Top 10 Costly Mistakes New Vinyl Record Collectors Make | Talking About Records

The learning curve for new vinyl record collectors is steep. It simply takes time to understand the intricacies of the hobby. Buying, carrying for, and enjoying the experience of listening to records can take years to perfect. In this video we break down a handful of costly mistakes new collectors tend to make when starting down the path of becoming a record collecting expert.
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[@tumbleweedconnection7906]

Great list of mistakes. Might I add "don't buy what others tell you is good or classic, buy what you like regardless of what others think."

[@emancaindec9731]

I agree. Buy only the albums that you'll like to listen to on repeat. It's not worth buying an album that has 16 songs but you only like to listen to one song only.

[@jamesherman3750]

@@emancaindec9731 An exception to this is if you want an OST of something. For example, I just bought my favorite Anime OST. Although I only like a few songs

[@zestyut1344]

I agree,I do that myself but trying to stop

[@davidbeeson9408]

Absolutely spot on.

[@MasikoY]

This is the same rule I use for movie collecting. There's tons of movies I dont have that are classics because I just don't care for them.

[@dawnpatrol700]

Boston's first album, Cars first album or Rumours actually ARE greatest hits lol

[@erics8757]

Another mistake is overlooking the dollar bins at your local record store. The one I go to has thousands and I've bought a few hundred from these bins, many of which are in minty Condition. It's also a cheap way to try something new you've never heard of without wasting a lot of money. ( My Blow Monkeys album comes to mind 😄 ) you'll also find big artists, like Billy Joel, Eagles, Jackson Browne, Genesis, you name it... not just Herb Albert's Whipped Cream And Other Delights.

[@Aprilseahorse]

So I lost over 1,000 LPs from the mid 50s to the late 70s in a flood several years ago, along with 2 really nice turntables. Most were first release that I picked up from my uncles that got them new. I hate to think about the value of some of them..... Now my granddaughter started to ask me about the 50 or so I had in my office that did not get lost. For Christmas she picked out a few new ones I picked up for her. That started me back thinking about the hobby again. On a fixed income, I look for 50s-60s stuff I did not really think about back then. I love the artwork in those time periods. So I explore Dicogs for art that I like, I price it for the cover and found it a treat if there are songs that grab my attention. Of course I look at one's I know to be good too, but the art/LP mystery can be fun as long as you price it that way. I am not looking to replace all I had, that is just too painful to think that deep in to it, but I see it now with a fresh set of eyes. Born Again From A Vinyl Mother!

[@NTXVinyl]

ohhh no!

[@anthonyburke223]

I’m sorry to hear this ..my dad lost records in a flood but a friend of his took them all …cleaned and dried them and the covers …I now own them and they are fine

[@emancaindec9731]

SUMMARY: 0:55 - #1: Don't invest enough at their turntable. (Don't skimp at your turntable, but not necessary to spend about thousands of dollars on a turntable, buy the best turntable THAT YOU CAN AFFORD) 3:14 - #2: They don't know how to take care of the vinyl, jacket, sleeves (e.g. touching grooves, improper handling) 5:02 - #3: Don't just buy the greatest hits (album compilation). [IMO, this is personally subjective, just buy that you'll want to listen to repeatly.] 7:14 - #4: They only buy new records. They don't try to explore looking at used records. 9:08 - #5: They don't clean used records. 10:55 - #6: Not organizing your records from day one. 12:06 - #7: Not listing what records do they own (not cataloging), they don't have a reference when buying a record, they didn't realize they already own that record. (Keep a list) 13:51 - #8: Not putting enough value on the space that they're going to listen to a record. (Have a dedicated space for listen to your vinyl) 15:06 - #9: Don't limit yourself to one genre style. (again, this is subjective) 17:26 - #10: Don't collect for the value, collect it for the music. (Buy only the vinyl that you want listening to.)

[@NTXVinyl]

thanks for the summary!

[@koylesmasterpeice]

Making the mistakes is part of the fun, it helps you understand what really matters. In the end you know that what you have suits you. No Regrets.

[@brettallenthomas]

great hints.. my only caveat to not buying a cheap record player is: this is exactly what got me listening to Vinyl again.. My wife bought me an all in one record player after we had pulled out an old box of her records from the 80's that had been in a closet for 25 years. I was excited about them and so for christmas she bought me an all in one so I could listen to the records we had.. although I knew this was a beginner record player, this was just enough to get me interested enough in getting seriously back into vinyl that I kept my eyes open for a quality vintage turntable at garage sales and Thrift stores.. I managed to pick up a Technics SL-d303 in great shape for $15 did a basic restoration on it, nand now im fully into the vinyl world.. without that cheap all-in-one, I probably wouldnt have gotten the bug again...

[@NTXVinyl]

That’s a great point! They do make for a good entry or re-entry into the hobby for a lot of people

[@christopherpounds1383]

So if you're new to this hobby...listen to this guy. He hit every nail on the head.

[@NTXVinyl]

Dude. THANK YOU!!!

[@disrespectz]

I would like to second the statement about buying genres you normally dont listen to. I listen to more than anything is “ lofi relax hiphop” well…. Now i listen to classical like Bach, Mozart, and symphonic stuff. I agree get out of the comfort zone and spend that $1 to buy that record your not sure about. Unfortunately my go to listening genre i can only find in brand new pressings so those purchases are a treat to my self now and then. After this video ( as of writing this, this is only the 2nd i watch from your channel, you made me subscribe. Good info that is explained well, straight forward and respectful. I appreciate that from a content creator. Awesome work!

[@SludgeMan90]

Man this channel is fantastic for anyone new to Vinyl. I've been a music fan for years and only recently got a turntable and started collecting, and this channel has been gold.

[@NTXVinyl]

Thanks so much! Glad you found us

[@MD-ww4bh]

Turntable tip is great one. That's the thing you will interact with the most, have a nice tone arm and stylus / cartridge. I bought a Rega P2 from around 1980 with a new motor for £220. I fully serviced it myself and added an upgraded Rega tonearm, it's a lovely thing and sounds great and I enjoy using it and looking after it.

[@vinylterry]

I just stumbled on your channel. Longtime collector but appreciated this list and your approach. Too many people are talking down to newbies. No need to beat up on people for buying cheap record players, but as you explained, the cost of records makes investing in a better, inexpensive setup ideal.

[@NTXVinyl]

Thanks man! And totally agree

[@thijsvanveghel377]

I have an additional tip about cleaning second hand records. I always make 1 liter mixture with: 99,9 isopropyl alchol, destilled water and a drop of dishwashing liquid (only 100% natural stuff, not colored and certainly without lemon or something). 35 percent must be alcohol and 65 percent must be destilled water. Use the mixture in a spindle (like Disco Antistat). Brush first and then turn every record 10 times around. Let the vinyl dry up for 1,5 - 2 hours; depends on the inside temperature. This will give amazing results; all fingerprints will be off, dirty stuff that is deeper in the grooves will be cleaned and static noise is gone. Only use the mixture once, don't filter it. Good Plus/Very Good will become Very Good Plus (but of course only if there no damage because of scratches).

[@NTXVinyl]

great tips!

[@thevinyltruffle]

Edit: I wrote this before you mentioned it. Guess it was a lot of wasted words. I would say CATALOGING is very important. Wether thru a spreadsheet or thru Discogs. Luckily, I had a lot of the VCs experience before I started collecting. So I avoided many pitfalls. I starting cataloging my collection right away. Over the years I’ve ran into a lot of ppl who didnt. You get to this point, once you have a few hundred records, or even less, that it becomes almost impossible to keep track of. People end up buying records that they already own. Or not buying a record because they thought they already had it, because once they had considered buying it. Cataloging a collection once you are 400 records, or 1,000 records in is no easy task. At that point, the amount of work involved may prevent you from doing it. But if you catalogue from the beginning, one or five records at a time, it’s easy peasy.

[@davidbeeson9408]

I’m still using my 90’s separates. I Love it. It was good enough then & is still good enough now, for my money.

[@davidbeeson9408]

Greatest hits, or Best of’s, are great. As long as you have the albums of that artist aswell, they can compliment those. Enjoying the videos by the way, you make some great points.

[@zachary_attackery]

I don't think people realize that most reissues are like 10 to 20 dollars more expensive than original pressings most of the time. I literally just went to a record show and got first presses of every Zeppelin album for $15 each. Every vendor had a ton of them. If you go in Walmart they have the reissues for $30

[@NTXVinyl]

I get it. I really do. But new collectors have no idea how to navigate the world of pre-owned/used records. They don't know where/how to find them. They don't know what's good versus bad. They don't know grading/pricing. All of that is foreign to them. So...paying extra for a pristine, brand new, sealed in shrink record is a smarter purchase for that buyer. I see this every day.

[@yutopia7]

I actually had many instances where I actually regret buying the vintage original pressings because the reissue/remasters sounds way way better. I’m not talking about highly rare, sought after pressings. These cost $5/each for a good reason because nobody wants them. That extra $10-$20 is totally worth it.

[@jimgroce9487]

If you are buying used vinyl from the 60s 70s and even later there is a very good chance the record has never been cleaned. When I was a kid the most I ever did was wipe a record on my t shirt. One of the best things I did was to buy a record cleaning machine. Totally worth the money.

[@NTXVinyl]

100%!!!!

[@jimgroce9487]

@@NTXVinyl BTW, I live in Frisco and will check out your place soon.

[@sampoernaquatrain1710]

Great video! I really appreciate your hard-core, no-BS approach. It's refreshing to find a channel like yours among the many that discuss vinyl on YT. I know you alluded to this, but we should be honest with new collectors that this is a pretty expensive hobby! I think lots of folks don't realize that, or try to do it cheaply, and do more harm than good. You need hardware, accessories, media, storage, inner sleeves, outer sleeves, cleaning equipment...it never ends. I read where somebody said this is the ONE form of media that will last our lifetimes if we take care of it, and it's true. On that subject, I can't echo enough the importance of cleaning records. In my personal opinion, the only way to do this right, and thoroughly, is by using a vacuum system. Grooves are microscopic, and everything else just pushes the crap further into them.

[@NTXVinyl]

Thanks so much! Really appreciate you watching

[@johng.4711]

Great tips and great delivery! I’ll definitely send this to anybody who expresses an interest in vinyl.

[@stevepayant6771]

Really liked your take on newbies mistakes vs other similar video, especially #10, although not too sure cataloging is for newbies. Started collecting recently and didnt even think about cataloging in the future so tx for the heads up I can see the trouble ahead, but atm i can garantee you i damn know every records i bought lol don't have enought not too up to 13 atm and waiting on 14 to land from europe

[@bonzostarr]

Thank you!

[@casspirburns]

Here’s an expensive lesson I learned. Learn the grading standards when buying records second hand remotely. Experienced collectors can smell an inexperienced buyer and their VG is usually crap you can’t play. Go for VG+, NM or M only. If a seller says “mostly VG” or similar, they’re being vague in an area where you need full transparency and it’s a red flag. Get a video of the vinyl and don’t buy from them if they’re too lazy or avoid doing that. Sleeves as well. Check both sides not just the front.

[@NTXVinyl]

Great advice for sure! I always preach to buy from trusted sellers.

[@drwisdom1]

I agree with Mr. NTX's assessment about "Best of" albums. I have 30 feet of LPs from when I was young, but only a few of those are best of albums. I never liked them because they contain the band/artist's most popular songs, not their best songs. I grew up listening to Led Zeppelin albums, so when I hear their best of I am disappointed because the songs are out of order. If an artist/band is worth owning, then you should buy their original releases rather than the best of compilation.

[@erico888]

I think best-of's and intelligently chosen compilations are an excellent way for someone to expand their tastes. They can dip their toe in without much expense. Marley's "Legend' and 'The Harder They Fall' soundtrack are fine introductions to reggae, easy to find and not expensive, I've recommended those to people who didn't know much about reggae as good starting points.

[@NTXVinyl]

I don’t disagree. Just encourage collectors to not stop at the hits….dig deeper.

[@erico888]

@@NTXVinyl I got your point, but I will say, some greatest hits/best-ofs are all anyone needs of a certain group, like the Eagles ;)

[@mokasasu4ever]

really enjoy your channel! :) I have just started collecting and am looking forward taking care of them and listening to lots of music :)

[@NTXVinyl]

Cheers! Thanks for watching

[@latheofheaven]

YEAH BABY! *Don't* touch the grooves... 😁 Excellent, excellent suggestions Bro! You are really helping a lot of people out there 👍 I really liked the 'Greatest Hits' comment, wouldn't have thought of that... Also, your comment about carefully checking the used vinyl and learning the difference between just dirt and damage. I personally always take a small lighted magnifying glass with me and it *REALLY* helps! Last week at a really nice little hole in the wall, but long established used record store near me here about 30 miles north of San Diego, I was able to score some really lovely and pretty darn CLEAN copies of Romeo Void, Santana's Welcome, and 2 Hunters and Collectors albums, all in beautifully clean condition (the cover of Welcome was pretty beat) but all the vinyl after running them though my DIY Vacuum/Rinse & DIY Ultrasonic RCMs turned out lovely and quiet, and they were all only about $4 to $5 each! 😊 Heh... and YES! *ORGANIZE!* I am just NOW after over 40 years of doing this starting to catalog my stuff on Discogs (GREAT suggestion!) But... from the start I have kept a detailed Word Document file with all my stuff cataloged in Genres and alphabetized. And YES! I always do have a continuing updated copy downloaded on my telephone for when I go to record stores 😊 And, YES! Most definitely try different stuff. About 20 - 30 years ago my friend and I used to take the day and go to all the used record stored in the San Diego area. And, back then, there were many albums in the discount sections, and I would routinely grab a ton of albums that either looked interesting by the artwork or album titles or group names, and if they caught my eye I would buy them. Back then we're talking like $2 - $4 a record. And, that way I got a frigg'n *TON* of stuff that nobody has ever heard of that is great! Lots of garage band/Psychedelia, really off-the-wall Alternative stuff. Great albums! And, somehow I almost always guessed right and I really ended up liking almost all the albums I bought that way (Sorry about the LONG comment, but your awesome suggestions *REALLY* got me going here! 😃) I sure wish I had a way to send you pictures of my system and collection, but usually any comments with links are automatically deleted...

[@NTXVinyl]

Thanks for watching! Msg us anytime on FB or Instgram.

[@MommasRecords]

Great set of tips. I couldn't agree more about getting a good table to start.

[@NTXVinyl]

Thanks so much for watching!

[@erico888]

Golden era of hi-quality, relatively inexpensive turntables that don't require any expertise to set up.

[@christopherklinck]

Enjoyed this one; agree with all of these.

[@NTXVinyl]

Thanks for watching!

[@bodensick]

Best tip...buy used vinyl that is in VG+ to NM condition. I've been buying from used stores and eBay for years. Original vinyl with almost always be worth more in the long run than new pressings.

[@NTXVinyl]

Yeah maybe...but originals will also cost you a lot more, and is harder to find. So depends on your reason for buying. Many folks just want to own the music - regardless of pressing/value/etc

[@jesseross6029]

I can't agree more with your music over value point. There is only one record in my collection of 200+ that I bought specifically for the value. It's an ORIGINAL 1964 Beatles I want to Hold Your Hand 45 with the original picture sleeve, both in VG+ condition. I scored that on ebay last year. Even though I treasure its value (I'm a diehard Beatles fanatic) I don't intend to sell it for profit. I just appreciate the music and the history. I also like what you said about full albums vs. greatest hits. Another band I'm really a big fan of is The Who and sure, I can get Pinball Wizard on any compilation, but hearing the entire rock opera Tommy album...beautiful. Great video!

[@NTXVinyl]

Thanks so much for watching!

[@stephenjerome4135]

Great list of tips here. One tip I think I'm going to start doing now is cataloguing my collection. I know I'm probably one of the most guilty ones of going into a shop and I see an album and I'm there thinking have I got this one already, because I do sometimes forget if I got something in my collection, I buy it only to find I already have it. Keeping a list of what I own on my phone so it's always with me when I go into shops sounds like a very good idea. You have inspired me. Thanks .

[@NTXVinyl]

Great to hear! And yes...we've all been there. Having em logged and easily accessible while shopping is critical

[@mentalmadness2192]

totally - when I get into a "real" record store, I'm easily overwhelmed by not knowing where to start and what to look for. So I always end up with my fav. genres and look for familiar stuff. I took some risks by name recognition only and it paid off, but not always. I try to bring myself to just try new stuff out. sometimes I'm just kinda afraid to get something I don't like which takes up space.

[@tball5677]

I started buying records way back in 1978. Back then we bought them just to enjoy.

[@nelsonmaud1]

I tell people all the. Time if you think you are buying albums because there going up in value your in the wrong hobby go collect gold or stocks some of my favorite albums are are worth under 10$ there a few from the 80s worth 40 or 50 but I bought back in the day its a needle in a haystack finding rare albums usually the most popular are worth the least as a rule of thumb

[@MsKalachakra]

You rule man ! This is by far my favorite video of yours. Specially I liked when you talked about genres, that is the best way to enjoy music, to open your mind and listen to all kinds of music from all over the world. Did that a long time ago and now I have more than 70 genres (vinyl and CD's combined). Yes, don't get a record because of value and also because you are keeping other person from enjoying it while you won't, like getting multiple copies and things like that. I think it's like being selfish lol. Other thing I loved you talked about is the greatest hits. I always try to get the original albums of course, but in some occasions a best of or a compilation would do, if it's a rare one, or a really complete one when you don't have anything by the band, or if their albums are too expensive. Or maybe is a best of from a punk band with only 2 or 3 albums. Greatest Hits is not the same as a best of or a compilation. Normally the greatest hits suck, while the best of would have deep cuts. For example I found a wonderful Kinks double compilation with the best from their late 60's albums that are so hard to find these days, like Lola or Something Else. I want to ask you about cataloging your records. My collection is too huge by now and I just won't find the time to do it on discogs, so I need to find a simpler way. Even Excell got difficult for me, tried it once using only the name of band and record, still a lot of time spent, so I stopped doing it, wish there were an easier way.

[@NTXVinyl]

Appreciate it man! Cataloging is a simple fact of life while collecting (anything). No way around putting in the work - no matter which way you choose to do it.

[@dansheldon1762]

I've always been a singles kind of guy so I love greatest hits collections. I have hundreds of greatest hits in my collection LOL! I enjoyed this video.

[@NTXVinyl]

Thanks Dan!

[@aus80srockradio94]

Amen to the comment about people buying rubbish turntables! So many people do this, it's insane....

[@NTXVinyl]

Agreed!

[@seand67]

Great advice

[@NTXVinyl]

Thanks!

[@DorianPaige00]

Greatest hits can give you bang for buck especially with today's high prices. Consider 45's as they are cheaper and have the hit version.

[@stevieg1227]

Great list. I was a little anxious before starting to watch, as I only started collecting records like 5 years ago. But glad to hear that I didn‘t make many of these mistakes, at least not to a significant degree. But what I take from this is that my focus should shift more to preowned records and new music styles… From personal experience I want to add: Be patient! If you have a record on your wantlist and currently there is only a pressing out that does not have the best reviews or you don‘t really need the record right away, just wait. Often at some time a new one will come out, sometimes limited edition, better mixing, nice color (yes, they get me with that), etc… Obviously this goes for people that prefer to buy new records.

[@stevenj2380]

Genre, then as well as I can by year. I do it for CDs too. Sorry I did not catalogue. I almost know every CD but used to re-buy 1 per ea. 600 I had OMG. And the lesser amount of classical I has is really confounding to 'classify' and keep track of.

[@farrellmcnulty909]

Great video, I appreciated you mentioning the Discogs app to catalogue my albums. One question - would it work as well on a PC as it would on the phone? thanks.

[@patriciawilson9666]

I've commited every single one of these "mistakes" when it suited my purposes and i've never ever considered organizing let alone cataloging(!) my LP's.I know what i have and what i don't.Especially what i still don't have after all these years.If i find a beat up copy of "Newk's Time" for example it'll have to do 'till a better one comes along. For some artists a Greatest Hits or Best of is the only viable option.Like they used to say about the Turtles Greatest Hits.The only one in the catalog is the only one you could ever want. I love how old records are called "vintage" now.Cool! The only real tip here is if you see that copy of "Slip it In" you've been lusting after and can't afford hide that sucker in the Easy Listening bins until you can.File it under Perry Como or Jerry Vale and you can't go wrong. You should have named the title of this video record collecting for the anal-retentive.It would have been far more accurate.

[@NTXVinyl]

Tell us how you really feel Patricia

[@patriciawilson9666]

@@NTXVinyl Sure.If you run across a copy of Gary Puckett and the Union Gap's Greatest Hits grab it.Same goes for Gordon Lightfoot (R.I.P.) and Tommy James for that matter. Anything from Al Green's classic period on Hi Records would be a wise purchase. Don't get ripped off trying to get an original pressing of King Crimson's In the Court of the Crimson King.The prices are almost always over inflated even on beat to hell copies.Same goes for Funkadelic's One Nation Under a Groove. When all else fails go to Discogs and don't ever pay more than $50.00 for Miles Davis' Round Midnight.Just don't. And if you go brick and mortar watch out for douchebag record store owners.They will naturally assume they know more than you do.Most of the time they won't.(see Dunning-Kruger effect)

[@wandagreer9144]

Please, I love your vids and have learned a lot from you - even though I have been collecting over 60 years. I do appreciate learning more. But I'd like to ask that you don't encourage newbies to rip off the shrink wrap. Often, the hype stickers - even the price sticker - can enhance the value and help keep the cover more pristine. Even if one does use a poly over-sleeve, that extra layer of protection can matter. And of course, use the more modern soft poly type, and don't use the older, harder PVC type. The older ones are thicker yes, but, will yellow and the chemicals which make the sleeve can adhere to the cover and even seep inside and discolor the vinyl. If in the future the owner wants to sell it (I'll correct that - no one wants to sell them, but they may need the money) they will find the record can demand a higher dollar value. I find this to be a very costly mistake that many make. -- And thanks for the effort you make in your vids to help others. Way-to-go! --- One more tip for those who don't like streaming and live in a larger city --- often the public library will have records that one can check out, like a book. Some even have listening booths. This is a good way to try other genre's before one looks for the record. Sure they may be used, abused and scratchy, but it can give one a sense if they want to invest in that title for their own library. ... Enjoy the music!

[@NTXVinyl]

Great tips yourself! Thanks so much for watching!

[@paulaj2829]

I always say to yougsters who are about to get into Vinyl records start of buying a good 2nd hand Vintage Turntable , because they will learn to understand what the whole thing does.

[@johnwelch5132]

Very good advice. If they stay keen on playing records there are a few really good options when they’re older. The AT60 (fully automatic) with Edifier Speakers 1280, IF! They love playing records and want to take it forward, is the very affordable (if budget allows) best package one could ever have.

[@steevenfrost]

I would say an indication of a good turntable, is one that you can adjust the tracking weight of the cartridge and stylus. What do you think? Turntable maybe needs to be on a sound level surface The classic albums are classic because of the art of sequencing. How a record starts on side one is important and how the side ends same for side two. I notice recent issues of new vinyl are heavier. Is that necessarily better? Older L.P's I have, are not so heavy yet some can play better. Second hand records may look clean, but, it depends on what condition the stylus was when record was last played on turntable.

[@henrys3629]

My 1st turntable was a Sony PS-T15 I bought used for $15 back in the 90's.

I understand what you mean on the greatest hits compilations, and I understand your point of view as a record shop owner, but I as a greatest hits, best of, etc collector have different opinion. Many of these albums are curated and approved by the artists themselves. For example the latest collection of Kim Wilde all curated by her, with exclusive tracks and new remixes. Other examples include compilations of bands that, really, had 2 or 3 hits like for example Cock Robin, and their best of, includes songs that were not singles. So, of course I will buy the albums if I want to, but I love these compilations because all the hits are there, and new songs also and remixes.

[@NTXVinyl]

For sure! I own a ton of hits compilations as well, and many of them are great because of the exact reasons you mentioned. For newbies, it's just a point to keep in mind...to NOT forget that artists have tons of albums that are well worth it too.

[@yutopia7]

I actually had many instances where I actually regret buying the vintage original pressings because the reissue/remasters sounds way way better. I’m not talking about highly rare, sought after pressings. The ones I’m talking about cost $5/each for a good reason because nobody wants them. That extra $10-$20 is totally worth it.

[@mentalmadness2192]

"space" haha, 1-room apartment here! 🤭

[@aussierob7177]

The most costly mistake both new and old record collectors make is to not thoroughly clean new records before you play them. You will need a record cleaning machine. A mold release agent. Record cleaning fluid. And record preservative. If this is not done to a brand new record, then there will be irreversible damage to the record after the very first play.

[@NTXVinyl]

Great tip!

[@showdown2006]

If you’re buying MJ vinyls thriller and Bad have enough singles on those albums themselves

[@NTXVinyl]

no doubt!

[@robertwoodward9231]

Great vid..Do you think my older technics d202 is a pretty good turntable? Thanks.

[@NTXVinyl]

Not familiar with that specific model, but most vintage Technics have a great reputation for sound and durability.

[@TripleE76]

Because of mistake #2, mistake #11 not being careful who you buy used from and never go less than vg+, unless you like the snap, crackle, pop.

[@staggerlee6794]

I would also add on the "Greatest Hits" issue is rather than go for a greatest hits compilation go for a 'Best of' compilation instead. I know the difference is only subtle but I personally think you get a better reflection of the artist's work.

[@alansenzaki4148]

First and most imortant : condition of vinyl...vg+,vg++, nm-, nm, or mint.

[@robstl314]

As a new collector, my biggest mistake so far is underestimating just how expensive this hobby can be. I bought a vintage Rotel integrated amp, receiver, turntable and some Yamaha NS-670 speakers from my local record shop for about $400. So, equipment wise I thought I started off on the right foot. I realized I should probably change out the stylus. I did some research and figured I'd just replace the whole cartridge instead. Found some reviews that raved about the Schiit Mani preamp with a Nagaoka MP-110 cartridge. I had the means so I got those too. Tack on another $300 (I could have done without or gone cheaper but I know I would have upgraded later and these two items can be transferred to a different turntable) This is actually still cheaper than the system I was piecing together on Amazon. Then I dropped around $300 on new records at various places. I'm at around $1k now (where I wanted to be) and I just keep finding other things that I need that are costly as well. New inner and outer sleeves - $40?!?. I have a record brush but I still need to get cleaning supplies. There is more up front cost than I expected. Can I enjoy the hobby without some of these things? Yeah but I feel as though the listening experience would be negatively impacted and if I allow that what's the point, right? Great video! The only thing I think I've done that you mentioned was the greatest hits. I don't have many albums yet and I figured that they are the best bang for my buck. The biggest regret I have is not buying more music that I haven't already heard a million times. So my suggestion is to step out of the box a bit so you have things to listen to while you build your collection.

[@NTXVinyl]

Great feedback! And you're absolutely correct on upfront costs. It's an investment for sure, but if you're in it for the long haul worth every penny.

[@christopherpounds1383]

Honestly, you did pretty dang good to start off. This can be far more costly than 1k. So I say good job and good mindset not just looking for the cheapest stuff you can find because you'd just be disappointed afterwards. That's the fastest way to kill the fun of this hobby for people just starting. They give up when they do that. Just keep trucking along. Your record collection will grow over time. Hit local record stores and buy used as much as possible and learn what to look for on the vinyl when you are buying. Dust, dirt....thats fine. Clean them before playing. Gauges, big scratches and things like that...put it back and don't waste your money. Always inspect used records before buying. You can get 100 packs of outer sleeves off eBay for like 25 bucks. You can do the same for inner anti static sleeves. Also, check all of your local fb marketplace listing and Craigslist etc for record collections on sale. If you can get a collection for 100 bucks and only find 30 albums you want to keep, you just got 30 albums for 100 bucks. Donate the rest or sell them. Just a few extra pointers.

[@QoraxAudio]

I agree on all points, except for buying vintage records... buying proper quality used records is very hard... They're often used on shitty BSR changers in the past, so they have a ton of burned in IGD... Or they're just abused... or they have unremoveable mold on them... and records dating back to the oil crisis are very, very thin and flimsy (often 120 grams or less - basically the opposite end to the 180grams overweight fad). IMO, buying used records is only viable if you're in a store so that you're able to view the records (relying on gradings from Discord sellers isn't really reliable IME). And of course, you just NEED a fancy vacuum or ultrasonic cleaner to clean off 30 or 40 years of dust, grease, mold and cigarette tar. To keep it simple, just get new, good remasters, do some basic cleaning by hand and off you go! 👍

[@NTXVinyl]

I get it all that. But a big part of the joy of collecting (for me) is the thrill of the hunt, to find something unique, that has been loved, and will make a great album in your collection - even if it has a little wear on it.

[@QoraxAudio]

@@NTXVinyl Ah yes that's quite different... to me, the reason for playing records is the sound quality, the interaction with the physical media and ownership. I don't want to spend hours on "hunting" for records... I want to spend those hours on playing records, learning about the music and music equipment.

[@anthonyburke223]

You make a good point about buying new records ..I do that too but I’ve also discovered Japanese pressings ..which in Australia are way better than Australian pressings..maybe less bass but more finesse. Not cheap though

[@zarolhokids]

I don't know if it is a Canadian issue, but most of the "vintage" records are priced a couple of dollars below new ones... So, yeah, no. I would rather stay with new ones in a lot of cases.

[@breauxman]

I have seen alot of collectors who store their jackets in plastic sleeves and their vinyl in rice paper inner sleeves and keep the vinyl/inner sleeve outside of the jacket but inside of the outer plastic sleeve. Is this a good way to store everything or is it asking for damage to the vinyl itself?

[@NTXVinyl]

That can be a great way to reduce ring wear and prevent handling the jacket over and over. I do this with my more valuable LPs. As long as you're careful pulling them on/off the shelf it's a great way to store your records.

[@t3dewys]

I’m around 1300 albums and 99% of them are new. I rarely find anything in the used bins that I’m interested in.

[@aus80srockradio94]

What sort of outer sleeves to you keep your LP's in? I made a the BIG mistake in year 2000 of buying 2000 PVC type thick covers, and yes 22 years later I have just realised the DAMAGE these cause, as I'm sure you are well aware of the fogginess etc that this has caused. I am thinking about replacing them all with the Polypropelene? thinner type sleeves - but this will be an expensive exercise : (

[@NTXVinyl]

Yes, all polypropelene.

[@garyharper2943]

My advice if buying used, stick with mint - and people that actually listened before grading, otherwise you’ll be disappointed. Some $3000 devices can remove clicks and pops but nothing can remove a skip.

[@henrys3629]

Don't buy Adele's new album for $40, I bought mine new for $10 that a record store was blowing out on RSD to get customers to the store.

[@vinylsolution2522]

Don't remove the Shrink Wrap! Slice it open gently, keep the hype stickers! Buy packs of record sleeves, japanese resealable are best!

[@tomtester5732]

I agree if it's a standard cardboard jacket. But if it's a gatefold I want to be able to unfold it and check out the inside.

[@monaural2.988]

Gotta disagree with you SOMEWHAT (note that word) regarding Greatest Hits albums. I do agree when it comes to a handful of classic acts like The Beatles, but quite a few acts didn’t have the solid craft in their units to consistently serve good albums. There’s quite a bit of crud that should have been weeded out back in the day, and it doesn’t hurt to start with a Best of if you’re just getting to know the artist/band in question. THEN take on the “album journey”. And DON’T discount how good pre-“Sgt. Pepper” era albums can be!

[@NTXVinyl]

right on! I hear ya....on both points

[@delfyr1]

Great points across the board. The thing I question though are the prices you mention... I'd love to find a store where I could buy Vinyl for $10-20.... Thats RARE here in Michigan at least. Even the "Used" Stores are charging collector premiums. Rarely am I seeing anything at a store under $20 anymore... typically $24+ Minimally. I also realize this was posted originally a year ago but it popped up on my radar today :P so figure others might have a similar coment.

[@wandagreer9144]

Have you tried eBay? I have gotten a lot of good albums and 45s there. Just watch for sellers that use generic pics and do not give full details in the listing - I have never had success with those sellers. If someone is just selling and is not a collector, they will sell something for pennies instead of dollars.

[@Dazlidorne]

5:47 Dire Straits "Brothers in Arms" album is a great example of this. Side one has many of the top hits of the album and is more upbeat. Flip to side two and it has a totally different feel. More mellow. Not their hits, but amazing songs in their own right that you would never hear if you bought a greatest hits album or just listened to the radio.

[@NTXVinyl]

Totally agree! Another reason I love the vinyl format and experience - it forces you to consume the entire album, as the artist intended

[@unityoc]

Great tips. Probably a personal preference thing but alphabetical order doesn't mean much to me, and even if you use it do you go by title or by artist? Do you count "The" or skip that and sort by the second word if the first is "The"? It's too messy, genre, year or label (ro a combination of these) feels much more natural to me.

[@NTXVinyl]

Band name or artist last name (not counting "A", "The", etc.) - separated within genre

[@staggerlee6794]

I had nearly 400 albums before I put my albums in alphabetical order. Took me an entire weekend. So wish I had started it sooner and I still have all the CDs to do. Please send help.

[@fanitram]

is that dividers that look like records?

[@NTXVinyl]

Indeed! Made them myself from junk records. Just glue them to an old jacket and add stick on letters from a hobby store

[@roberthobson9085]

RING WEARS KILLS THE VALUE

[@chauncygardiner9572]

If you're buying new records, be careful. Most new vinyl is pressed from digital sources. The same files that were used for the cd. There's no reason to pay the ridiculous prices they charge for new vinyl unless you are sure that it is analog (even then you should buy a used original). Just get the cd. ALWAYS buy used if possible. That goes for cd's and vinyl. The joy of collecting is finding stuff for 10 cents on the dollar. Anyone can go out and buy new or pay collectors prices for used.

[@jaquan123ism]

yes clean your records i got a spin wash and the water was disgusting and these were records that looked clean

[@mrpetit2]

#1 mistake is not storing your records vertical/upright. So many people leave space in their record cabinet and let the records sit diagonal. Sure easier to flip through, but your records will get warped...

[@NTXVinyl]

Great tip for sure!

[@AttackFromDownunda]

I think one mistake new record collectors make is trying to get everything. Its easy to buy a ton of stuff that may be costly and not listening to them. Be patient and save your money to spend on your most wanted albums or grails.All your non-essential purchases will add up, for those three records you bought that were " Meh! or o.k " you maybe could have got one record you absolutely treasure.

[@NTXVinyl]

Great tip for sure! Focus on the LPs you really love. The others will come over time.

[@thetownspeople6486]

Unfortunately used and vintage records = snap, crackle and pop 90% of the time. Cleaning is great, and believe me I clean them, but abuse is abuse. I only buy Mint or M- (NM) from independent dealers which is almost always new re issued unopened copies and usually 180 grams these days.

[@drwisdom1]

So back in 1986 the Bruce Springsteen "Live 1975-1985" five LP box set came out to positive reviews. I am not a Springsteen fan, I like John Mellencamp better. But my brother loves Springsteen so I figured I needed to have some and bought that box set. It is still in the original shrinkwrap. One could say that was unwise and a waste of money, but at the time I looked at it as filling out my collection.

[@chrisames2795]

Whats with Discogs alphabetical rules? I had to reorganize using artists first name ahhhhhh. Bob Dylan and David Bowie Miles Davis Dave Brubek Cher Sting Madona easy.

[@NTXVinyl]

That annoys me as well. I organize by last name for sure

[@Robert-nf9fi]

Don't waste your time and money unless you're rich oh you are😂😂😂😂 goahead😂

[@mjanovec]

Quality over quantity. Lots of new collectors try to build a collection too fast, buying lots of mediocre quality records instead of carefully investing in high quality examples. A collection of 200 great LPs is better than a collection of 2000 junky LPs, The days of finding great albums in the dollar bin are long over (for the most part). I do disagree somewhat with your take on greatest hits albums. I’m okay with greatest hits records for bands that were mostly singles artists. Some artists admittedly put a lot of filler on their regular studio albums. A greatest hits album is also a nice way to listen to artists you have only a moderate interest in. If you develop greater interest, you can then dive deeper. Otherwise for some artists, a greatest hits collection may be all you need.

[@Robert-nf9fi]

Hi I'm abbey 😂😂😂😂😂😂😂 alot of records😢🤔

[@dietmarsteiner1070]

The most costly mistake of buying new vinyl records IS buying new vinyl records!

[@NTXVinyl]

Ummmmm. Nope.

[@dietmarsteiner1070]

@@NTXVinyl Examples? 72 seasons/Metallica black pressing 50€, yellow black splatter 90€ Memento mori/Depeche Mode 55€, Songs of surrender/U2 4LP 134€, which makes 67€ for 2LP! Maybe your money is growing on trees, but mine does not! Sorry, but the vinyl section of buying new music is dead!

[@garethde-witt6433]

Let face it vinyl is a terrible medium, it collects dust it scratches it is hard to look after and it takes up so much room. And it is ridiculously expensive. And most of all it really doesn’t sound that good.

[@NTXVinyl]

Keep clicking that play button then 👋🏻