoy what you have. The more we buy the less we listen. We are just spinning the newest music and what we have just sits there. That is what happens to me. I am slowing down but it’s not easy. The prices do make it easier though to do that. I hope to still see some video from you as you have such a calm style

[@jeffhottman8572]

This video is brilliant Steve an excellent look at the collecting one thing that needs to be stressed though for all do not I repeat, do not put your purchases on a credit card. If you don’t have the cash to buy or the money in the bank, take a break, save up and then jump in.

[@stevecarlsonvinylcommunity9147]

Very good point Jeff. A credit card makes it too easy to spend too much. Thank you for taking time to watch this Jeff

[@sjbang5764]

This is one of the coolest., most honest videos I've watched in a long time. Record collecting can be/is expensive, so much so that's it's gotten to be point of being stupid. It's like record manufacturers saw the vinyl community coming (a sucker born every minute?) and decided to jack prices up until the consumer bleeds. Of course, local shops soon followed the gouge trend. Oh well, let's hear it for greed. Again, lovely video, Steve. By the way, back when I began buying vinyl records, in the stone age, the average price was around $4.00. Of course, $4.00 in 1964 is like $38.42 now, according to an online inflation calculator, so maybe the prices are indeed in line, I don't know, but they sure seem high.

[@stevecarlsonvinylcommunity9147]

I love it, an inflation tracker. That is a wonderful point I had heard that before also with vinyl. Now candy bar prices. Put that in your inflation tracker. I’m glad you enjoyed it. Been thinking about this for awhile and finally got upset with another 45 rpm album. I appreciate you watching and commenting

[@louismartinez7387]

I'm with you Steve for me it's all about the music now!! I'm finding that I only have so much time to listen, so I gotta be selective, and if I invest, it's gotta be something that I know I'll truly listen to. I have albums in my collection that I've had since the late seventies and eighties that I've never listened to (unbelievable but true!!). I decided that it's time to enjoy what I already have and put a hold on new purchases...FOMO no longer exists for me!!

[@stevecarlsonvinylcommunity9147]

Louis well put. I need to be more selective with my purchases. Since I started over I have listened to everything but now I find many albums have not seen the light of day in a couple of years. I need to to keep purging some of these albums

[@louismartinez7387]

@stevecarlsonvinylcommunity9147 I hear you Steve.

[@cosmicvinyl2937]

Hey Steve! This is a thought that I’ve had for the last few months ! When the wife and I were struggling a bit with her being off work with her 2 surgeries I started re-evaluating my record buying. I stopped buying albums for around 3 months or so When I started looking again I was like cmon this is ridiculous! I mean even for average albums tbe prices are insane! $30 for just a common album? I’m just not gonna do it anymore! But I also know if I’m patient and I dig deep I can find deals on music that I like! But I refuse to keep feeding the machine that is taking advantage of us And it’s gonna get worse because we will keep buying records at high prices! Not me Not any more I have enough albums to listen to music for the rest of my life! Haha! Great thoughts Steve!

[@stevecarlsonvinylcommunity9147]

Well done Brian. I have seen you have changed up your videos to talk more about what you have within a certain theme. You have done a great job with doing that. I have cut way back but still fall off the wagon like today when I visited a new record store. I hope your wife is doing better, tough time for sure especially after you had recently moved down there. Keep doing what your doing and truly enjoy what you have Brian

[@andreondine9256]

Great video Steve. I always like your videos and your approach to the VC. It’s the best. I’m from Portugal. Most of my collection has to be ordered online, which is impossible these days. The cost of vinyl, with the cost of postage and the customs fees make record collecting a luxury habit that I can’t afford. I find myself going back to my old jazz and minutemen/ Luna/velvets/big star/Beach boys records and I’m happy with it. I find myself watching less and less vc channels (not yours😃) because sometimes it’s overwhelming and it’s massive. Music seems to occupy a marginal place and collectibility is taking its place becoming a habit for rich lucky consumers, which unfortunately is not my case.

[@stevecarlsonvinylcommunity9147]

What an awesome comment Andre. First, Portugal is a country that I hope to visit someday So many interesting things to see there. Sorry about vinyl prices, that really is sad. Now the fact that you got Luna, VU and Big Star albums You have a great collection. It is sad that for many it has become about collectibility and not the music. Thanks for the kind words and for watching my channel and commenting

[@vergevinyl]

Hi Steve I really connected with your video and you made some good points exactly how I’m feeling as well. Thought it was one of your best videos !

[@stevecarlsonvinylcommunity9147]

Thank you, that means a lot. I was not sure how this would come out but the best video come from your heart.

[@CornboneStudios]

I avoid audiophile, box sets and most Jazz as to not go down that rabbit hole. If I do decide to get one of those I try and listen to it first online which is wonderful that we can do that now. I try and think over if I’m going to spin it often which helps me decide if I’m going to spend. That cool factor is a tough one. If it’s on cool color wax with trinkets it can be tough not to get tempted. 45 rpm I agree is mostly not fun if you actually play them. Thanks Steve! Your channel is a big enjoyment for me. I too have an og walk among us gifted to me back in the day from a childhood friend. So many records remind me of old friends and where I was at that time. Makes it tough to purge which I almost never get around to but I should…. Keeps it interesting. Take Care. Love to you and your family. God Bless You All

[@stevecarlsonvinylcommunity9147]

Scoocher always a pleasure to hear from you and thank you for the kind words. You are very smart to take some time before making a purchase. I do shake my head when I look at albums that I have not played in a few years. I use to never be able to get rid of them but I have gotten better at it but it’s still a work in progress lol. Always good to reassess how we do things

[@stevebender4546]

Steve, I only get the records to listen to the music on that format. I think I gotta go back to just CDs and maybe used records only. I’ve always loved buying newer releases used because someone else didn’t like it. I’ve never considered myself a record collector. I’m slowing way down for sure. Peace ☮️ Namaste 🙏 the Zonkman

[@stevecarlsonvinylcommunity9147]

Zonkman, even I have shown down, I just have a backlog to show lol. I am spending a lot less each week and try to keep most my purchases at my local shop to support him. Many people are switching to CDs to get the music they want

[@vinyladdict9987]

Great Video Steve. Quality over quanity is how I'm collecting I too used to want a big collection. Now I minimize and there's a collectibilty factor but first and foremost it's the love of the music. I'm reversed on the whole just buy it , that's too expensive debate. I used to pass up records because of the price however if it's something rare and I don't see all the time or ever I will put back the 5 reissues and get that one OG sealed promo... I don't hesitate on my favorite artists but you inspired me to make a video regarding this... I recently made a video on a mofi of Rubber Soul and yes the channel is great to share with your viewers these records. And btw when I saw that NM beatles mofi it just appeared out of nowhere and what I was originally buying went to the wayside because I don't See that record in that shape, did it cost a pretty penny. Yes but I'm happy bout my purchase and no regrets

[@stevecarlsonvinylcommunity9147]

I am not subbed to your channel so I will remedy that. I am happy I have limited the space for my collection. It forces me to make decisions. Back before the flood I had some room tours. It was a massive amount of music but 99% got only a couple listens and was filed away for life. I am happier with this approach and finding something meaningful

[@rocky-o]

understand completely..back in the 60s and 70s, i had over 9000 albums..and they made me happy..i had the time and the money to enjoy...now, i'm on social security and have less than 1000 albums..and they still make me happy..i never bought records as an investment..just for the music..and i may not buy new albums or even expensive used albums anymore, but every once in a while, goodwill comes into good use...stay well my friend..peace and vinyl always..rocky

[@stevecarlsonvinylcommunity9147]

Good point Rocky it’s about having albums that truly bring you joy whether it be a UHQR or a goodwill album. Whatever makes you happy is what it is about

[@waxwiresnwaves]

Great video, concentrating on the music is a great approach. Envious of that Misfits, I just have the reissue!

[@stevecarlsonvinylcommunity9147]

That Misfitswas a very good deal from my local store, I’m kind of the town punk guy lol. We do need to remember why we started this in the first place don’t we. The more we make it about just the music the happier we are in my opinion

[@pc31thevinylpoliceman]

I agree with so much of that Steve, and you’ve also given me food for thought. On the subject of albums at 45rpm, I think it’s ridiculous. In fact the whole audiophile thing I personally struggle with. If we all had 18 year old hearing and £10,000 turntables then ok, audiophile us to death. The reality, me/us is that we have long lost high end and bass end frequencies in our hearing, they start to go in us all in our early twenties. Also, my sound system is relatively modest eg turntable worth about £500, so certainly not high end = I would get no benefit in a audiophile standard record! Let’s get real about this. An optimum album for me is a single album, 33.3 rpm, 10 to 12 tracks circa 35 to 40 mins. That for me is a classic album. CD length albums eg 60+ mins generally lose my interest unless they are exceptional eg London Calling. On the subject of what to buy eg og’s, reissues, boxsets etc. I think og’s are more rewarding collectibility and financially speaking. But reissues are fine for non-special albums ie you just want to play and enjoy. Boxsets are a whole different world. I personally love them and they give me immense pleasure, BUT, I will on buy them when they are my favourite artists or they are a very special classic album eg Who’s Next. Great discussion Steve (Hon.Mike), and I think I do need to become more selective in my buying habits. So no point in having that blood transfusion from me at present 😂 Mike (realone)

[@stevecarlsonvinylcommunity9147]

So true about hearing. I wear a single hearing aid. I use to get frustrated with long CDs. Groups knew they could add more music to them so they seemed to out in a lot of stuff that really was not worth it it. Totally agree about stereo equipment. If you can afford a super expensive system you can probably afford all the great audiophile albums which is great. I like my system and it works for me, nothing fancy but I’m happy. It all comes down to that, being happy. I have cut back. And yes you did get me to buy that PIL lol

[@mamabearvinyl]

Great video, Steve. You are spot on with your commentary. I love vinyl, but I’ve really cut back on buying also. Prices are crazy right now. Hopefully your able to find a OG copy of Last Splash. It’s a great album. I saw there was going to be a reissue. I’m a Foo Fighters fan. I recommend Wasting Light if you stumble across it. My favorite and it sonically sounds amazing. Happy Spinning.

[@stevecarlsonvinylcommunity9147]

That new Breeder issue is what pushed me over the edge, 3 LP 45 rpm , over $50. That is not right but if people buy it then they did the right thing, at least for the record company. I am trying to be smarter Cindy but I went to a new record store and left spending too much, but if was used. Thanks for dropping by

[@mrhoffame]

I agree with sooo much you have said here. The big thing I feel people are doing differently now is that is seems more people are now "Picking a lane". Use to be a time where people's wish list had mofi, OG, Reissues, box sets, etc and those things would randomly come in. Now it seems people are picking a lane a really sticking there to it to get the most "excitement" out of their purchase. Me for example. I made a decision to avoid the HQRs, Vinyl Me Please, Most of the one steps, and audiophile pressings. Japanese, Near Mint OGs, and White Label promos are my primary lane for any significant spending. I do think about new collectors all the time though because I couldn't IMAGINE trying to get into the hobby and starting from scratch now. It's insane!!

[@stevecarlsonvinylcommunity9147]

Brandon what a great point about finding your lane. I really bounced all over the place but now definitely have more focus primarily pocket book driven but willing to splurge for a more rare OG ( can you say Zamrock). Your Japanese pressings are killer and you got a channel to tune into to see them. I think I do the needle drops this Sunday on Airbourne, fun album

[@3dimensionsofmusic3D]

Brenda's always telling me my channel name sucks 😊. Me thinks she's correct 😜. You've plugged me so many times I should change music to sound 😊. I appreciate you buddy. I buy CDs for the music and value. Vinyl is still and always will be my first love, for the same reason as yourself. I just purchased the Beck Bogert and Appice box in vinyl instead of CD. It's pricey but I'm a Jeff Beck fan. I rationalize when I buy new vinyl to try and keep it under $30 a record , box set or not. RSD always kills that. The dreaded FOMO. I tried to convince Brenda to let me buy the $500 Ozzy box to resell later on. Too much up front tho for her liking. It's fetching 1500 - 2000 mint now! I probably would have opened it anyway 😅.

[@stevecarlsonvinylcommunity9147]

Wow, that is crazy with that Ozzy box set. That is where the collector comes in and it makes them very excited. I know I would be! I think things like that box set will get rarer since they seem to make so much of this expensive product. You got a great channel Greg and I’m proud to call you my friend

[@robwalkerletthemusicplay]

I’ve nothing to add to this excellent video Steve I just want you to know I agreed with everything you said .. there’s a lot worse things to do with your money than to buy records .. but I agree the vc is a dangerous place because it normalises our habit 😃

[@stevecarlsonvinylcommunity9147]

Like a drug the VC is. I do love the people I have met and friendships I have made. I spent my whole life collecting by myself. That is a lot cheaper but to get to know people like you Rod makes it all worthwhile

[@BluesGuyVinyl]

Hi Uncle Steve. I agree with your overall thoughts here. Every day I'm thankful that I enjoy older music as much as I do new tunes. This gives me a chance to continue buying the music I love without too much out of pocket. That said, the newer blues releases I'm interested in are getting very expensive. In my area, $30-$40 for a new LP is the norm. Luckily there are a few stores here that still have dollar or 2 dollar bins. The whole 45 rpm LP thing is frustrating to me as well. Why pay $50 for an album on 45 rpm that I could buy for $30 on 33 rpm? But, they often aren't pressed at both speeds, as you talked about. My ear is tuned to the scratchy old blues of the 20's through the 50's and 60's, so audiophile recordings don't really concern me, so I don't buy them. Thanks Unk. Cheers!

[@stevecarlsonvinylcommunity9147]

Lol, yes nephew, the snap crackle and pop is part of the old blues! It’s not an annoyance, it’s about giving you the true experience. Yes you stil find some deals. I was just at a store and the cheap bin is now $5. Crazy isn’t it. My local store still has a $1 room.

[@BluesGuyVinyl]

@@stevecarlsonvinylcommunity9147 a whole room of $1 records?! WOW!

[@twofromthetrunk9932]

I understand your frustration with thrifting. The prices have skyrocketed. Especially for items that have no over head for them. Plus I have begun to be pickier on the condition. I am trying a side hustle to pay for my habit. I but only buy the CDs I really want or doesn’t exist as vinyl. Will I stop, probably not. I just really like it.

[@stevecarlsonvinylcommunity9147]

Tony, as retirement is approaching I am thinking about a side hustle also to afford my habit. It is actually built into my retirement budget but a little part time job would make it easier

[@FatCityVinyl]

Nailed it Steve, they'll bring the 45 rpm edition out first then hit you with the 33 later on. Changing times definitely call for changing measures, like you say there are no rules about how to do this (or at least there shouldn't be), not sure I have a really consistent approach yet, operating more on case by case basis here these days but I am for sure buying less and really thinking about purchases more. Often times that impulse to order something fades if you hold off and think about it for a few days, then it's like, well look at that, did I really need or want that after all or was I just reacting. I did break down recently and bought 3 albums from VMP, they sent me a 40% off discount which I couldn't really pass up. Still expensive with the shipping and exchange rate but I guess I saved a bit. They were out of that Public Enemy which I would consider buying even though I have an OG. CD makes so much more sense in many ways but vinyl definitely brings more enjoyment, that's another option or alternative to ponder. How to move forward with this hobby is a question that is going to be different for everyone, cheers

[@stevecarlsonvinylcommunity9147]

Doug, awesome point of waiting a few days before jumping on line to order some thing. I jump at it right away so I won’t forget lol. Wait a couple days and I saved $20-$30 lol. It is too easy now to jump on to any album you want. Temptation is real. I have definitely become more focused on what I buy but blind buys still happen frequently. I enjoy doing that, unexpected pleasure !

[@henrys3629]

I remember the record shop having alt 90's 45s, odd stuff and northwest stuff in the $1 bin. Some of that is rare and obscure. I loved that bin, even though no one else seemed to. Even when I see $1 records, people are so darn picky and leave behind. More for me.

[@stevecarlsonvinylcommunity9147]

Henry, that is really cool that you have found all those 45s but you seem to always know where to look

[@seekingathread]

Hmm though I replied here...but in any case, I've mostly curbed spending on anything that's expensive audiophile that I don't absolutely need. Though I recognize the value. It's pretty amazing what is being manufactured. The quality is very high. Essential to own? Maybe not. For me it's sourcing those original artifacts that brings the most joy. So I go with that...Good one Steve

[@stevecarlsonvinylcommunity9147]

I’m with you Dom. The audiophile is not worth the price to my ears. An OG, if affordable, is what truly brings me pleasure. Something extra special about that and it makes you smile when you play it. I don’t smile as much in a repress lol

[@Harrispilton22]

Ultimately there becomes a pointing every record collectors lifewhen it becomes an addiction. Once your in the shop & you think 'I'm not leaving this place without three records' then you know your screwed. That why I buy the 12" singles,I get the dopamine hit of buying a record..but the cost is minimal, & it takes me back to a time I used to be excited about music. Maybe how you felt about baseball cards!

[@stevecarlsonvinylcommunity9147]

I like that, go for a cheaper dopamine hit lol but also so true. I visit my local shop once a week, Sunday at noon, to be exact. I always pick up 1 to 3 records but not 12 inch. I’m more of a serious junkie I guess. That said I do seriously buy less now and purge more

[@MGKBOSTON]

Hi Steve, it is rare that I get a brand new album. When I do, it's inevitably a birthday or Christmas gift from my wife. I buy a lot of $5 records, and I've been lucky the past few years with a good local shop with remarkably low prices. I always have a reject pile in the corner to trade for store credit which sustains my collecting. I have never understood the concept of collecting sealed records, unless you plan on flipping it in the near future for a higher price, that I get.

[@stevecarlsonvinylcommunity9147]

In my first collection I never got rid of an album, it was about quantity. Now I do. I have a pull pile like you that I trade in for credit. I do but a lot of new albums primarily because I want to keep up with some of the new music and it’s cheaper than some of the OGs. I rarely get an album for Xmas, no one has a clue what to buy lol. Thanks for watching Mike

[@VinylPiper]

hi steve, thanks for the video. i have no problem getting up and flipping a 45rpm record.. it's part of the deal. I grew up buying singles and that's what you had to do, get up and flip the single. Sounds better too :)

[@stevecarlsonvinylcommunity9147]

You are also probably in much better shape as you don’t mind the extra exercise lol. It is great you can notice the sound quality. For me I just can’t tell enough to justify it but they are made because people like you find enjoyment with them and that is all that matters

[@mad4vinyl802]

Great video, Steve. I'm a hybrid of all of the collectors you described. I'm sure it's a licensing concern regarding the increase in 45 rpm offerings. The majors know how profitable reissues are; they are going to keep 33 1/3 pressings in-house. They make a lot of money by licensing 45 rpm pressings to boutique labels, so why not? The majority of the Atlantic 75 titles do not interest me. I'm still bringing in far too many albums. It's hard for me to pass up $1 - $5 albums. And 45s - forget about it, I'm hooked for life. To your point, there is no right or wrong to collecting vinyl. Enjoy yourself and live within your means. Don't try to keep up with the Stone Roses -

[@stevecarlsonvinylcommunity9147]

Mark, you are right there is no right or wrong way to collect. People have no right to be critical of others It is a personal choice. Most of those Atlantic reissues you have probably already found great OGs for only $5. You know what your looking for. Someone else mentioned the licensing agreements, that was an excellent point I never thought about.

[@Stuck_in_the_70s]

Great video Steve I agree with everything you said. I’m trying to spend less on records, but of course I do love buying them so it’s hard to wean yourself off it! Yes you have to strike a balance between quantity and quality. I buy just for listening, I rarely (perhaps never) buy as an investment. My collection became slightly unwieldy so I have been been through and thinned out about 150 records, a lot of which were duplicates. FOMO is a real thing, and I got caught up in buying the MFSL Onesteps and the UHQRs for a bit. ‘Kind of Blue’ and ‘Are you Experienced?’ UHQRs (both 33rpm) are the only two I ever play. I think this is because generally I’m not a huge fan of the 45rpm album. I know they generally sound better, but I am lazy, and for me it just ruins the flow of the album. I have just sold my Carol King ‘Tapestry’ Onestep and I have 9 others (including some hard to get ones) that I’ll be selling for that reason, so hopefully I’ll raise some money for a new cartridge and a few records. The only ‘audiophile’ label I buy regularly now is the Tone Poets label, which I can usually pick up for £30 or less. I just got the Chet Baker sings (paid £36) and it’s one of the best sounding records I own. Take care cheers

[@stevecarlsonvinylcommunity9147]

You made some wonderful points and it was interesting to ready how your musical journey has changed. I think that audiophile stuff is cool and fun but for the price I never play it. Even a box sets, that I love to have, how often do I pull one out to play an album. It is a rarity. If I love a group I will do that but too many were groups I like but really did not need to spend on a box set. Loved your thoughts on this

[@Stuck_in_the_70s]

@@stevecarlsonvinylcommunity9147 I once listened to an economist talking. He said (and this was at least 20 years ago mind) that if you were looking at purchasing an item then you should look at it as if it cost £1 every time you used it during its lifetime, so for instance it’s worth spending a lot of money on your bed - or your sofa etc. and he’s right if you think about it! The cartridge on my turntable cost around £650 but I get maybe 1500 hours out of it, so that’s a good deal, right? A Onestep that I listened to twice in 3-4 years is really not such a good way to spend money in a useful way, but it might still increase in value in a way everyday items do not! Anyway, it’s an interesting concept. Take care cheers

[@stevecarlsonvinylcommunity9147]

That is outstanding and something to really ponder

[@Stuck_in_the_70s]

@@stevecarlsonvinylcommunity9147 9x Onesteps now listed! Total price is around £1500! I do hope they sell, because I can’t help but think of what I’m going to buy with the money 😎

[@TCatsDeepVinylTraxx]

Great topic to have an intellegent conversation about. Good thing I'm not that intellignet, because if I thought about it too much, I'd wonder why I was buying it in the first place. But, it music is what I'm very passionate about, and I love the vinyl format because, as people say, it's the most immersive and it's cool, at least for me it is. I get excited about it, and sometimes find myself talking about it with someone that, quite frankly, doesn't really give a "rat's posterior section" about it. But, I love record collecting for both main aspects, I love the excitement about getting the great deals on great titles, but there are some that I have a harder time finding that I love enough that price is not so much of a factor. Both ways, I tend to spend more money than what an otherwise cooperative and understanding marriage likes to agree to, if you know what I mean. But, it's also fun. My wife and I like to go to thrift stores and antique malls (and etc.). She browses through the entire store looking for wonderful and creative things for the home, spending hours looking for useful things and lovely things that help make a house a home, while I dig through record crates. I don't necessarily look for ultimate quality like the best possible audiophile version of anything, though it's nice if I find one (at a great price, of course), and there are some that I only want pristine copies of, but will take a passable one until I find a better copy. But, I do find that, now I've replenished my collection for the most part, that I don't just pick up anything, but try to concentrate on things that are on my search list. For that reason, now would be a good time to purge those records that are "just okay, but everyone else has them, so I need to get it too" kind of records, I suppose. You say, "Well that should be easy, then!" to which I reply "Hah!" Anyway, I loved your comments and stories about collecting, quite a very intellagant video, for sure! Now I'm going out to get that 45 rpm reissue by The Breeders! 🤪

[@stevecarlsonvinylcommunity9147]

Lol you go get that Breeders album Mike! Thank you for the kind words. Intelligent normally is not part of my videos lol. All joking aside collecting is about the joy it brings you. You have found what really makes you happy. That is all that matters. My wife is lost in an antique mall. We go look but we don’t have a clue haha

[@STEVEHEROLD]

i’ve become more picky about what i buy this year. on one hand i buy more CDs than vinyl so i’ve been lucky in that sense since CDs are a lot cheaper than vinyl these days. but i was buying lots of stuff because it was cheap that maybe i wouldn’t normally buy. even if i find stuff cheap i’m starting to pass unless it’s something i really want or think i’ll like. we’ll see if it lasts.

[@stevecarlsonvinylcommunity9147]

Steve, yes , you always wonder how long that will last lol. I have done well at cutting back on purchases at times but then like a drunk falling off the wagon I go on a crazy spurge. It just happens, I can’t help it. Many people have converted to CD. Eventually they will Jack those prices up also

[@deancronin6934]

I’m for used vinyl mostly Steve I don’t buy new very often makes the hunt more interesting

[@stevecarlsonvinylcommunity9147]

Dean you are a patient person , I need some of that in me. I want it NOW! To you point it is so exciting to find that album you have been hunting for for years. It is very special

[@koenraaddm2582]

The latest I found was a 'private dancer' from Tina Turner. 9 euro. Mint. Makes me more satisfied then buying a new from 30 euro. 😊

[@stevecarlsonvinylcommunity9147]

There are crazy reissues on bargain records. I saw a Roberta Flack reissue going for $40 but you can pick up a clean OG for $5K , not rare. I scratch my head at stuff like that.

[@EmbryonicRobot]

I keep seeing what I would call regular records now at $50-$70+ in Canada! I fondly remember the $29.99 days, and I thought that they were overpriced at the time. I don't think many people over the age of 50 can really distinguish between an audiophile pressing versus a regular pressing, especially given that most of us do not have $20,000 turntables and tube amps.

[@stevecarlsonvinylcommunity9147]

You are 100% right on the stereo equipment We spend a lot of money for the album and basically the OG sounds the same lol. What kills me is when I see a common $5 album now getting a $40 reissue and people are excited. I just don’t get it Brian

[@Axel_Foley1970]

I have taken a long look at how I was collecting and decided that I don't need any of these audiophile albums because the original make me happier and I don't think that I have an ear that cares about the difference. I truly believe that the $20 OG sounds great and the $150 audiophile copies are only a smidge better. Not worth the extra $130 to me. I have sold off all my MOFI, etc.... and not because of MOFI gate. Like you the OGs just make me happy. I realized the same thing as you. Pull back enjoy the music and try not to worry about the collecting part. That is easier said than done. Haha.

[@sjbang5764]

I think you make an excellent and important point when you wrote "I don't think that I have an ear that cares about the difference." I would dare say that goes for 90% of the vinyl community.

[@stevecarlsonvinylcommunity9147]

Axel, that is great to hear and good for you. I also don’t believe I hear a difference. If I had a $10,000 stereo, maybe then but that would be about 350 records lol. OGs definitely are special and you feel you really have something of musical history. Thank you for your thoughts.

[@stevecarlsonvinylcommunity9147]

That is my exact thought also. I bought it because I was told it was the best sounding but could I really tell, probably not

[@davepounds8924]

Great video!! The price of a lot of these new releases are getting outrageous These audiophile records are over 100 dollars I fear it’s turning into a rich man’s hobby unfortunately!!

[@stevecarlsonvinylcommunity9147]

Dave, it is, it happens in too many hobbies and eventually it comes crashing down. If you can afford it great, why not get it but I would rather have more music that makes me smile

[@mccarthyd6603]

Great video as usual👍 The 45 RPM fad is getting out of control...the majority of people(including myself)could rarely tell the difference between the same 33 rpm pressing in a needle drop...but the hype sticker for the 45 RPM release looks great! The ironic thing is the upcoming MOFI Van Halen reissues...the average length of each album is between 28-33 minutes...that is an average of 7-9 minutes per side😂😂😂😂 No thanks...but to each their own in collecting....give me the dirty bins that I can go crate digging looking for run-outs of minty OG Pressings... Cheers🍸

[@stevecarlsonvinylcommunity9147]

I am with you , I can’t tell the difference. I don’t even watch shoot out videos, why bother I sometimes wonder if they can really tell. I guess if you have an expensive system you could. That is insane on the VH Mofi. That is insane and so not worth it

[@jamesgriffithsmusic]

I've never been at all interested in the monetary value of records; in fact an expensive price sticker just puts me off buying. I wish I could have the patience to get all my records in Discogs though as I when I shuffle off I'd like my two sons to get fair prices for what I've got. I've cut right back on buying records despite having moved house and gained more space....but we'll see how that goes long-term. Nice discussion topic Steve.

[@stevecarlsonvinylcommunity9147]

The monetary value due to discogs I feel has hurt the joy of record collecting. I now think about that sometimes over the actual music which is not right but happens. I have cut back also James but have a habit of falling off the wagon at times. Thanks for watching this James

[@mlblue5355]

Yeah! You got to step back and look at your spending. Also, after getting all those albums, will you be putting it on again, or will it sit for a year or two without getting played.

[@stevecarlsonvinylcommunity9147]

So true about spinning it again. I keep pulling stuff Michael because it has been sitting and I still don’t have a desire to play it. I am getting better at this

[@davidellis5141]

Remember the adds " Home Taping Is Killing Music " Now the adds should be " The Price of vinyl is Killing music ". I find myself buying a $15 Dollar cd over a $35- $40 Dollar album. It's fiscally crazy to do otherwise.

[@stevecarlsonvinylcommunity9147]

David, what a great point about home taping. I know you are a big collector but you are buying because of a love of music. I am surprised how many comments have been about switching back to CDs so they can enjoy music again.

[@vinylrichie007]

I refuse to buy a single record on a 2LP 45RPM. I haven’t been to the record store in 6 weeks. When I went 6 weeks ago I didn’t buy anything but traded in records that I no longer listen to. I have recently ordered 3 records online. All three were around $20 each.

[@stevecarlsonvinylcommunity9147]

I do my pod cast at the local store weekly but he prices fairly. I have cut back but at times I get stupid on line. I need to do better with a budget Richie especially with retirement coming up

[@scottspinner1]

Aye the demon vinyl. Plays with our addiction.

[@stevecarlsonvinylcommunity9147]

I do get a fix every week. My postal carrier worries about me if she goes a week without delivering at least one record lol

[@6758pasi]

Discogs has definitely made me pay attention to the value. I never did that or cared before. Now it's quite crazy, for example I have The Band self titled cd, value around 6€, then the information changed and i found myself owning a copy of which had not previously been in discogs which in turn meant that now the very same cd which had been valued at 6€ was now zero. And i felt bad about it. Did it really matter? NO! Good sounding records, luckily i have cloth ears so it really has to have a significant difference before i can tell them apart. To me, if you have to play the records back to back to find some tiny difference isn't worth a dime. When i bought the then new cd version of A Trick Of The Tail By Genesis, i was blown away by the difference. The old vinyl sounded as if it was through the blanket and the new cd was bright clear and dynamic. And i didn't have to do any comparisons, it was obvious. Of the 45rpm - 2-LP sets are especially crazy if they are of an album that was at most 30 mins. to begin with. You'll get about 7mins of music on a side. There's no point in trying to tell me you can't get excellent sound on such a short album on 1-LP 33rpm. VC does affect my choices on what to buy, but luckily it's mostly just to reaffirm my already existing thoughts "yeah i was thinking about that and now thanks to you i finally go and get it" or to expand on it "i was only thinking of buying the album and now i want the singles off it" . Anyway right now i'm cutting down on buying simply because of space, there isn't any. Pasi

[@stevecarlsonvinylcommunity9147]

Pasi, crazy how much Discogs changed the hobby. I use to buy these huge goldmine books that had prices but nothing about pressings. Very interesting Like you I have been running out of room so I keep working on pulling albums that don’t excite me. We got a lot of music and some will rarely be heard again.

[@JNebs]

On the 33 vs 45 rpm thing, I see people pleading with the record companies to do a batch of each as if it were up to the company's whim(s). It's more likely that when a company announces that they'll be doing a run of an album the playback speed is built into the licensing contract. Appealing to their whims or their "sympathies" is a bit silly. Sure there may be some pressed at 33 later on but probably by another company and under a different licensing contract.

[@stevecarlsonvinylcommunity9147]

Great point about the licensing. We often don’t think about that but it is very true. I really do think 33 rpm will eventually come out but it will be awhile. If not I just have to decide if I really need it. Always good to hear from you Jeff

[@robbiedetroitstigermanviny8883]

Steve, Doesn't Midland if I remember correctly, Have a Dragstrip or Raceway there?

[@stevecarlsonvinylcommunity9147]

Sadly they do not. There is the little town of Auburn that is close by that has a small dirt track. Maybe years ago they did

[@BobbyGass5]

I order records and do without food sometimes. My excuse is I need to diet... LOL

[@stevecarlsonvinylcommunity9147]

Lol Bobby, obviously you don’t have a wife or cat hahaha

[@dixielandfarm]

I know I can't anymore - it was fun when it was cheap and no one wanted records, but now with everyone thinking every record is worth $25-50 no matter the condition, I just don’t enjoy shopping anymore. Plus, the stuff I want is so rare anyway that you basically have to get it free on YT or pay $200 for a trashed copy (or even $100 for a recent repress that went out of print on day one).

[@stevecarlsonvinylcommunity9147]

Someday those prices will crash again Kris and you will be back in the game and once again enjoying the amazing cheap finds that you found. Your day is coming

[@BrianMacsMusicArchives]

I amassed 500+ lp in 5 years but haven't bought any in neariy a year because the prices got insane and my want list was basically filled .

[@stevecarlsonvinylcommunity9147]

Brian, that is outstanding. You got what you wanted , sat back and were content. That is something most of us would struggle with. I salute you sir, excellent

[@festersuncle6298]

I own 3500 plus LP's. I own multiple copies of some records. I bought a LZ ll RL for $16 years ago. I cleaned it a couple of years ago, out of the blue and.... Pop! Crackle! Crackle! I traded it for a sealed MOFI version. Never looked back. We all chase our tail in this business. If you love it do it. I ordered VU Loaded from AP Atlantic 75 last week. $60 x 1 = $60.

[@stevecarlsonvinylcommunity9147]

Fester, it is about enjoying what you do. So many ways that we can collect. Loaded is such a great album, I saw that VU is one of the few groups I have multiple copies of, an OG and a reissue.

[@redcomusic]

I travel to collect, and in turn, collect to travel. Because my idol is THE King of Travel. HAHAHA!!! - Red

[@stevecarlsonvinylcommunity9147]

Lol Red. That was very profound and needs to become a T Shirt. All I can do is hope to keep up with you

[@BoomKazoo2112]

Hey Steve Lucky I never believed in all the audiophile bla bla bla 😂 Seems like an endless rabbit hole designed to keep you on the hook. BTW did you get the Misfit record from Green Light? I remember seeing it on the wall and thinking Holy Crap that’s expensive 😂 Take care Brian ☮️

[@stevecarlsonvinylcommunity9147]

I bought it at my local store store. The owner who I do my pod cast with gave me a very good price but still it was spendy. I got a number of wall albums from Green Light So much temptation visiting record stores Brian

[@rickandrecords]

I don’t know if I’m more out of money or more out of room. Probably just more out of my mind. Whatever. For me the search for the perfect song continues. I just hope it’s in a thrift store.

[@stevecarlsonvinylcommunity9147]

Lol Rick, looking for the perfect song in the thrift store. Sounds like a country western song title! I need to be better at just enjoying what I have on my shelves, the better I do that the happier I will be

[@Cookingwithsteveg]

Hi Steve. What I’m really tired of is the pompous individuals in the VC who judge and criticize others for the reasons or motives they have for creating content and making videos. These guys with their authoritarian complex of VC etiquette, morality and integrity has me laughing daily. They are so quick to get rubbed the wrong way. The most common cause of that type of behavior is not getting rubbed the right way often enough. Uptight eccentric individuals can be difficult to deal with. This is related to your saying that people collect for different reasons. Like you said there is no right or wrong when it comes to collecting or buying and selling records. I agree with you there. I have records in my collection that I don’t even like or listen to. In fact I’m waiting for the artist to die so I can get top dollar for their rarest records. Some Philosophical idiot will call me out on this, just wait and see. That might be a good topic for a video lol. I think I’ll bring that to the thread table. It doesn’t work for every artist. A few that I did notice an exuberant increase in price for their records are Michael Jackson, David Bowie and Lemmon Motorhead. The values eventually deflate to normal but the initial value title wave can be a great ride. It just has to be caught at the right time with the right records. I just finished a video expressing my disappointment that Acoustic Sounds 75 series is all 45rpm and $60.00 a pop, $70.00 with shipping. I’ve since learned that the 33rpm releases of the same titles will be available through Rhino and VMP. That’s all fine and dandy but I wanted Acoustic Sounds production of those titles at 33rpm. That’s just me being OCD. I guess I really trust the quality and sound from Acoustic Sounds, so much that I don’t care if other companies are releasing 33rpm I wanted them to be recorded and manufactured by Acoustic Sounds. Great topic, Steve.

[@stevecarlsonvinylcommunity9147]

Steve, that is why I really stressed a few times there is no right or wrong way to collect. It’s your records, no one has the right to tell you how you should collect them. My local shop has albums held back that are artists on the going to die watchlist lol. It makes sense. There is always a run when they pass. Yea it’s a little macabre but makes perfect sense to me.

[@33RPMVinyl]

If you think record collecting is expensive buy a power boat and take up boating. I did, and each trip to the fuel dock cost me $700.

[@stevecarlsonvinylcommunity9147]

Lol yeah I know you have had your issues Jeff. Is a boat like a money pit? That is crazy on the gas

[@TheDigitalGramophone]

I guess the answer is “Yes.” 😂😎

[@stevecarlsonvinylcommunity9147]

Lol, it just took me 22 minutes to get to it Jon

[@TheDigitalGramophone]

@@stevecarlsonvinylcommunity9147 🤣

[@markkemp7608]

45rpm are great but man you have to change that album alllllll the timmmmmme!

[@stevecarlsonvinylcommunity9147]

And that’s the problem Mark, it breaks the album up to much and gives me toooo much exercise!

[@monaural2.988]

Let’s repeat the mantra of the smart in 2023, shall we? The solution to high vinyl record prices is…..THE COMPACT DISC!!!!!!

[@stevecarlsonvinylcommunity9147]

Lol, Compacr Disc, did I get that right. Once the places figure out that is what people want those prices will start getting jacked up so buy now

[@RekkidTalk]

I try to get enjoyment out of ridiculous overpriced and undesirable records that I find in antique malls. Sometimes I find good deals worth buying, but other times it's catch-and-release and I'll just post pictures on IG or videos on YT of stuff like $54 Eric Clapton "Slowhand" (not a MoFi) in VG.

[@stevecarlsonvinylcommunity9147]

No way on the Clapton album Chris. You spend time hitting antique malls in your opinion has it gotten worse with the pricing or do you still find a lot of decent items? It has been frustrating for me

[@RekkidTalk]

@@stevecarlsonvinylcommunity9147 There's a lot of frustration in finding $1 records that no one wants, $10 records that are the $1 records no one has wanted in decades, and the decent records that are stupidly overpriced, but finding the gems is great. I've noticed that booths with desirable records at fair prices or outright bargains sell quickly, and everything else lingers forever.

[@Localbandography]

No one makes me bleed my own blood.

[@stevecarlsonvinylcommunity9147]

Lol, I’m just looking for a transfusion Dave Need some common sense in my blood lol

[@big_burly_bro]

I was just watching a live stream, and a VC member, with all seriousness, said, "Ohh, these reissues are cheap! They're only 35 dollars." I respect and like that person, but something about that statement (not them, just the statement) is really broken.

[@stevecarlsonvinylcommunity9147]

It is funny to hear that. A reissue which is highly profitable should not be that much. I guess Eric if you have the disposable income maybe it is. New album , okay but not a reissue

[@festersuncle6298]

Breeders 2018 4AD reissues @$25

[@stevecarlsonvinylcommunity9147]

Thank you. I need to go check that out

[@Vollmertime]

Records are my only Hobby I only buy what I can afford.

[@stevecarlsonvinylcommunity9147]

That is smart but to many don’t, so many temptations. It is my only hobby though I do buy a lot of books to read. I try to cut back and I do well and then suddenly I fall off the wagon lol

[@bmboldt]

I see no reason to spend lots of money on music at my age. I do enjoy hunting for used vinyl and CDs. Vinyl is too expensive unless I find it at a thrift store, garage sale or a friend is getting rid of their collection. I do most of my CD buying at those same places for next to nothing. We just got back from Europe which wasn't cheap. I hit a few record stores there and came home with one used CD. At this point in life I would rather spend money on vacations instead of just more stuff.

[@stevecarlsonvinylcommunity9147]

I totally get vacation and travel. I hope to do that also. Where did you go? I love traveling to Europe but it’s been 20 years. Your priorities have changed and you have some excellent ones.

[@bmboldt]

@@stevecarlsonvinylcommunity9147 we went to Germany, Paris and London. I missed the NU vs CU game which was probably for the best. Going to the big record show here in Omaha on Sunday.

[@stevecarlsonvinylcommunity9147]

Enjoy the show Yeah CU was exciting first half at least. I had hope. That was quickly dashed in the second half

[@greghawkins229]

Still a collector but I have a ton of space

[@stevecarlsonvinylcommunity9147]

Now that my basement is finished I also have the room but I’m not chancing that again. Collecting is what makes you happy, nothing else matters Greg

[@greghawkins229]

@@stevecarlsonvinylcommunity9147 absolutely

[@benrankins4446]

Mike, if you think records are expensive, come to Australia if you really want to pay big dollars. No quantity or quality, just very expensive anyway you slice it. I could care less about collectability. There’s this whole thing called choice & buying records because a dude on YT having a midlife crisis says this is the version you need, you don’t have to buy it. It’s not mandatory. Is it valuable to you or are you interested in if it’s valuable to someone else. Get it if you’re going to enjoy it. If you don’t dig it. Sell it…easy 👍

[@stevecarlsonvinylcommunity9147]

Well said Mike. I had to readjust my priorities. I just got in three more albums I bought inspired by the VC. It does turn me on to great music, better judgement is the key

[@benrankins4446]

@@stevecarlsonvinylcommunity9147 Mike I totally agree that the VC can be a great tool to learn about new stuff (especially my channel 😂) but you gotta be careful to not get caught up in the hype. There’s definitely a lot of VC trends that you can take with a grain of salt. I never thought that my ingrained cynicism could ever be a positive, but in this forum it helps me to not buy most of the “grails” espoused in the VC. Cheers…Mike

[@offthebeatentracks4515]

Good points. If it don’t make you happy, why spent a shitload of cash on something that makes you miserable? That’s what we have women for.

[@stevecarlsonvinylcommunity9147]

Lol Darrell and we are still married. Yes it all boils down to collect for yourself and what makes you happy

[@mandomtz]

Yep. It's gotten frustrating. It's just the greedy ass music industry gouging consumers by marketing vinyl as a luxury collectible for people of "taste and culture w/ disposable income. Young people,kids, college,teenagers etc the largest consumer demographic for music, They don't buy vinyl cause its cost prohibitive and and the value just isn't there for them. The expensive bloated audiophile box sets of basic classic rock shit you can buy for under 20 bucks is whole other hustle. That shit's for elitist nerds with more money and ego than brains.

[@stevecarlsonvinylcommunity9147]

If people will spend more will join in to offer more. It’s all about finding the breaking point on pricing. It has been sad but happens with every hobby doesn’t it until finally the sales start to dry up because of greed.

[@romanlewandowski5027]

"I know you're a real cuckoo" I want to add my two cents to this topic, for two cents is all I'm willing to spend on it. I like to think of the VC more as the MC. MC meaning Music Community. VC always makes me think of the Viet Cong. Are we OK with that? MC makes me think of MC Hammer. He was definitely more fun than the Viet Cong. Furthermore, the MC moniker gets rid of any notion that you have to buy stuff in order to participate in the community. Henry Ford once said, "The road to poverty is paved with limited edition color 45 RPM records." That's why he decided to only offer Model T's in black. But wait a minute, do we really want to associate ourselves with Henry Ford? The point is record prices have only gotten cuckoo-er since Ford's time, and I don't think any of us want anyone going broke from their vinyl habit. I'm imagining some poor person pushing around a shopping cart filled with records. At night, this poor soul uses the albums to construct a cardboard house. "At least I'm still surrounded by music," this poor sap says with a strained smile while he gazes at his first pressing of the Misfits' Walk Among Us. That's not fun at all, and this community should be about fun. That brings me to someone whose reputation is beyond reproach: Marquis de Sade. Or so I used to think. In true alterna-style Kim Deal made fun of him with The Breeders' song "Cannonball." In an interview, she said, "The message of the song as a whole was making fun of de Sade and his libertarian views that if he was better off than someone, then they were just fodder for him. Playthings. It was saying, 'Come on, life’s not a contest.' " "So you’re pretty much anti-de Sade?" the interviewer asked. "Well, I don’t know. Later on I found out he used to suck the snot out of people’s noses, and I thought that pretty much ruled." I didn't make that up. It's the type of information that's fun to share with people in our community. It puts a smile on the face. Of course, we should not use those less fortunate than us as playthings. Some claim that there are people in records who are literally playthings. They are the people that live in the grooves. Groovies, they're called. The groovies live off the good vibrations that come from playing a record. If you do not play a record, they die. I'm guessing that groovies are a myth, though Flamin' Groovies are very real. Sorry, I think I may have gotten a little sidetracked. The important thing to remember from all this is that the vinyl community should be open to anyone whether they have a million records or no records. It's not about capitalism, communism, libertarianism. It's certainly not about sadism. It's about funism. It's about sharing. I think John Fogerty Leghorn put it best when he said, "You don't need a penny just to hang around / But if you got a record, best spin that sh@t around." That's all for now. Thanks for reading. And whether you are a groovy or not, stay groovy. "The bong in this comments section"

[@stevecarlsonvinylcommunity9147]

Another marvelous comment of pure prose. Agree with VC, I also think Viet Cong but young people probably have no idea about that. Sucking snot out of someone’s nose, that is a hobby that is not for everyone Groovies, yes we are groovies, we are a tribe of groovies that just spin around and around all day long. It was great to experience some more of what is in the mind of Roman.

[@tardisrider613]

Collectibles are only worth what someone is willing to pay you for them. If you're collecting for the investment value, collect gold.

[@stevecarlsonvinylcommunity9147]

I probably should have gone that route years ago, easier to dispose of also. Pretty sure my OG Zamrock rocks will be tough to move lol

[@VagueRANT100]

Great video Steve......you have hit the nail on the head....cryptocurrency/discogs are false economies......I used to have that MISFITS album....worth nothing originally,now highly collectible..It took me almost 50 years to complete one set of trading cards,the anticipation was the thrill...now it is in a bottom drawer somewhere neglected

[@stevecarlsonvinylcommunity9147]

OMG yes the thrill of completing a trading card set, I know that feeling well. And then the hunt is over lol. Cryptocurrency, omg, so much scam surrounding that, wow. Since I have been rebuilding my collection after the flood the tough part is all these albums I bought in bargain bins that now go for crazy dollars. I am working on thought of the vinyl stock market lol. How do you play it? Thanks for taking the time to watch and comment

[@Gary-qq7og]

I haven't bought a new record since the late 70s getting to expensive!

[@stevecarlsonvinylcommunity9147]

Yes it is. I still buy them but have cut way back. I am trying to be more careful but at times I fall off the wagon lol