The 5 vinyl commandments? Unsolicited advice for new record collectors

[@Extremesam43]

Frank, I really liked your "5 commandments" video. So much, that I`ve added 5 of my own. Hope you like them. #1 -Listen to every. record you buy at least once. . Out of respect for the music, you'll never know what new music you`ll love. At the very least, you've learned about an artist's work. Good or bad. #2- Never turn the music off in the middle of a song. Allow it to finish first (respect, once again). #3- Don't judge an album by it's price. Some of my most favorite music I bought for 50 cents!. (remember the cut-corners records at department stores?) While some of my more expensive albums are nothing more than Frisbees. #4- Never leave the vinyl on the turntable when your done for the day. Unless of course you want to start a dust collection too. Put them away! Unless you are displaying them proudly. #5- Never casually lend your records out! You'll probably never see them again and if you do, no telling what condition you'll get them back in. Just ask my Lou Reed "Take No Prisoners" Live album. Hope you liked these. Spin On!... Sam (Glenolden, Pa)

[@nicknordmann5171]

I bought record of a 1970 high school band camp. I got it for 50 cents at a thrift shop. I got it because I am in a community band with some people on the record. It is a fun listen.

[@NateB1976]

My biggest piece of advice and one I wish I payed more attention to when I first started is...If you’re going to buy used vinyl at record stores, flea markets, yard sales, record shows etc take the time to pull every record out of the sleeve and check the condition it’s in. Don’t just assume it’s in good shape because the outside of the album jacket looks good or the seller is reputable or because you’re just so excited to have found the album you’ve been looking for. Always check it out.

[@Channel33RPM]

Great tip Nate. It' so important to inspect the records. I have been burned many times when I did not do this. Frank

[@AndyP126]

And BRING A SMALL FLASHLIGHT. I swear record store lighting is designed to hide scuffs and scratches. I've bought stuff that looks great in the record store. But when I bring it home, I suddenly see sratches and scuffs that were not visible in the record store.

[@abstractheory1]

buying used on Discogs is one thing, but to actually buy used records in person and not check them is absolutely crazy. Do people really need to be told this? yikes!

[@AndyP126]

@@abstractheory1 There's a learning curve. If you're coming from streaming or from CDs, there is no real grading system. It either works or it doesn't. They may think the same thing about vinyl.

[@manchesterexplorer8519]

Yah , it sucks buying a warped album or something that sounds like a popcorn machine lol.

[@PhilMogg]

I like what I like and buy what I like and don't care what anybody thinks of my taste in music, which is very eclectic.

[@Channel33RPM]

That's the way to do it. I have lost count of the number of times people have told me I have horrible taste in music, but honestly -- who cares what others think? Cheers! Framl

[@analoguecity3454]

My sentiments exactly!

[@analoguecity3454]

@HALF MT haha, exactly.

[@brianartillery]

Same. My record collection has a bit of everything in it. The casual visitor will find no really big bands in it, though. Stuff like Queen, Genesis, etc., I can listen to on line or on the radio if I want. I have a rack of CD's (love 'em, and own far too many to be healthy), and I'm amused at visitors looking at it, puzzled, as there's nothing in it that you could call 'mainstream'.

[@iskandertime747]

I agree with all of these, especially ignoring the gatekeepers and snobs. This is YOUR collection, it should reflect you. Wash your hands before you play records. Oh yeah, don't forget to play your records. Play them, enjoy them and love them.

[@BriansVinylRecords]

Don't worry about what pressing you have. If it sounds good, enjoy it.

[@NoMoreMrNice]

Now I’m hearing about these UHQR pressings that are coming out that cost up to $150. They get you by running about 10,000 copies and that’s it. Then you feel like if you don’t buy now, you’ll cry later. This can be a very expensive rabbit hole to go down.

[@kevinvitale8980]

Maybe not a commandment, but advice... The Hunt... my record collecting became symbiotic with growing interest in music...it was soooo fun. Treasure hunting.

[@AyalaMatherd]

I agree.

[@georgewest1180]

I’ve been collecting for 3 years and only have 30 or so records, I do it for the music and that’s it, it doesn’t bother me if it’s an original press or a reissue as long as I can just listen to the music I love and enjoy it

[@Keziapurrs]

I'm so excited that my comment was mentioned! I feel "almost" famous! LOL. Great list of commandments!

[@johnsweda2999]

Can I have your autograph

[@Keziapurrs]

@@johnsweda2999 Why, yes, of course!!!!!

[@Channel33RPM]

Thanks for your comment Lisa, and for your support over all these years. Frank

[@darkblueturbo]

Can you sign some of my records? :)

[@Swino5]

Don't look down your nose at other vinyl collectors. Be an encouragement to those who can't afford a setup like yours. If they add a record to the 20-30 they have, celebrate with them instead reminding them that you have thousands. Give your duplicates to the less fortunate and help them out. Stay positive toward others and hang out, enjoy the music, and enjoy the ride!

[@raysutton488]

Be patient as you buy your favorites your taste will expand and so will your collection.

[@rocky-o]

good advice all around....just dig what you love and love what you dig.....peace...rocky

[@gasperarnez]

I started collecting records/LPs, a month ago! At that time music started to mean something to me and it became important in my life. That is why I love vinyl because it gives you that felling of fullfilment when you own a record you like.

[@ThatVinylChannel]

When I am dead, I'll stop buying records. Until then.... Actually, before I die I'll join a record service and pay a couple of years in advance. Keep them coming in! :) My wife will LOVE that 😲!

[@InfectiousGroovePodcast]

Hahaha, I often wonder how fast my wife will sell off my whole collection once I pass lol

[@Channel33RPM]

Haha, nice! You've given me an idea ... :)

[@lawrencecabrera5937]

Same here. That’s not a bad idea.😄

[@davidward9487]

My collection is doomed im sure. But i didn't get it for them.....i got it for me and it will have served its purpose. When im gone i won't know and it won't matter which is why i play them everyday!

[@markv3547]

Yes buy what you love & can afford!

[@DamonBrazzellUkesploitation]

I actually have a bit of animosity toward "record flippers." Anyone who buys a record, especially a limited edition, to only jack up the after market price does a great disservice to the listener who really wants the record to enjoy for themselves. I also collect movies as well and the same thing happens there.

[@stephensmall4172]

@Four Strings and the Truth I do to an extent but that is life and it happens with lots of things. It is awful at record store day and I blame RSD with all their limited editions because true fans often miss out and are the ones who have to pay extortionate prices. I could rant on this but sure you know what I mean.

[@LaelTeknon]

Exactly! I want the Walmart Green vinyl version of “and justice for all” by Metallica. It’s less than 30 dollars on Walmart’s site, but many on eBay are selling it for 60+. It’s dumb.

[@meyerkarl5276]

That's the exact reason people are now paying rare prices for items that are in abundance. A record is sold out on bands website so all the Walmart and target and Amazon copies are bought out and one idiot pays 400 for one on eBay and that becomes the new price. Sickening.

[@CarlC9898]

@@stephensmall4172 I'm so glad Pink Floyds first and second albums in mono got reissued again, before they were RSD exclusive and now its much cheaper to get them

[@BokBarber]

I don't hold anything against the flipper who happens upon some valuable records at the thrift store every so often, but I do hold a grudge against a flipper who buys up a bunch of limited release vinyl at MSRP and resells it for way over that rate a month after it goes out of print. If you find something for way under market value once in awhile, and you can sell it to get some records you actually want then good for you. If you're buying up limited stock on a new release and creating a false scarcity so you can gouge people who were right behind you in line for their copy and didn't get one because of your greed, then you can go to hell.

[@mathiasgustavsen2312]

as a 16year old buying vinyl opened a new world for me. I started getting records I had never seen before just for the fun of it. I'm now a fan of the grateful dead and canned heat

[@runcible4755]

That is awesome. It’s one thing for a old fossil like me to get *back* into collecting vinyl. It’s really cool to see someone get into it that didn’t grow up with it. Keep at it!

[@jesserussell7242]

Not only clean the records, but also check and see if there’s any scratches on it because what you don’t want is when you buy a record and there’s a big scratch where the wrecker is going to pop and skip and if there’s a scratch try to clean it as best you can. when I buy vinyl records and CDs I always make sure that it’s in good condition with no scratches whatsoever and also make sure that the sleeves are in good condition as well not just the album covers themselves. and for those who love box sets by the boxes that you love to listen to even the vinyl box sets which are great.

[@NoCoverCharge]

At 54 got a new turntable and started buying albums again … I’m up to about 50-60 .. but I just buy what I want to hear and from wherever I can find it .. I’m not a collector but a listener.. I take off the plastic covers and throw them away … I don’t plan on ever selling them so they are just mine for listening .. and the plastic sleevy things drive me crazy they just stick out everywhere or tear so out with those .. but I love my vinyl bug

[@jerryking7502]

My number one would be RESEARCH what you are getting into. Understand the vinyl medium, it's pros and cons, both the medium itself and also the hardware you need to play your medium....

[@emancaindec9731]

Yes, that is to prevent in regretting in investing/buying something. Research to also know what to expect from the product so no regrets in the end.

[@MannyRosa]

Great Advice. I’m 52 and have been collecting since the age of 10 or so. Buying my own since about15 years old. Now I’m happy to have been able to pass on the bug over to my son who’s’ first record was a Red 45 of The Beatles Paperback Writer. Now, other than Beatles, he’s into Genesis, Talk Talk, Jamiroquai and host of many others. He started out playing his records on my Technics 1200. I had 3 so he bought the third from me. So cool that we both share the love of music on vinyl!

[@troybrannelly5554]

i got into records because had some from dad that i saved when he got rid of his TT. I didn’t have a TT but got one i few years later.

[@adventureswithdee9526]

I agree with it all. Buying only what I love or super cheap and I can try new stuff without losing a bunch of $.

[@bekbob]

I can remember selling just one vinyl LP for a profit. I sold a french pressing, pink vinyl copy of Pink Floyd - Animals for $100 on eBay. That's one profitable sale out of a thousand albums bought. And I wish I never had sold it.

[@GooseRider808]

Good advice, thanks. Waiting on a new record player in the mail which is an upgrade from my all in one suitcase player.

[@andrewmaenner5404]

Yard sales are great, I picked up mint condition YES Fragile, Black Sabbath We Sold are soul for Rock and Roll and a few others like Journey, Creedence and Jethro Tull for a buck each. She said they haven’t been played in decades.

[@Homebrew58]

RE: buying the best equipment you can afford let me add... I got caught up in the building my vinyl library trap and ended up buying a low end turntable. It was a popular entry level model that cost a little over $100 but had no tonearm adjustments and I started to fear that it was damaging my records. I stopped buying records - saved my money - and bought another turntable that cost $250+ and the difference in sound quality is noticeable. Plus I no longer worry that I am gouging my vinyl after taking the time to balance the tonearm properly.

[@justing42]

I like that you call it equipment and not “gear”....not sure when that started...gear is for scuba diving

[@analoguecity3454]

Turntables like "audio technica" and 'sony" are perfectly safe for your records, and you can upgrade the stylus and buy an outboard preamp! These turntables have "spring controlled " tracking force, and they are in the "safe" range ! I "suped up" mine, and it sounds "audiophile like"!

[@meyerkarl5276]

I have a 70s Sony I got at goodwill for 30 bucks with speakers and I think it sounds great. I'm sure you could blindfold someone and they couldn't tell the difference between a 200 dollar stereo and a 1000 dollar player.

[@lockpickingparamedic2136]

It's really addictive I spend ~200€/month at my local Store but I always keep in mind that I have to buy food too.

[@grahambiggs9822]

Great advice Frank !! its all about the music... not the collection -Keep on spinning !!!

[@joshphillips5022]

Another piece of advice is to elevate your speakers. Especially on hardwood floors. Get them a foot off the ground. Invest fifty dollars on two stands. Worth it

[@RMTCTL]

I love this! Thank you so much! I'm new to the hobby; I got myself into record collecting about a year ago and have pretty much enjoyed every second of it. I don't have a huge sum of money to spend on vinyl and gear. I've got my relatively inexpensive turntable connected to my 5.1 home theater system and I think it sounds great! I'm loving the sound of vinyl and have some real gems in my little collection. One of the best ones that I have is an original Broadway cast recording of The Music Man. My five-year-old daughter LOVES it when I play that record and always asks me to dance with her. I picked it up from a second-hand store and it's not perfect, but it provides us with lots of enjoyment. I really have a hard time with the elitists who tell people not to buy this or that turntable or to only look for certain pressings and other overly pedantic pursuits. I have to take what they say with a grain of salt and remember that they have their opinion and that does not mean that they are absolutely right. My niece has a suitcase player and she spins her Kiss records on it and I think that's great. She doesn't have money or space for a nice rig, but she's getting exposure to good music and learning to take care of physical things. That's something that's kind of lost on folks who have only ever experienced music by download.

[@vinylgroovers]

Pretty good points! Indeed create YOUR OWN beloved collection! Later for all the "what you must have" in your collection!

[@user181]

All of these are excellent tips. One thing I’d add to the discussion, is to be mindful of whether you’re focused on the format (vinyl) first, and music second - or if you’re putting the music first, and then the format. I knew of someone who became so obsessed with vinyl that they repurchased everything on vinyl and got rid of their CDs and CD player and everything else. Obviously everyone is free to do as they choose, and I’m not judging. Just keep in mind that becoming so focused on a format can cause one to miss out on great music that isn’t available in that format. All that being said, I still love vinyl!

[@andrewmaenner5404]

I had an extensive CD collection. I started getting into vinyl a year ago. I kept all of my CD’s and I am slowly picking up every album I have on CD. For me, the best places are yard sales and flea markets. Also, someone else said let ppl know you collect, everyone knows I collect and I get calls all the time from friends when someone passes in their family asking if I want to go through their old albums.

[@GeeVanderplas]

I still have a ton of CDs and still buy them occasionally. Albums I already own on CD are definitely low on my list of things to get on vinyl. Only if it's a real favorite and I find a good deal will I double dip.

[@thetubesrock]

I've always bought cheap copies of music I don't know and if I love it replace it with a better one later. I then give the first one away to someone just starting out. Great video Frank and keep on spin'n!

[@meomarte]

Buy what you love. And then in the recommended there are videos from vinyl guys titled "Top 10 albums you must own" or something to that effect. In order to qualify as a collector, or something I suppose.

[@kerrydavidsadler980]

Thankyou for the mention , this is why you are such a great channel, now I can quit my job because I was mention on channel 33 rpm lol

[@Channel33RPM]

Have a good week!

[@davidellis5141]

Those sales booths in antique markets are often the source of hidden gems & also most sellers will negotiate the price as they have monthly rent to pay & vinyl is a secondary part of their booth.

[@Channel33RPM]

There can be deals at the antique markets for sure. Thanks for the comment! Frank

[@baq8680]

I don't know if it's necessary but I clean my albums every time I play them... by that I mean I clean the stylus, sweep the vinyl with the anti-static brush and then clean the vinyl with my Vinyl Styl brush and cleaning solution. Like I said it may not be for everyone but my albums do sound excellent.

[@Extremesam43]

Do a visual. If It looks super clean, no need to clean. Relax and enjoy!

[@kingofthedots3835]

I don't clean mine ,because I don't ever play them ....I replaced them with CDs for the most part !

[@MD-wk3gj]

KISS comic books. 👍 Bought them in the 70s and sold my collection when the original 4 reunited back in ‘96. Getting back into vinyl and buying a few of my favorite KISS albums. Recently acquired my holy grail of KISS items: Bally pinball machine.

[@alm5693]

My downfall when it comes to non-played records is when I decide to be a completist for an artist. Even an artist you love will occasionally put out an album or albums that I don't like, but there it is, taking up space in my collection. It can be painful to give up on an artist you were once devoted to.

[@Jbones72]

Same here, I’m wary of the automatic preorder now, I wait to hear a few songs & decide if I’m going to actually play the record more than a few times.

[@Bigbadwhitecracker]

For me, I have noticed that my favorite artists, most of them had a window of greatness, usually about 4-6 years worth of material. For most, anything after that is lame.

[@seedney]

I really loved some artists even 10 years back... Now I'm sick of some... My taste has differ a lot and I can get rid of all of their albums, but.... What if nostalgia comes? Guess, not related - bands doesn't have vinyl (LP) versions of albums since that year - they were only on tape (recorded by some pirate)... Great value of that tapes nowadays - but... musically not so much... and in days of streaming who knows what tape is "originally pirated", and what is "streaming reissue" xD

[@walterpen371]

I totally agree with your comments. I've encountered people at thrift stores and flea markets that want to get into vinyl. I warned them about the amount of time and money that they will be spending with this passion/hobby. Surprisingly most were not even aware of used record shows. The major advantage in purchasing a suitcase style record player is that the serious collectors will have the battery operated ones for testing / listening before buying the records. Unfortunately these units are not always permitted inside used record shows and stores. Peace.

[@erickort1987]

dude,im a new subscriber,i have a old school buddy,he`s a vityl fanatic..his stereo system rocks..dual carver mono block old school mono blocks with cerwin vega 15 inchers..they pound

[@erickort1987]

just sayin..cerwin vega speakers pound

[@ShelleyOurian]

My two pieces of advice that I would give record collecting newbies would be: 1. Take the time to educate yourself on the condition grading system that exists in sites like Discogs. These conditions go from P (poor), then F (fair), then G or G+ (good), then VG or VG+ (very good), then NM (near mint) or M (mint condition). I’d usually buy a record that’s VG+ and up. 2. Keep your records in a cool place with room temperature. If they are in direct sunlight, then there’s a possible chance that they’ll sound warped.

[@semccane]

I wish I had known vinyl would make a come back. I got rid of my entire collection years ago. All 70' and 80's hard rock. Now, I have to start from scratch. Thank you for your channel.

[@stephensmall4172]

Very good advice. I also say quality not quantity. Vinyl is becoming expensive and I generally try to listen, certainly to a few songs before I buy. There' no point in spending money on something that you are not going to end up playing. I don't see it as collecting but in getting enjoyment out of listening, and vinyl is simply my preferred medium.

[@gravengladomain6297]

Dude thanks for the shout out. Very cool being picked for the video.

[@analoguecity3454]

I'm with "Michael fremer", I don't understand why people say records are "warm"! What does that mean? If the master tape/file is "bright" the record is going to be bright! It just gives you a "lifelike " sound because the resolution is much higher than CDs 💿! People also notice a wider "wraparound" sound! Remember, the stylus system is basically a microphone 🎤in reverse! And the grooves are "actual" Soundwaves that are in the air! And if the source is also analog, with "decent " equipment, it can bring the exact sounds of the past right in the room with you! No other format does that!

[@katrina5683]

I have a victrola suitcase coz it was a gift. I got a new needle and I have another speaker I hook it up too. Mind you I don’t listen very often because I have a toddler and cant keep it out if reach. I plan on getting a “proper” turntable but I’ll do that when I can actually listen on a regular basis. It got me started collecting and might not have otherwise.

[@robertbyington7715]

Excellent point buy what your going to listen to; learn how to read the dead wax and pay attention to the bargain bin. When building a system spend the most money you can on your speakers that’s where the sound comes from; buy separates and if you have to take your time putting it together

[@sixthisoverdrive]

Good solid advice. Your first tip rang truest. Like what you buy. It’s so easy to get caught buying “good deals” because we see it on discogs. Just get what you will listen to regularly. Thanks for the vids.

[@realjaxon]

I think that when shopping for and buying a "used" record, don't buy anything less than VG+. You'll be disappointed if you buy less than that. Having said that. I recently bought a 'Introducing The Beatles' listed as 'VG' on eBay. I cleaned and played it and found that Side 2 was VG, but Side 1 was a G at best. It was also a 'P.S. I Love You, Love Me Do' album. I had to send it back.

[@RonaldRagn]

I think the most important thing for new collectors is to have an understanding of pressing variations and the fact that they all sound different. I feel like now especially people just do not understand this. You also save a lot of money when you know which pressings to go for and what different ones are worth. Seems like people my age (25) just buy the most current one or way overspend on a beat up "vintage" one because it is a first issue. Understanding how to locate index and catalog numbers, how to identify them on discogs, and how to know what you are looking at in a store is worth what is being asked is an incredible thing to have a grasp on. 2. I think that re sleeving all your records from the start in something like a mofi inner and a plastic outer is critical, ESPECIALLY for new collectors who likely are not handling their albums the best yet.

[@mikepotter3802]

#1 Commandment : In my opinion, 'do you' and 'don't judge'. It doesn't matter what people buy on vinyl, why they buy it, or where they bought it.

[@Channel33RPM]

Amen Mike!

[@oldskoolpautz]

👍🤠My advice: Tune U're ear!! Meaning listen to a CD, a casette and the Grandmother for just folks an 8 track; if U can get U're hands on one and HEAR the harmonic differences!! I know Hot rods', muscle car folks that have 8 tracks and cassette players for the era!! And if U're lucky someone with an old reel to reel. Pragmatic advice Frank and enjoyed!!

[@_g7085]

Records are indeed a premium/luxury product now. In a world where you can stream almost any music for free (albeit with commercials taking a little piece of your soul each time...), having music on a large piece of plastic stored in a large cardboard sleeve is a luxury. But that's why vinyl is re-surging, because some people want physical media over convenience, and when you do that, you want luxury, not bargain-bin asethetics.

[@vinylordie1301]

I started with a rebranded Crosley and (no joke) a Bose sound dock about 8 years ago when you couldn’t even buy vinyl in my town. You quickly realize that doesn’t cut it... and I’m glad we’ve all grown and changed. lol

[@jayplop6971]

I’ve found my favorite thing is to actually buy as many old beat records as possible to discover new and exciting music. But then again I do lived close to a great local shop.

[@joet_swbo101]

As usual Frank, you hit all the top topics on this subject. Keep within your wallet, take your time and have fun and enjoy the music you like.

[@MrMichaelbsmith6420]

Ah...a fellow Canadian, much has changed since growing up in the seventies, we had numerous record stores all over Calgary, like Kelly's or A&A records, Sam the record man (yes that was an actual store name) and I would spend a good portion of my time out shopping with the family in these stores, at the moment there is only one record store chain in Canada (sunshine records). Ever since the internet happened we saw the slow decline of many businesses falling by the wayside as the result of people using the internet to get music be it through downloading it legally or not and as a result a lot of the music industry is now non existent even more so for the artists that made the music in the first place and with the pandemic occurring the public cant go to see their favorite bands when they would come to town. All we have now are memories of a time that is almost at the end...and I hope it isn't.

[@gringogreen4719]

Not just for records but I use this in general. Buy something if you will most likely own it in 5 years. What I mean is limit impulse purchases. The good about this is that it makes you think harder about your purchases. The downside is you might hold on to things longer than you should. I would also tell you to pick up things YOU want instead of trying to impress others. You will be happier that way.

[@jungle_cs]

My biggest tip is do your setup how you want. At the end of the day it doesn't matter if you've got a 100 dollar audio Technica table with entry level speakers. As long as you enjoy listening to the music that's all that matters. Another is for storage at first a milk crate is ok but eventually you should invest in a nice shelf

[@richardshippful]

I waited a long time to get into Hi Fi and vinyl. I bought a Rega Planar 2, a Sprout 100, and Elac Debut 2.0 B6.2 on stands. First Album was Diana Krall's Very best of. Track 3 Pick yourself up made the sound stage appear, I was blown away by how good that sounded. I plan on upgrading to a Nagaoka MP-110 cart in a month. and I pour over the reviews to get the songs I want, but as importantly the quality of pressing that will come alive. I will be upgrading my amp, and Speakers, as time goes by. But will keep buying good music off my list each payday. So it looks like I unwittingly was following those guidelines.

[@billleary5779]

Great video! I started collecting records in the early 1980s and continued through the early 90s before getting back into it in 2005. I held on to most of collection and am glad to get back into it. I love that younger people are excited about this hobby. I do think that there is a lot of snobbery around hat people play their records on and where they purchase their music which is unfortunate but I think programs like yours help offset that type of thinking. Nice job!

[@philipeaton3102]

good video i started in the 70s my first lp was ten cc in 1973 still have it

[@berthanlin5820]

Totally agree. Especially buying what you like. It is your collection, buy the music you love!

[@Channel33RPM]

Absolutely!!

[@theweeb9101]

I agree I collect and buy what I like. I buy allot of pop music, EDM, and stuff. Allot of people try to tell me “you should buy this record” and it’s something I don’t even know nor care about. I have bought random records of different genres from artist I may know of but never heard and been very pleased with it.

[@SeanLamb-I-Am]

My first thought was, of course, buy what you like, and that was well represented in the discussion. Two that I would add are... share your collection; and don't be afraid to purge. On sharing your collection, I don't mean loan your records to friends, but invite your friends over and listen to records with them. I'm organizing a record party for this summer where I'll have a select few friends and family members over (mostly because my room is small) to listen to records. I've always said that a good joke isn't very good if you can't share it; my record collection is mostly comedy and novelty, and this is one way that I can share the jokes. Record parties also get me to look back at what I have to rediscover records I haven't spun in a while, and my guests can share their favorites so we can all learn about new (to us) artists and recordings. For the second, a well-curated collection will usually bring more enjoyment than a massive accumulation. If you find a record that you don't much like anymore, it's OK to sell it. This may be a little different depending on how it was acquired (if a family member you're very close to gave it to you and you want to show how much their gift means to you, you might not want to sell). But especially for the records that you buy on your own, if you don't want it, find someone who does want it and pass it on. Selling your clinkers will help you pay for what you really do want.

[@sjeikomar]

I started in January. I absolutely buy only what i want, but because of the treasure hunt you get to know bands and artist you haven’t checked out before. So very quickly your wantlist becomes longer 😂 It truely makes me happy though. The only stress i have is not having enough time to listen to all my records. But every chance i have i take one for a spin!

[@kalebyoung4098]

Could you do a video showing the proper handling, cleaning and storage of vinyl LPs and show or explain the mistakes that people make in these 3 areas?

[@CornishMotorcycleDiaries]

Could I be so bold as to add another? That's 'Be Adventurous' For example, I'm sure we all at some point have bought a record just for for the artwork. Now sometimes, it's a piece of crud, but hey, you can sell it on again. And sometimes is a gem that introduces you to a whole new World of musical delights. Or, you're in a strange city, you go into the local record store and ask the guy, hey what's happening here, and he points you to something new and exciting.

[@MK-tj5bf]

Everyone has been buying for the sake of buying. Me too. But now I’m vaccinated (any record has been bought for the last 4 months) because of my turntable is broken :))))

[@fleetcomm1]

If I’m looking for 50’s and 60’s rock and run across the soundtrack to the Andromeda Strain original release which was a 12” hexagonal disc, I’m buying it. But I collected in the 70’s and 80’s when you looked for records at garage sales and thrift shops for 50¢ to $1. I have never spent more than $20 on one record. eBay screwed up my collecting days. I quit around 2005. After 6000 LP & 1000 PS 45’s I asked my sons if they wanted them and they said “no”. I eBayed half of them and gave the rest away.

[@jimb2416]

Good advice for everyone Frank! Love what you can afford as far as gear goes.i gave up watching all those reviews for shiny new equipment. I've had my TT since high school and love the automatic features of it which many newer models don't have at all. I've upgraded my speakers which might not have been necessary but I felt my old ones were lacking in definition and am glad I did. Buy what you like is right on advice. If you like it you'll play it more often. Don't over buy either. As we get older lifestyles change. We have kids, a home to care for as well as your job. These can cut into your time to listen and enjoy your record collection. I'm 64 now and the majority of my collection was bought in my high school and university years. I treasure them..... but have little time to listen to them. Maybe once I retire? Lol. Yes to take care of your collection. It's an investment that will hopefully last you for years to come. I'm going to make a cleaning station with my Spinclean one of these days. Anyways..... keep on spinning Frank!!!

[@user-sb1vz9pv5y]

For itunes i will collect everything but for vinyl i agree with buying what you listen too. That goes for cds as well. There are some groups that i will buy every album but others i may just buy the greatest hits. I also listen to vinyl when i'm not doing too much multitasking and i try not listen if i feel i'm in a hurry and tempted to skip some songs.

[@dsf5362]

I like "rock" as a genre, but I will explore outside of the music I normally listen to. I have bought Motown, country and classic. I enjoy the break from my normal playlist. I pull out Willie Nelson's greatest hits once in a while and enjoy it. I find listening on my iPod I'll skip songs or play it on shuffle, with records I'll listen to complete record I guess due to fact I'm older and have get my ass up off the chair to skip a song.

[@evilchaosboy]

New subscriber here. I collect KISS vinyl (1st pressings only and NO cut corners!) I have no problem with your list, but it seems to me that this all could be summed up in two words. Common Sense. \m/

[@MisterTonyG]

Thanks for the tips. I'm not in the vinyl community yet, but I would like to be someday. My music collection is around 20 CDs and I'm fine with having a small collection. I may not have much, but I do know the CDs I have like the back of my hand. I know getting a proper setup for vinyl isn't cheap so I'm just biding my time and slowly saving up. I'm aware that you don't have to spend big bucks, but it is at least a couple of hundred dollars for a decent setup. Turntable, speakers, amp, ect.

[@bryanshirley3264]

Good to see ya back Frank. I would say clean catalog and insure your collection. My son just lost his in a house fire. Time to rebuild his collection he just turned 27 and had been buying vinyl for the last 15 years.

[@mariomartinez-it7hq]

I agree with everything said. Just enjoy and have fun

[@livinaftermidnight9651]

If all you can afford is a Crosley, wait and save until you can afford a better table!

[@aaronz9687]

Such a good topic . I am all for helping people get into vinyl. I want people to have that "a-ha" moment ,records do sound better than streaming. I don't think kids even know what a component stereo system is. They ask all the time on line "can I just plug speakers into the turntable"?

[@machiel5888]

As a college student, 45's and EP's are a gold mine. Lots of people don't want them and you can find some really rare stuff.

[@Extremesam43]

Right! DJ's always called it "spinning vinyl"

[@just4therecord374]

I can definitly agree with those points. The more thoughts you put into this Hobby at the beginning, the more money and time you'll save... And the more fun you'll have :D Greets

[@estherp4867]

Eh, for 4, I don't necessarily agree. Here's my setup: Audio Technica AT-LP120 turntable - $200 open box on ebay, I took out the preamp Ortofon Red stylus & headcase - $130, paid with record trades at Econo Jam Schiit Mani phono preamp - $130 from Schiit website used Yamaha R-50 receiver - I only paid $60 for it at Econo Jam in Oakland, CA Klipsch RP 150M - $200 open box on ebay Give or take CA's 10% tax on sales - probably another $70 This is about the cheapest set-up I could get for a beginner audiophile--where the soundstage/imaging really starts to fill a room. The turntable and Klipsch speakers were the best I could afford a few years ago; I was specifically told vintage receivers and Schiit products were worth far more in audio quality and value than I'd pay for them. I'd argue the speakers were the best thing to put some serious money into. My next big buy will probably be a Schiit Freya+ tube/solid state preamp, then upgrades to the turntable (Fluance) and speakers (more Klipsch, maybe the RP 600, maybe tower speakers). Maybe I'll toy with multiple set-ups in the house and build some Dynaco and Elekit tube amplifier/preamp kits in the future. I don't think I'll ever buy amps/receivers that aren't filled with vintage-styled parts, though... I like fixing electronics, but things with microchips or proprietary parts are often more trouble than they're worth. I think a good combination of vintage gear and reading reviews can get new vinyl listeners really good sound at a lower price than they expected. Not that mine sounds as detailed as my friend's $50,000 vinyl set-up, but it sure as hell sounds good for the value. Maybe the best advice on that one is start out with what you can afford, then buy a combination of high value/low cost items and vintage gear. The nice bonus is that if you're picking up really great-sounding records initially, they will level up and sound more and more amazing as your gear levels up. And open box / refurbished sales on ebay from the manufacturers are a steal. :)

[@axelfeiss1130]

Very good advise! Went through some of the phases myself. Spent too much on a special super vinyl only to discover that the version I already had was very close for 10% of the price. Don't feel pressured to join all new hypes or need to own all limited editions. Another addition to the "take care" aspect. Make sure your turntable is set up correctly. A sharp neadle is grinding through the grooves so if your player is not 100% in level you may wear out your neadel faster as it is not centered properly going through the grooves and even risk to damage your vinyl (at least the once played over and over again). You only have to spend the time once unless you move your player. If you take care vinyl is the longest lasting music format know so far.

[@mandomtz]

My best advice don't take record collecting to seriously. Too many people seem to have thier ego wrapped up in this hobby . It's a hobby that sometimes invites a bunch of arbitrary elitism. No pressing is ever good enough, No gear is ever good enough.You fall into a game of spending lots of money on constant upgrades for both records and gear., These ppl are NOT really enjoying the hobby. Too many collectors fall into the trap chasing perfection that doesn't really exist. I think this is what Frank mean when he said "have fun"

[@dannysvinylrainbow4852]

I have a huge collection and only a few handfuls are minty. I go for a clean cover, and as long as the vinyl is not scratched or sounds like bacon 🥓 cooking I will buy it. Especially if it’s cheap and something that I enjoy listening to. Not to offend anyone but I’m not into the pretentious vinyls that cost tons of money, for records that were made in small batches of groups we never heard of. I’d rather buy Nice popular records that I know whether it’s limited or not. And I also enjoy the dollar bin

[@twofromthetrunk9932]

Everything is based on what you can afford. From equipment to vinyl. I always find used, do research (most time spent). Look for sales on vinyl. Target has buy two albums get the third free. Or Walmart has 15.00 records. Thrifting for vinyl is the most fun. I have found over a hundred albums for 99 cents each. But keep your standards high. You can find near mint albums at Goodwill. Keep records clean. Frank love your channel. Peace love and rock and roll ✌️

[@joebloggs8636]

Privately owned record stores are the best, I'm lucky, im in Rochester N.Y where we have the Legendary House of Guitars...also The Record Archive. And my favorite good friends of mine The Bop Shop..check em out..these are the only places i buy from unless i see the " deals" on new stuff.

[@aytakk]

I agree having fun with it is best. To me going record shopping is like how many people treat a fishing trip. You never know what you are going to find and it is relaxing. A lot of it is the thrill of the chase as much as finding something you want or an unexpected gem in an unlikely place.

[@Dman130]

I started collecting back in 2020. Got some great stuff in the beginning. I am a fan of all music and I found a ton of records for great prices, never spent over $50 on a single record. Wasn’t until late 2021 when I found out one of my favorite genres of music was pressed on vinyl back in the day. Once I found that out it was dangerous 😂. The records are dubstep from the UK from the mid 2000’s. Being a collector and a music lover I find myself buying duplicates of my favorite singles as well as willing to spend more for the rare vinyl (which is almost all). Definitely my favorite genre to buy for. Great video as always!

[@lecousindevinyle5462]

Another advice for a new record collector would be... Say it loud! Let people know you are into vinyl and people might help you to start your collection. It helped me in the past and nowadays I'm helping new collectors.

[@adventureswithdee9526]

So nice of you! I started 2 months ago. Already have 60 records. I have to dial back my purchases now. 😆

[@lecousindevinyle5462]

@@adventureswithdee9526 The first ones were a really fun time for me. Hope you have a lot of fun too. Is the current situation slow things a bit for you? Because it is harder to come to other people houses and take every record in sight for the last year.

[@adventureswithdee9526]

@@lecousindevinyle5462 Yeah, I miss estate sales and thrifting. My online shopping is still in fine shape 😉

[@tarasturntable6583]

Very very true.

[@aytakk]

Not just that you have other collectors' eyes working for you. I get messages from (and send messages to) my friends who collect when any of us see anything that might be of interest. When shopping with my buddy I always find stuff he missed because he skims faster but he also finds things I want too in places I didn't think to look.

[@tarasturntable6583]

Excellent advice.

[@jobarrios]

Pretty complete list, the main advice, in my opinion is just relax, don't get caught in the hype and enjoy!! Thanks for the video.

[@JohnCran]

I started "collecting" at a time when there was no other way to access music other than the radio. That has kept up with me so that now I buy what I can't get any other way (I don't like streaming). I have a number of albums that aren't available on Spotify so there you go.

[@Channel33RPM]

This is a good point -- I am often surprised by the albums I own (records and CDs) that are not available via the streaming services. Frank

[@LutherusPandragon]

First point is really important. If you look at most record collectors or hifi enthusiasts it i always buy edm buy lofi bu hiphop. No buy what you like and enjoy, not everyone has same taste

[@jacksondoughty]

Yes. Buy what you love. I’ve been buying cassettes that I adore front to back. If I would skip more than one track per side, I skip it. Plus, after enough plays I find myself understanding more clearly the importance of the tracks I used to skip while listening digitally. Anyone have an album recommendation released on cassette that has no skips? I love discogs. But I also really love finding gems locally from second hand stores or record shops.

[@QoraxAudio]

Second vinyl commandment: BUY AS MANY GUNS AS YOU CAN AND USE THEM ON CROSLEY RECORDPLAYERS! 😀 Like a true American *yeeeehaw!* 🤠 Lol jokes aside... I agree, don't build a record "collection"... records are meant to be listened to - not to be collected.

[@georgemusic4all4seasons]

If you all don’t mind, are we trying to complicate the music listening experience/hobby? I will break it down as follows: .buy what you enjoy . Collect what you want . Enjoy enjoy enjoy enjoy Watching someone who has a wall full of records should not, at all ever influence someone to fill up there wall with records. Why would it???? You put on a great show, but come on, This one I don’t know. It reminds me of a comic collector who has a show and put one out recently titled, “how to collect comic books and still make time for your family”. Any who, interesting show just a little baffled. Take care and be well.

[@snerp]

I agree with the list, good advise. Just don't let record snob influence what you need in your collection. Also stay away from Discogs, you will be more disappointed than happy with what you end up with...the return process is also a pain, and some sellers very dishonest. Yes I'm bitter, I lost $200 on an Alice Cooper Billion Dollar Babies so called archive/never played record. The seller lied about the condition, it wasn't even worth $1.00. I was promised to be reimbursed once I re-sent the record (on my dime) ...sent it back and eventually I was ignored and lost $$$. Discogs said they couldn't help and Paypal wouldn't help.

[@Channel33RPM]

Oh, that sucks. Sorry to hear. The unscrupulous sellers ruin it for the good ones. Frank