Vintage Vinyl Records Are So Expensive! And Why I Need To Get Over It!!!

[@BillyHurst]

Melinda, it's always great seeing fantastic new content from you. While I agree with you on most things you say, the biggest issue with the pricing on the vintage pre-owned vinyl is, as with anything, supply and demand. Remember, there is a finite amount of those records that still exist, and as you move into releases from the late 80's and beyond, there are even fewer of them to be had. On one hand you have the Billy Joel "Greatest Hits" 2LP set that has only been pressed one time way back in 1985, and for some reason the labels refuse to repress it, even though we all know that it would most likely have a $40-50 price tag new. However, since the 1985 version is the only thing out there, demand for Billy's records has drastically gone up because new collectors love his music, as do most of us older collectors. Hence the price point. Now, other things like the Def Leppard I don't see that much of a gap between a very nice condition OG and a brand new reissue...and I feel that's probably how it should be. Imagine if you were hunting down beautiful NM OG first pressings of early Metallica albums...what would you expect to pay for those, same as a newer reissue? Hardly not, and that simply because most collectors prefer a good, clean original over a new reissue...and they are saying so with their wallets. Same with records like the Journey and Quiet Riot records you talked about. Both new and older collectors will pay a little premium for something in very nice shape, with clean inserts and in shrink with original hype sticker. I totally get it, we all want to look back (mostly pre-pandemic) when prices were not as high as they are now, but I liken it to cars, houses, groceries, baseball cards, comics, etc. Prices on that stuff is not where it was 5, 10, 15, 20 years ago, and we all need to lighten up a little bit because as long as demand outweighs supply, that's just the way it is. Also, those of us who own record stores are forced to pay more for this stuff as well. Most sellers know they have several options like eBay, Facebook Marketplace, etc. therefore we can no longer buy this stuff for anywhere near what we were able to get it 5 years ago even, let alone 15-20 plus years ago. Those days are over....at least for now. These hobbies come and go for some people, and there will always be ups and downs and ebbs and flows. I just sit back and try not to get too worked up over it. I am glad you summarized the video with a lot of the points I made above, I'm just concerned that most viewers won't make it to the point int the video where you drive home the point as to why the pre-owned, clean, vintage records are priced the way they are. Sorry to leave such a long comment, but you know we are friends and we love and support each other along the way. I just felt I had to chime in on all of the "sky is falling" and what is bad about this industry/hobby as opposed to really telling everyone what we all love and enjoy about records and collecting. I really hope you guys are enjoying your new place in Florida, and it's always great interacting with you. Hope you have a very Happ Thanksgiving. Your friend, Billy-

[@MelindaMurphy]

Thank you so much Billy. I value your opinion so much and who better to say it than a record store owner!!! I hope people do watch the entire video because the whole point of it is to explain why records are more expensive and why we as consumers need to "get over it" as the title says. As a record store owner you are working extremely hard so that your store stands out for the best selection among other things. Every dollar you make is hard earned and I wish you all the success in the world. Thanks again. I will pin your comment so others can read and learn from a record collector/owner. I hope you, Tara and the family have a wonderful Thanksgiving. Take care.

[@annkopfer6713]

Replied to you.before...your post on thev'younger crowd' bringing in.the 'usual' to trade/sell I am record gig dealer (Its not just with the younger crowd)...folks dont know what they are looking at...cuz they dont know it! Many artists inc vet acts are on small labels that dont get the GP attention needed...nothing really new...yet its gotten worse as 'tastes have shrunk even more so' ' since the last decade and a half! Seems the gp will ,"gravitate" to the popular today and get easily bored with it! Seems when covid was loosening restrictions...mo money was left open to spend on the flat black and circular things (and were taking chances on music not known) Now its 2025...their ever shrinking "discrenatory income" is being allocated elsewhere ie "The Julie London Syndrome"...3 dollars or less pickens!

[@MichaelRMarshall1]

As a lifelong record collector/audiophile as well as having worked in three (3) different record stores selling new and used product while going to college (1986 through 1991) I feel compelled to add my two cents worth to your discussion on the cost of vinyl reissues vs their vintage counterparts. We have been (mostly) on the positive side cost wise with the reissues that have come out in the last 10+ years as the record companies have been producing well remastered and produced reissues. Several of the jazz labels have been doing an absolutely fantastic job reissuing their catalog (Blue Note, etc) and one can even argue that they sound even better than the originals which, in many cases, came out in the late 50's through the 1960's. This has certainly been the case with Analog Productions, Craft Recordings, MOFI and several other audiophile labels. The vintage jazz titles are also, ironically, some of THE most expensive and difficult vintage albums to find, in ANY condition! People/collectors/fans my age (57) are now looking to replace or buy again titles that remind us of our childhood (for me, I have been actively listening to music since I was 4 years old!) so the time frame of roughly the mid-1970's through the 1980's, is the sweet spot. Supply and demand in a capitalist society does and should have a part and place in setting a price for the things such as records. Nostalgia, scarcity and condition will ultimately determine what one sells and ultimately pays for a record. Now, I can also tell you that when I was the "used" buyer for the last record store that I worked in (Spirit Records and Video in Rancho Cordova, CA) the condition of the records that I saw in the "collections" that came to me or that I went to, were usually in good to poor condition but the seller was convinced that these records were worth "bucks". I would encourage you and your viewers to go to Discogs and research the album(s) you are interested in buying and look and see what their "high" "low" and "average" selling prices are. This will give you a pretty good indication of what any particular title is selling for in various conditions (mint, Near Mint, etc). Just be mindful that as every hour, day, month and year that passes, these vintage albums become even more scarce especially those in "Near Mint" condition with all the other things such intact cellophane with hype & price stickers, etc. Finally, for me, at least half the fun of collecting is searching for an album (or CD, SACD, etc) and finding it in the condition that is acceptable to me at a price I am willing to pay, is what keeps me coming back to a physical store front.

[@MelindaMurphy]

Thank you for bringing up so many important points. It's sad to think of all the vintage records that were destroyed or are currently being destroyed by keeping them in a hot attic or wet basement. Vintage albums are going to be more and more scarce. That's why they are going to always have value. I am also a big fan of the Blue Note reissues. I wouldn't be able to have near as many jazz records if I was having to buy vintage copies. The early pressings are way too expensive. Thank you and take care. ♥️🤗

[@stevec6727]

The golden age of Goodwill was an awesome time. Now either the thrift store is selling online or resellers are grabbing EVERYTHING.

[@Mr-Clark]

Indeed. A few years ago my local Goodwill would sell records for $1.99 - $2.99. $5.99 for ones with multi records and foldout sleeves. Today records start at $4.99 and up to $12.99. I simply refused and stopped buying. Today I enjoy high resolution digital music online.

[@buenaventuralife]

The old Goodwill store is no more. They have a deal with a for profit company to run them. I walked into my local store and it was just old clothes. Everything else is sold somewhere or online.

[@MelindaMurphy]

I have yet to see anything remotely nice at Goodwill stores when it comes to records. I guess now I know why. Thank you and take care. 🤗♥️

[@realjaxon]

I found a NM 6 LP Eric Clapton box set for $6 a few weeks ago. I saw the same box set at a used record store for $60. Schweet.

[@Pluralofvinylisvinyls]

I’d only ever find 70s classic rock at Goodwill. One huge near mint classic rock collection with everything being 99 cents, but I’ve never found anything rare at goodwill.

[@randydergantz]

Your comments made throughout this video were spot on! You clearly spelled it out as to what is involved in maintaining a record store, and surviving at the same time. For those that never gave this much thought, your comments were educational and informative. I have a large collection and have been considering to contact a record store for their offer. Thank you for discussing and bringing this topic to your viewers!

[@MelindaMurphy]

Thank you for the kind words. I appreciate the encouragement. I do feel for record store owners. They work long hours and every Saturday. ♥️ Most of these owners open a store because of their own passion for music. Not to get rich. Thank you and take care. ♥️🤗

[@londonrecordlover965]

Melinda what an excellent, thoughtful and well considered video. Really enjoyed it. For us collectors, records are for spending our fun money. For the stores, they need to make a living and if we squeeze them too hard they won’t be there any more and we will all suffer. Thanks for the great video and best wishes from London

[@MelindaMurphy]

I agree. We have to be good to the incredible record store owners. They have to pay the bills and make a living. Thank you and take care. ♥️🤗

[@Vitally14]

The record fairs near where I live have been on fire lately! I found a ton of classic rock and psychedelic music for $5-$15! Of course there were more valuable stuff and the occasional scam, but I walked away with 20 records with only around $200 spent! No tax or shipping. I understand that record stores are struggling in this economy and profit margins are tight, so I will occasionally still visit them to buy a record or two. But I’m taking my big bucks to the fairs. It just makes more sense

[@MelindaMurphy]

It’s amazing that you found so many records for such a great price. It’s always fun to go to record fairs! Nicely done!!! Thank you and take care. 🤗♥️

[@jackfalco5351]

Yep flea market in the next town I pay four dollars for excellent condition Records of course very rare stuff you won’t find there

[@billstill1794]

I love it when you rant - I share your despair! I stopped going to Record Store Day (and ALL record stores and shows) in 2018. I have been having fantastic luck finding rarities in the wild including quite a few considered "grails"! In fact, there were several common (and very mediocre) LPs you mentioned that I saw (and left for someone else) at Goodwill for a buck, ninety-nine. "Professional" record dealers know that they can take advantage of new vinyl buyers - especially the millennials and certainly the Gen Zer's! We older collector veterans know (or should know) better.

[@MelindaMurphy]

Wow! It's great that you are still able to find grails at thrift stores and the Goodwill for wonderful prices. That's not been my experience lately so thank you for the encouragement. ♥️🤗 Take care.

[@garyedwards7794]

1984. Min wage in Oregon was $3.10. Albums were $8 new. Had to work 2.58 hours to buy one. 2024 Minimum wage in Oregon is $14.70 Albums are $30. You have to work 2.04 hours to buy one. The $40-$50 albums are a different story. Great Video.

[@MelindaMurphy]

The price of new records really hasn't increased that much. That's a great example. A lot of people are having to pay higher prices for food and housing leaving them with no extra money at the end of the day. That's where the real problem lies. Thank you very much. Take care. 🤗♥️

[@buenaventuralife]

Total agreement about the prices on old records. Back to going to yard sales, scrounging around thrift stores, and asking around if anyone has records to get rid of.

[@MelindaMurphy]

I always tell myself that I need to go to garage sales but I never do. I bet it does pay off to go. I do go to thrift/antique stores often because I love going to those regardless. It's been a long time since I have found a good record in any of them. I hope you are having better luck. Thank you and take care. 🤗♥️

[@annkopfer6713]

​@@MelindaMurphynot necessarily or.not at all! The getting rid of crap from Grandmas attic is what will pop up! And the usual garden variety...Loverboy Boston.Foghat Foreigner Heart Elvis et al.mass produced music...fine ... but if one thinks Kate Bush Bjork PJ Harvey Slayer Type o Negative Samhain et al will show up for a song is full of it...words to the wise stick with ones reputable local record shop!

[@mattsrecordcollection]

I buy as many as I ever did, however, I am more discerning now, I check out vintage records very carefully before I drop $$. On the other hand, I paid $60 for the new MOFI Bookends and was deliriously happy with it. I have 26 Tone Poet releases and I love every one of them. Great video, as always!

[@MelindaMurphy]

Some of these reissues like Bookends, are so well done that they are worth the splurge. I don't mind paying up for high quality. Thank you and take care. 🤗♥️

[@IAmNotA.12345]

Melinda - thank you for your thoughtful video. I live in Hobart, Tasmania, so access to record shops is not what it may be in LA or NYC. We do have several here though, and the same issues exist for independent record stores here as in your area. I guess there's a bunch of reasons why we buy music - as you noted, I am sure nostalgia is one such for those who collect records. I have a small collection of records, but I don't classify myself as a record collector. I think one reason for collecting CDs might be to have a high quality physical copy of the music one likes. I don't generally consume music through streaming platforms, so CDs and records are really the way I mainly consume music (not quite - I do have Apple music - I use that for listening to music before I choose to buy a record or CD. And I also use Bandcamp). I also rip my CDs so I have an easily accessible copy on a networked hard drive. So, CDs are more convenient for me than records. I guess the other thing around collecting is the music. I can see at least three modes: 1. I can collect records/CDs for the scarcity, and, hence, the appreciating value of the physical media; 2. I can collect merely for the music (my situation). So I'm agnostic regarding the format, although I prefer CD for the convenience; 3. Both the above.

[@MelindaMurphy]

I'm so sorry for the delayed response. KZbin has changed the way I find comments and I have missed some unfortunately. I love having a physical format of the music I love. I have mostly records but I also enjoy CDs. ♥️ I'm sorry that your access is limited. I used to live in a city that didn't have record stores so I can relate. Thank you and take care. ♥️🤗

[@curtissimpkins]

This is why that I'm back in to cds my friend but I'm happy that people are still in to LPS, great video my friend

[@MelindaMurphy]

CDs are a great alternative. It's cool to see people still supporting physical media! Thank you and Happy Thanksgiving! ♥️🤗

[@curtissimpkins]

@@MelindaMurphy and you to my friend

[@blueriverlore]

Most of what I buy now is to 'fill in the gaps' of my collection or to replace one with an upgraded copy. An example is my Miles Davis 'Kind of Blue' LP. Somewhere back in time it warped very badly and I just replaced it with an 180 gram copy for $23. I'm good with that (even though I probably paid $5 originally). Good video Melinda.

[@billphelps5611]

One good thing about records being expensive is that it makes your collection more valuable.....but it does help to keep things in perspective. The older common titles that sold by the millions though can be irritating to see for $10-15 but that is where the market is at. It would not be easy to run a record store and I honestly don't know how many of the people who do survive. I do support the local stores and sometimes do overpay but I don't want them to go away. Great video and take care!

[@MelindaMurphy]

I know it's a tough business. I don't mind paying a little extra when I am at a small record shop but I also have to watch my own budget. If something seems too high, I pass on it. Thank you and take care. ♥️🤗

[@robbiedetroitstigermanviny8883]

I've been buying records since 1973 when I was 7 years old. I'm 58 and I'm still buying original pressing, no reissues! No matter what the state of record buying is, I still buy. I was buying records when it wasn't cool anymore and reasonably priced. Awesome Video!

[@MelindaMurphy]

It must have been incredibly fun to buy great records for next to nothing back then. I'm a little envious. ♥️🤗 What a wonderful lifelong hobby. Thank you and take care.

[@lostandfoundsounds]

If your username is any indication, perhaps you're a "local?" 😉 I live within walking distance of Trax N Wax, but I do miss having Car City Classics nearby. I can't tell you how many lunch hours I spent at Car City grabbing all kinds of vinyl, but that was when everyone was dumping it for CDs. Most of what I bought back then is so much more expensive now!

[@mostynf]

I live in Japan, secondhand Billy Joel records are one of the most common things to see because they sold by the truckload back in the day - they’re not rare at all. They sell for the equivalent of 5 to 10 dollars, which I think is fair - that’s what they should cost when the number of copies outstrips the customer demand for them.

[@MelindaMurphy]

The regular Billy Joel records are reasonable here with the exception of that Greatest Hits album. For some reason, it's pricey. Lol. He sure sold a ton of records. Thank you and take care. ♥️🤗

[@mostynf]

@ Yeah that’s odd. You might as well buy the three or four classic albums individually, then you have all the songs from the compilation plus you get all the other non-single tracks too.

[@vinyltone4970]

Interesting topic and some great points, Melinda. I'd add that another factor is that any second-hand record store will be sitting on substantial stock that takes a very long time for a buyer to appear - it can be years for some items, and many times they may not sell at all. A store owner needs to keep a full shop and buy new collections on a regular basis to keep the customers coming back, and in some cities there is a lot of competition for the choice items or collections. In the end it's about supply and demand, and the priciest vintage rock albums tend to have more people looking for them than there are copies available. A store owner can strike it lucky and cash in on those rarities, but it might takes months of hard graft with mediocre stock before such an item arrives. I've spoken to enough record dealers to know that making a living on the path that they've chosen is not easy money for most of them.

[@MelindaMurphy]

You make some really good points. Honestly, it's rare that I go into a record store and see a great selection.. Finding those desirable titles is getting harder and harder to do. It's a challenging business. Thank you and take care. 🤗♥️

[@malcolmbillington2864]

The artwork on the Vinyl albums is far superior to anything you get on a cd! A excellent measured rant Melinda, its always helpful to see both sides of the argument. Personally if i think a album is too much i wont buy it, but also i have bought expensive items and never regretted it! once the music starts to wash over you, how much it costs soon gets forgotten about. We are music addicts and we are never going to stop!

[@MelindaMurphy]

You're certainly not wrong. Some records are worth spending the extra money and it's different for everybody. When the needle hits the vinyl, the price is forgotten. ♥️ Thank you and take care. 🤗

[@patbarr1351]

Take a look at the Jethro Tull anniversary CD/DVD reissues from Chrysalis and the new Talking Heads '77 box from Universal. Those are much more beautiful than the original LP versions.

[@heartbeatoz]

Really enjoyed this video and your explanation on the background of Record Store Owners it makes you stop and think. Luckily I kept all my Records from my youth so don’t have to replace any so I am having fun just adding to my Collection. So cheers and thanks from an Australian viewer 👌🏻

[@MelindaMurphy]

I love hearing from viewers that they kept their records for all of these years. That's so awesome and soooo smart. ♥️ Thank you for the kind words. Take care. 🤗

[@adsph]

You make some valid points. There is always extra costs associated with just about everything. As a huge Rush fan and drummer, I buy their box sets. Sure I have almost every cd. I just got a MoFi UltraDeck and a store opened locally. I hope the record store stays but the lease is only for 3 more months. I would support local of course. I do support Acoustic Sounds and Music Direct.

[@MelindaMurphy]

I hope that the record store makes it. ♥️ I'm also a big fan of Acoustic Sounds and Music Direct. Thank you and take care. ♥️🤗

[@Simon-RucknRideAUD]

Most stores have totally replaced CDs and DVDs with other products, the new music stores seem to have taken over, but compared to vinyl only about 30% A massive turnout to about 5 years ago when vinyl was a a little section down the back of the store. I still buy vinyl, I purchased RUSH Permanent Waves paid $80 and I was okay with that. Vinyl sales are still steady but they have not stopped. I just have 300 records and I have to make sure I don’t over spend.

[@MelindaMurphy]

That's great that you were able to pick up Permanent Waves! Thank you and take care. 🤗♥️

[@CliffTangredi]

Melinda, if you’re ever in Orlando, bring your Quiet Riot record to my shop. We have a flattening machine. It usually takes 3 to 4 hours, but it usually gets the warp out pretty good.😊 Cliff - Remix Record Shop. Also, Eric is a good friend! Nice shout out to him. He’s very passionate.

[@MelindaMurphy]

Thanks, Cliff! I'll keep that in mind for a future trip to Orlando. ♥️🤗 That's a very sweet offer. I hope to make it there someday. Have a great weekend.

[@Hysteria87x]

I LOVE the perspective you gave on what goes on behind the scenes for record store owners. While prices can definitely be frustrating, I never get legit angry or too bent out of shape..because like you said, the record store owners have to be able to provide for themselves and their families to make a living. Also, the comment that you pinned sums it all up perfectly!

[@MelindaMurphy]

I had to pin that comment. He summed this video up perfectly. I'm with you, if the record store owner is a good person, I always trust that his/her price is fair. Only they know how much money they have in each record. Thank you and take care. 🤗♥️

[@antwanalston4572]

I love listening to your conversation when it comes to vinyl records with that i agree the price are going to be what it is high or low prices great video Melinda i definitely enjoy this take care and have a blessed Tuesday

[@MelindaMurphy]

Thank you so much! It's nice to know others have the same thoughts and feelings when it comes to vinyl. Have a wonderful day! 🤗♥️

[@OWEN-CASH]

One thing I have noticed: In the 1970s & 80s, record stores were located everywhere throughout my city. Now they are only located in the wealthier areas.

[@MelindaMurphy]

That's interesting. In my experience, record stores tend to be in the rougher areas of town. The buildings are usually old and I assume rent is more affordable in these areas. Hopefully, record stores are equally spread out for everyone. Thank you and have a wonderful weekend. ♥️🤗

[@robertjermantowicz-uw3iw]

I bought a thousand records over the decades at my local Goodwill for $1 each! All good stuff!

[@MelindaMurphy]

That's the way to do it. Absolutely incredible! Good for you. ♥️🤗 Thank you and enjoy your weekend.

[@cunawarit]

CDs are truly where it's at. For many of of us in our 40s and 50s, CDs carry a unique magic-a time when they first arrived and changed everything we knew about music quality. Many of us remember hearing our first CD and being amazed by how clear and crisp it sounded, a huge leap from the crackles of vinyl or the hiss of cassette tapes. Vinyl certainly has its charm, and I do enjoy the occasional record. But for sheer convenience and quality, I’ll always buy more CDs. They’re easy to store and simple to play, with a few favorites always stacked next to my CD player, while the rest of my collection resides in the attic. Beyond that, I've digitized my CDs into FLAC files on my NAS, so I can enjoy that CD-quality sound throughout the house, wherever I have a Volumio node. It’s seamless, and I can enjoy my music without hunting down the physical disc each time. While vinyl is enjoyable in its own way, I’m not in a rush to build a big collection of LPs. They’re lovely, but quality can vary so much with secondhand records, and finding one in great condition is rare. So, while I’ll still appreciate vinyl now and then, CDs remain my primary go-to for high-quality sound and nostalgia. And they are so affordable too! I've bought CDs from charity shops for £0.50 in 2024! Some of them still in the shrink wrap.

[@ronvitale]

I’m with you!

[@MelindaMurphy]

I completely understand and have nothing but respect for CD collectors. The music is the same and CDs do sound good. I'm a vinyl person for nostalgic reasons but I also remember listening to my first CD. It was Garth Brooks first album. ♥️🤗 Thank you and take care.

[@antalantal2366]

Your approach is very rational and wise but... I was there when the first CDs were sold but... I never managed to build a connection with this format. For me it is vinyl, tape or streaming

[@cunawarit]

@antalantal2366 I love streaming today, whether it's from a service like Qobuz or directly from my local network. It's incredibly convenient and sounds fantastic. Still, I have fond memories of tapes-their warmth, the physical act of flipping them, even the hiss between tracks. Sadly, I don’t actually have a way to play my old tapes anymore, so those memories will just have to stay in my head.

[@richardelliott8352]

to each his on. vinyl recording technology far exceeds most playback capability, so enjoyment is very dependent on the quality of the record player.

[@rundoetx]

Unlike a lot of people,I didn't ditch my album collection during the onslaught of the cd's during the 80's and early 90's. During that time, I continued to buy new vinyl and some cd's. One thing i did do though, was buy a butt load of fantastic used albums cheap ($3 tp $5) because other collectors were dumping their vinyl. I was able to fill a lot of holes in my collection with good clean copies. Now those same records would cost me $20+. The flip side if that is, if I tried to sell them now, I could never get $20 for them. Remember, when it comes down to it, its not the price, its about the music and the feelings and memories that playing those albums gives us. Ive slowed way down and honesty dont buy many records anymore. Im at a point in my life where I gotta start down sizing anyway, because my kids and grandkids dont want em. But, I'll keep most Im sure. I love digging one out and listening to an album that I haven't heard in years.

[@MelindaMurphy]

It was smart for you to take care of your records and to keep buying them when they were so cheap. I understand the desire to unburden your children. You could always leave a name and number of a record store so that your kids could just call them up and let them pick them up and pay them. That's my plan anyway. Lol. Thank you and take care. 🤗♥️

[@muzikman74]

I’ll only pay $5-$15 for ANY RECORD…..maybe $20. Prices now are insane Beatles & zeppelin should only be $5-$10 since they made millions of them

[@MelindaMurphy]

It's very hard to find a reasonably priced Led Zeppelin record nowadays. The Beatles US pressings are very common and reasonably priced. Thank you and take care. 🤗♥️

[@Vitally14]

The record store near where I live is trying to sell the US capitol Beatles albums for $40 or more in OK condition. Pisses me off even though I’m set on my Beatles

[@maxhirsch7035]

@@MelindaMurphy I'd qualify this and say that VG+ and NM copies of these bands' LPs have become quite expensive because often the first/early pressings still sound best, and the bulk of them- I'm talking primarily about Zeppelin here, but also the Beatles (two of my four favorite bands BTW) have been trashed over the years, so a not-so-large remaining number of prime pressings in prime condition are being sought after by large numbers of younger and not-so-young people, and so are being progressively priced upwards by supply and demand.

[@ThatVinylChannel]

I am lucky that a few miles away there is a tattoo parlor that has a used record store in the front of it. Used records only, nothing new, nothing directly from distributors. Just mainly what people bring in to get money for that is what they sell. It's a fairly good size store but I suspect the tattoo parlor in the back probably brings them enough revenue to keep the lights on without the record store so anything from it is a cherry on top. This allows them to charge fair but not high prices. I am always pleased when I stop by there every could of months to see what new stuff they get in and always leave with a bag full of vinyl goodness!

[@MelindaMurphy]

Wow! That sounds like an awesome place to shop. Thank you and take care. 🤗♥️

[@davidkenner-rb8go]

The next time I start to rant about people paying so much for new records, I'll remember your very logical justification for the current prices. Thanks!

[@MelindaMurphy]

Awww! Thank you very much. I still get frustrated about prices but at least I know what the store owners have to go through to get good records into their store. Take care. ♥️🤗

[@jpreza]

Great video as always Melinda! btw I love the Let It Be...Naked vinyl. I remember buying it around 20 years ago for $30-$35 I don't quite recall. That record has jumped in price to somewhere around $150-$200 or more!! In fact , most Beatles reissues, specially from the 80s, the late purple Capitol labels as well as the MFSL individual albums have skyrocketed. I remember buying some of the them in mid 90s for $20-$25 each, and I thought those prices were outrageous! Now they're more like $100 and upwards. INSANE!!

[@MelindaMurphy]

Wow! I had an opportunity to buy some of those Beatles records on the purple Capital label. I missed a good opportunity. They usually sound wonderful. 🤗♥️ That's probably why they are worth so much. Thank you and take care.

[@glenmoon]

All I know is that I love Tuesdays With Melinda! I love your hair, your earrings and your shirt, and I love St. Augustine, FL! Running any small business is hard. But most things are basically based on supply and demand. You want a first pressing of The Stooges as compared to a first pressing of Andy Williams it’s going to be drastically different price. I’m more selective now than I was years ago and also I’m running out of room for my records as well.

[@MelindaMurphy]

Thank you so much for the very kind words. 🤗♥️ I love St Augustine as well. 🌞 The Stooges aren't as easy to find as Andy Williams and I like them better with the exception being at Christmastime. Andy Williams rules at Christmas. Lol. ♥️🤗 Thank you and take care.

[@bacarandii]

I know I'm not buying as many records as I was a few years ago (before the pandemic) when I was getting back into vinyl after buying almost nothing but CDs since 1988. Two reasons: 1) I've already bought the "must-haves" that I wanted (and, in many cases, that I originally had on LP); and 2) I overspent when trying to recreate and expand on the collection I had to get rid of in a hurry during a major move across the country in 1992! OK, I've always been terrible with money, but I'm so close to having the extensive collection I've always wanted that now I'm in a better position to check myself and say: Do you REALLY need this addition to the "library" -- and do you really want it on LP, or would a CD or a download (I don't do streaming) be a better fit?

[@MelindaMurphy]

I'm in a similar situation. I have most of the records I need. I'm still working on my jazz collection but like you, I have slowed down on my spending significantly. Thank you and take care. ♥️🤗

[@nothingimportant4504]

It’s less the cost of records, more the cost of everything else. I did reserve my spending this year due to the economic outlook, but things in my life have changed for the better, and I did allow myself a good splurge a couple weeks ago. Gotta thank Mike at the In Groove for his On Sale page!

[@MelindaMurphy]

I love ordering from Mike. I'm glad you were able to take advantage of his sale. 🤗♥️ Thank you and take care.

[@grahamclutterbuck583]

Same here in the UK, some charity shops here are charging more on used records than my local record shops.

[@MelindaMurphy]

That's crazy but I don't doubt you. Lol. I saw $55 for an album by Bread one time. That's nuts! Thank you and take care. ♥️🤗

[@automatedelectronics6062]

As usual, you nailed it! The K.I.S.S. reasoning is everything has drastically increased in price, especially over the last 4 years. In the record industry, this includes the cost of manufacturing and the overhead in a retail store. And, right, as I've said before, I think twice before buying a record. There was a time, not that long ago, when the online stores had super sales on records, including specially priced bundles. Many of these online stores are long gone. A couple which I bought alot from were Pop Market and Sound Stage Direct. The prices were so good that I would buy 2 copies, keeping 1 sealed and stored in my huge closet collection. There are a couple of online stores still around, uDiscover Music and The Sound Of Vinyl. These are both part of the Universal Music Group and they are selling direct to the consumer. They too used to have unbelievably cheap prices, with regular sales 30-50% off. No more. They are really nailing the consumer on records and CD's. Take some new releases from Universal. They have re-issued a handful of 7" Christmas singles on color vinyl. One is 1st time on a 7". They all have nice picture sleeves and they are priced at $15. each. No thank you. I am a big 7" 45rpm collector and these are too rich for my blood. Speaking of 7" 45rpm singles, a local store, Rasputin Music, has a growing section of those records. When I was in there the other day I noted that many of the records had $5. price stickers, some even more. They aren't even organized. Just a couple of years ago they were 50 cents and even cheaper when you bought 10 or more. I haven't bought any 45's from them for a couple of years. Although the vinyl used to press records still costs just pennies per record, everything else involved in pressing records has skyrocketed in price. Manufacturers have overhead too. But, here's the thing which doesn't make much sense. The same record companies which usually sells single albums for $40.-$60. or more, still issues albums for $20. and sometimes under! They may be pressed on 140g vinyl instead of 180g, but they are using the same master discs. Argh!

[@MelindaMurphy]

On my early days of buying, I often bought from Sound Stage Direct. I wish they were still around but I know several people that paid for records they never received. ☹️. I hate to say this but Amazon is the only place that runs truly worthy deals. I don't like to buy from Amazon but the sales and free shipping can be hard to resist. I agree that $15 is way too much for a new 45" single. I wouldn't buy that either. Thank you and take care. ♥️🤗

[@luvmyrecords]

Funny thing about the Billy Joel collection: when it came out, we all were thrilled to buy it in the new CD format, because we had the records from which those hits came. The cd meant that we didn't have to replace all those albums.

[@MelindaMurphy]

Lol. That's funny. I hadn't thought of that. Thank you and take care. ♥️🤗

[@keensoundguy6637]

In 1979 I purchased my first Mobile Fidelity half-speed mastered pressing on JVC supervinyl. It was "Abbey Road" and cost $17.98. The late 70's and early 80's with introduction of DMM was indeed vinyl's "finest hour". An online inflation calculator says that $17.98 in 1979 is equivalent to $78.18 in 2024. As best I recall, US standard new releases were about $8, UK & German imports were $1 more, and Japanese imports were around $2 more. The imports typically had better vinyl and better quality covers. Not all US pressings had "bad" vinyl, but quite a lot were using recycled vinyl.

[@MelindaMurphy]

It's so interesting to look back at those prices. Vinyl was just a normal part of life then. I have that copy of Abbey Road. The $78 price tag is about the going rate for it today. Thank you and take care. ♥️🤗

[@michaeljacobson4844]

Eric is such a great guy. Talked to him many times. When I found out he was about my age, I told him truthfully I had assumed he was in his 30s. He turned to his cashier and said, "Give this man a discount!"

[@MelindaMurphy]

Lol. He does look very young. He's a sweet guy. Thank you and take care. ♥️🤗

[@mr.george7687]

As much as I love vinyl, I will not pay collectors high prices. I'm not a record collector I just love the music. At record fairs I can pick up used CD's for less than $10. It's all about the music!

[@colanitower]

I agree. And on average I like only 2 or 3 tracks per album. I still buy LPs and CDs sometimes, but as an exception: only if I like to listen to (almost) all tracks on them. Paying $40 for 2 or 3 tracks to listen to, over $10 per track, is too expensive.

[@MelindaMurphy]

I understand. It's the same music - just in a different format. CDs are a fantastic bargain. Thank you and take care. ♥️🤗

[@seed_drill7135]

Around here used CDs are about $4.00 in the shop and $1.00 in the thrifts. Of course you can’t even give most titles away to a store, for that reason.

[@rickadams9]

I had, many yrs ago (73yo) lots of vinyl. It was all there was. Sold it all. DUH ! All of my music listening is CD's now. Not complaining. If I got back into vinyl, which I had thought about doing, it would be much more expensive. Just decided to stay with CD's. The CD collection sounds very good. Thanks for taking the time and effort to make your videos. Always a pleasure.

[@MelindaMurphy]

So many people let go of their records once CDs came out. CD's are much more affordable now so I definitely understand the appeal. They are also very convenient. Thank you for the kind words. ♥️🤗 Take care.

[@suprememusicmaster]

You know what else is good…I’ve been attending a lot more estate sales lately, and the good stuff is always in the basements! I went to one estate sale recently in an older home, and didn’t find much…Christmas stuff, a Dept. 56-styled Christmas village in another room, etc., but then I went into the basement! There were lots of vintage paperbacks on one bookshelf, but I looked on the other side of the room…On a different shelf, there was a box of 45 rpm records…Lots of 80’s artists…Chicago, Robbie Nevil, Olivia Newton-John, etc. They were $2.00 each, so I could afford to buy a few of them…But lo and behold, the box held a secret…I found this one record on the Date label by a group known as The Chain Reaction…”The Sun” b/w “When I Needed You” from 1966…Ring any bells? I just thought it might be a cool pop record by an unknown band…Turns out The Chain Reaction was a garage rock band that featured a very young Steven Tallarico, who you might better know as Steven Tyler of Aerosmith! And this was his very first professional recording! And it wasn’t in too bad a shape! And I literally was stupefied when I saw the prices on Discogs for it… www.discogs.com/sell/release/7545510 But, I’m happy to have found it sitting there…It made the hunt worth it! I have had other such luck at the estate sales, so you might want to check out a few that are in your area and scour the basements! You never know what you might find!

[@MelindaMurphy]

Wow! What a cool find. That's incredible. The Date label is very cool too. It always reminds me of The Zombies. Time of the Season is a single on the Date label. I also like Dept 56 Villages so that sounds like my kind of sale. Thank you and take care. ♥️🤗

[@VintageStereoCollectorChannel]

Hey Melinda, Your video should be a required viewing before each of us goes out crate digging! Such a well thought out vid. I’ve relied on Acoustic Sounds lately for a bunch of jazz releases lately (Pablo Series) for about $40 each but I buy a bunch so I get free shipping. Found a vintage Pablo two days at Goodwill for $3.99. I put it in my Ultrasonic cleaner with new inner & outer sleeves 👍👍 I am starting to go back to local record stores in LA now. Last week I bought an Oscar Peterson LP from 1983 with shrink-wrap on it for $12. BUT, I noticed 5-6 boxes of leftover LPs from RECORD STORE DAYS over the past 5 years. This is another loss for the owner. Going to Goodwill this morning to see if I can find a Sandpipers LP I saw two days for $3.99 so I can use the album jacket with the same album my brother-in-law gave me last night that has ring wear.

[@MelindaMurphy]

It's smart to buy multiple records from Acoustic Sounds. Their shipping is quite expensive. I love their jazz releases as well. That was a great Oscar Peterson find. He's wonderful. ♥️ Thank you and take care. 🤗

[@danielmeadus636]

Let it be naked, back in 2013, I bought around 15 to 20 copies for $21 and three for $14, all never opened (Canadian dollar is 70 cents today). Do you research before buying ? Sonicboom Records asked not to buy anymore. The last time I was on Amazon, it was $660 a copy with none in stock.😊

[@MelindaMurphy]

I do try to research records so that I don't overpay. Thank you and take care. 🤗♥️

[@dimebagdave77]

Good morning and many thanks Melinda, love hearing your thoughts on these matters.ive been caught up in the hype many times, but I buy records to listen to.just like I've done my whole life

[@MelindaMurphy]

I agree. I'm buying for the listening experience and the fun of owning them. I don't plan on cashing in on them. That will be my daughter's job. Lol. 😄 Thank and thank you.

[@LPS-R-US]

Digging this segment Melinda...money has little value but vintage vinyl do!..keep rockN!

[@MelindaMurphy]

Lol. I like the way you think. ♥️🤗 Thank you and take care.

[@andrewcarney4810]

From 1981 to 2020, a used record was 3 to 5 dollars. A CD is 5 dollars, and a used CD player(60 dollars) sounds better than a 500 dollar turntable ...BUT....You built a beautiful library with top-notch sound gear. A celebration of culture and an educational experience for future generations in your family to learn from and enjoy

[@MelindaMurphy]

Thank you for the kind words! ♥️🤗 Take care.

[@sharonevans6864]

I have been trying to buy good copies of the Beatles on the Capitol label, mine are completely shot. Where I live every one I find is in not so great shape but cost a lot. So thank you Beatles for this year reissue of the first six albums, I know people are mad about this but it was my wish and to get all six at once was more than I could ask for. Enjoyed your topic today, take care Melinda !

[@MelindaMurphy]

I'm so happy for you. That will be an excellent way to get those Beatles records. 🤗♥️ Thank you and take care.

[@lostandfoundsounds]

Completely agree! Some used vinyl is outrageously priced. Not so much with the rarer titles (like some of the Blue Notes), but some dirt-common records are sold online for prices that are way beyond what they are worth. When the world's best-selling album is selling for north of $40, with all the millions of copies sold, it's not adding up. My response to these crazy-expensive records, new and used, has been to vote with my wallet. Oddly though, some of the local record stores have very fair prices on their vinyl, less than online sellers. On a road trip last year, I visited a large used record store in Colorado Springs (that was unfortunately closing) and of the 17-ish records I purchased, most were $3 or less, and all but two were in fine, playable condition. These were titles I'd seen elsewhere for 2x or 3x the price. Even the used record shop within walking distance of the house has more reasonable prices--I got a really nice Freeze Frame (J. Geils) for $5 that plays like new. FWIW, the Synchronicity I bought new in 1983 I believe had a list price of $8.98, which is over $28 in 2024 dollars. I paid only $4.95, as the store (Sam's Jams) offered popular new releases as a loss leader to get us into the store. I have no issue paying $25-$30 for a new record today. But beyond that, it's a hard sell...

[@MelindaMurphy]

I think I know what record store you are talking about in Colorado Springs. It's sad that it closed. Great process though. I agree, we vote with our wallets. Thank you and take care. ♥️🤗

[@peterrech2307]

I used to own a used record store here in Melbourne, Australia. Everyone thought that we were overpriced in on used records. The used record store owner you spoke to was spot on in that it did cost a lot trying to buy used records. Another used record issue is the higher prices on rare albums. I found that if i bought a rare record for a price and put it in the rack at a lower price than buyers expected to pay, they would not buy it. As an example: I imported from Germany 5 copies of a Cold Chisel (Aussie rock band) ep called You're 13, you're beautiful and you're mine which was withdrawn from sale by their record company, which I bought from Line records in Germany for 5 dollars brand new per record. I put them up my rarities wall for 20 dollars, had no interest. One regular customer asked me what was wrong with the records. I told him there was nothing wrong. he left and did not buy it. To see what would happen I put the price up to 100 dollars and sold all four copies I had for sale that very day. Even sold one to my original customer when it was 20 dollars. he paid 100 for it happily. When I asked why he did not buy it when it was 20 dollars, his answer was that it was too cheap.

[@MelindaMurphy]

Wow! That's a crazy story. 😳 That one customer should have shut up and paid the $20. Lol. Thank you and take care. ♥️🤗

[@rjg2112]

Great video Melinda!

[@MelindaMurphy]

Thank you very much! ♥️🤗

[@homerjones3291]

Good video; I guess I’m not myself noticing any difference in vinyl costs in the past couple of years. What I am seeing more of is people/flea market shops trying to sell really scratched up copies of old albums for $8, $10 - ones that I would never let touch my turntable. The UHQR offerings are still pretty much the same ( and I don’t usually like most artists enough to buy their complete box set) but if I have a good, quiet copy I don’t bother buying another - not really a collector, don’t have to have every pressing. I’m also starting to run out of records I want or need to replace (and room).

[@MelindaMurphy]

I avoid records in poor condition as well. What's the point? 🤔 I am guilty of owning more than one copy of records that mean a lot to me. I do try to limit myself. Thank you and take care. ♥️🤗

[@joes3-e13]

Some of the classic rock groups such as Pink Floyd & Rush, all I find are reissue records some at reasonable prices $25-$40 range. Inflation does play a part in price increase. Grant it I have a small collection of vinyl records. I've been buying cd's that I want, just need a cd player at home other than my car to listen to them. Your points are valid on record prices where some are too expensive to buy.

[@MelindaMurphy]

Vintage Pink Floyd records are hard to come by. Rush and Pink Floyd are popular titles. Hopefully, you can find a great CD player during the holidays. Surely, you can find one for a good price. 🤗♥️ Thank you and take care.

[@petekutheis3822]

Been there and done the vintage thing when I first set up a hifi room. So yes acquired a good 800 records for probably between 5 and 10 each. Not keen on filling holes. I'd rather discover new music via Roon/Tidal and if I like it enough then buy the physical media. So yeah if I was first starting now though and facing 20 to 30 bucks for a used record I wouldnt do it, and I think a lot dont. When I go to local record shops here in Austin most folks are looking in the 5 dollar bins (used to be dollar bins...lol) OR the new releases of NEW music. If a record shop thinks it has to rely on exorbantly priced vintage records, I say the owners in the wrong business. edit-sometimes I dont mind spending between 15 and 30 at a record convention for something I'd otherwise not seen in the wild before.....most often though one finds it can be had for less via a discogs seller.

[@MelindaMurphy]

It would be tough to be starting out in vinyl collecting with the current prices. They just have to take things slower and buy less at a time. Like you, I am not a completist. I don't have to fill holes either. Thank you and take care. 🤗♥️

[@gregvickers3123]

Sadly, vinyl is now a boutique industry. Like anything and everything that can be pilfered for maximum profit the greed wins out and the prices go up and up and up. I'm buying new vinyl far less than I used to. And used records have become a bargain hunt. Which is fine, I guess, but I miss the days when I was snagging albums for $2 or $5 on vinyl. Those same records are $20 and $30. I just can't justify it. But you make excellent arguments, Melinda. It's a fine line to justify or criticize.

[@MelindaMurphy]

I can relate to everything you said. This, for me, has been by far the least exciting year for buying records. A lot of the reissues have been things I don't want or already have. And the price of used records has made it harder to buy as many as I would like. I'm hoping this was just an off year and not the way things will be from now on. Thank you and take care. 🤗♥️

[@hawaiifiles]

As I have told you before, the price of vinyl is through the roof these days, especially for new releases and reissues... But yes, vintage vinyl that often sold for less than $5 each back in the day is now more expensive... and yes, I understand why. I yearn for the days when used record albums used to sell for a dollar each or less in the 1990s. I bought enough of them in the day and through the years (as new in the 1970s and 80s) that I really should not be complaining today. That said I wish I could afford to get fixed copies of the vinyl versions of Fleetwood Mac "Rumours" and Paul & Linda's "Ram" album someday. However the records are good enough for the occasional playing of that music in the vinyl format. It does help that I have these albums on CD and digital formats, so I can still enjoy them. Today I only buy new CDs if I really want that latest album or single. I only buy vintage CDs if they're selling for under $10. In the end the music matters more than the format medium we listen to the songs on.

[@MelindaMurphy]

I have records I would love to upgrade because of condition but because of the jump in price, I just can't do it. Like you, I can live with what I have. There is more demand for records now so I understand the price increase. I also want the record store owners to make money. Thank you and take care. 🤗♥️

[@colanitower]

Records and CDs have always been on the expensive side to me, considering this: on average I like 2 to 3 tracks per album. For me music is to listen to, so it's simple: the rest is ballast. Therefore I limit buying albums to the ones of which I want to listen to (almost) all tracks. That's a total of about 200 albums, and adding 1 or 2 per year. The rest of my music collection consists of tracks that came from about 8,000 other albums. I love vinyl collections but for me it's not practical. To enjoy vinyl without having to buy and maintain it I just watch this channel 😊

[@MelindaMurphy]

I understand your method. There are some records in my collection where I like a few of the songs but have never fallen in love with the album as a whole. It's ok to put on a record and listen to just the first or second side but records are too expensive and take up too much space for that to be the norm. Thank you and take care. 🤗♥️

[@jdthompson5778]

Enjoyed your video. A couple other points I’ll offer. Some of these records are 30, 40, or 50+ years old. Many copies have issues, were stored improperly etc. So finding good condition copies of really old or popular records can be difficult as well. When a record store buys a whole collection or even a crate full someone brings in. Some may not be up to snuff on further inspection. A lot of stores clean & sleeve or re-sleeve records before selling too. I always appreciate the ones who do. I’m lucky to have a small shop nearby when the owner cleans and plays every record every track before selling. Any issue, a warp or a pop and crackle spot or track and he dumps it into the $2 bin so you can buy with confidence. He’s shown me a crate of 40 records he’s bought and 8 weren’t up to his standards so $2 bin. When you buy big collections you may end up with a ton of records you don’t sell or hang around a year or two or three. Lastly let’s face it, there are a lot of standard reissues that just aren’t near as good sounding as an original or at least older pressing. I’ve found many new releases and re-issues come out of a sealed jacket with scratches from the pressing plant or even warps .. some covers tend to be thin and quite cheap compared to vintage originals. So a M- or VG+ even if an OG can be better than a new copy for sure in some cases. So it’s worth a little less or more than a reissue in those cases.

[@MelindaMurphy]

I agree that in some cases the quality control and sound just don't measure up to the originals. Sadly, originals are going to continue to get harder and harder to find, especially the clean ones. That $2 bin would be so much fun to dig. ♥️🤗 Thank you and take care.

[@jdthompson5778]

@ Agree and that’s why a lot of the originals in good shape keep getting harder to find and more expensive. I do not think in the 60s-80s people wanted the records of the 20s-40s as much because rock & roll and 12” albums had taken over with great music flowing out! However today’s buyers still want the 60s-90s originals on vinyl..even many young people. 30-65 year old records! Not to mention CDs taking over the 90s and 00s almost wiped out releases from that period on vinyl. Keep the great videos coming! 😊

[@kingelvis1956]

Hi, Melinda! I was fortunate enough to be a teenager in the late 70’s when most LP’s cost around $6-$7 and even less for oldies reissues! You could purchase all of those individually recorded (solo) KISS albums brand new in 1978 for just $7.49 each with the posters inside and no clipped corners! Today, you’d be expected to pay around $40 for each of those in used, scratched condition WITH clipped corners and NO poster! Totally insane! I have most of those albums that you showed in the beginning of your video, including the Billy Joel Greatest Hits album. I paid just $11.99 for my copy, brand new at Tower Records in Las Vegas and yes, I still have it! I buy VERY little new vinyl because of the ridiculous prices. Another great video, Melinda! Walter

[@paulredding5347]

You have to consider what people were being paid back in the 70s.

[@kingelvis1956]

@ That is very true, but my memories of those better times remain so vivid to me! Everything was so much simpler (and cheaper) before the 90’s came along.

[@MelindaMurphy]

It’s great to hear your stories from back in the day! I’m glad you’re still enjoying your collection. You were smart to keep all of your records. I do enjoy finding a Kiss record that still has the inserts and/or posters. Thank you and take care. ♥️🤗

[@kingelvis1956]

@@MelindaMurphy Yes! That was one of the best things about KISS albums of the 1970’s; they always included cool items with the album. 😁

[@09marathon]

We all out way too much time and effort into records but I can’t stop 😂

[@PatrickBajtka-qx7mz]

Melinda, you do a great job of what I call “playing King Solomon” as you always see both sides of the coin. This, as you probably know, can be both a blessing and a curse. But, after all is said and done, you are a fair person so kudos to you. Keep up the good work!

[@MelindaMurphy]

I appreciate the kind words. It's always good to see things from both sides in general. Knowing what a record store owner goes though definitely helps me to understand why vintage vinyl is so expensive. Thank you and take care. ♥️🤗

[@Penfreaq]

What a great subject and I agree with you on a lot of it, I am almost 60 years old I've been buying records since I was 7. I like to collect a little bit of everything minus opera. My main collection focuses on pop music from the oldies sound of Motown to the disco sound of Casablanca and prelude records to 80s wave I pretty much stopped in the late 90s with new music and just recently started buying records from target and Walmart but I have to say that the prices in my opinion are killing The hobby for a lack of better words. And I've heard this from a lot of friends that the prices per new record are ridiculous it doesn't cost that much to make a vinyl record as you would think at least in my opinion yes prices to go up on everything but come on $50 for a new record? Who's got that kind of money in today's world? Do you buy the necessities you need or do you blow it on one single record? You see before everyone could afford records you could find them for $.50 a $two dollars in budget bins now even those records have shot up to $10-$15 and even more new records should be priced between 17 and $25 not 50 not 49 not 39. I've bought all that I am gonna buy I just cannot pay that much for one single record even if it's a double album. The last record I bought at target was the wicked soundtrack for $39 and I felt super guilty about that. Used record stores are doing a great job they sell new and used at great prices but it certainly has changed there too. The two dollar budget bin is not two dollars anymore and the new ones are almost selling for $80 I don't know what to make of any of it anymore but I know that it has slowed down by collecting as well as others that I know who put the whole thing on hold. Something's got to be done about the pricing because it's not giving kids a chance to collect

[@MelindaMurphy]

I agree that $50 for one record seems like way too much money. I would hope that we are all paying our bills before buying records. I miss the days of finding bargains too. Now that vinyl is popular again, we are getting great reissues and more choices but the prices are a lot higher. It's a trade off. Thank you and take care. 😃♥️

[@MondoChelloveckMovies]

Completely agree Melinda 👏👏 I got back into collecting vinyl after a LONG layoff and came to terms with new vinyl costing more, it is what it is... but I went back to the vinyl shop I went to in the 80s that's still there 😱😁 I went to look at used vinyl hoping to score some cheap classics 🤯🤯🤯 yep! that's when I thought the same as you, these are already out there and we're probably close to getting dumped back in the day, so I was amazed by the price!!! Good point about the stores probably don't get these cheap and can't sell them cheap 🤔👍 gone are the days where people used to offload a full collection for free Melinda 🥴🤣 great video, really enjoyed this one 🤩🤩👍👍

[@MelindaMurphy]

Sad but true. People know that vintage records are in demand and they want to cash in. They aren't just wanting to get rid of them anymore and record stores have to compete to bring the good stuff into their stores. That's why vintage vinyl is no longer cheap. Thank you and take care. ♥️🤗

[@dano-jafo]

I appreciate your insightful information on vintage vinyl prices. I'm sure there are very honest record store owners who factor all that in to the pricing. The store owners who offer me $6 to $10 dollars for my VG+ vintage vinyl , while they sell in their store similar stuff for $40 to $60, are not being fair. Alot will low ball you . I'm taking it to them in their store. Si its not like they go out if there way in any unusual manner. Its great there are many good owners but I feel there are more unscrupulous owners than honest. That's why i sell my records myself on discogs.

[@MelindaMurphy]

I have been in a situation of being offered a lot less money than I should have received and it's very frustrating. What you suggested just isn't reasonable and a record store will not last if they continue to do that. Thank you and take care. 🤗♥️

[@markcarrington8565]

Hey Melinda Retail on the high street is a privilege we should treasure. It’s the most expensive way to sell anything and if you want to know what happens when people decide it’s a rip off you only have to look at the Hi-Fi business. Many of my friends have spent hundreds if not thousands buying gear on line, only to find it doesn’t improve their satisfaction with their systems. With dealers you could go and try first but of course you paid for it at the cash register. I spent a wonderful morning with my daughter a couple of weeks ago in three record shops in Liverpool. I picked up 1 Blue Note Classic plus eight original pressing albums at a total cost of £160. I was able to check the pressings, check the condition, I even asked the owner of one store to spin one up so I could find out if a scratch actually played. It didn’t. Choice was from Jethro Tull, to Bob Marley, Carol Kidd to Bach. I do buy on line, however, it’s a total lottery when it comes to condition and I only do it if the vendor’s feedback is perfect. I will continue to support the stores and hope others do too, it’s the only kind of shopping I really love. All the best, Mark

[@MelindaMurphy]

I agree with you. It's so nice to be able to personally feel and check the condition of a record ourselves. That's one reason that I love going to record stores. Digging is still much more fun than ordering online. Thank you and take care. 🤗♥️

[@stevecarlsonvinylcommunity9147]

Yeah, sticker shock has been painful on used albums from the 80s as I tried to rebuild my collection. It has cost me way too much to bring back favorites that should not be that much. Stores do use discogs. If people are spending more on discogs the record stores will follow that price. Funny you showed that Billy Joel album, when I was look at bringing that back in I could not believe how much that record that is not rare cost. It was insane. People expect more when they sell their records but following discogs pricing has really hurt

[@MelindaMurphy]

I hear you on the pricing for Billy Joel! It's outrageous. I understand why record stores are using Discogs but I think it's a bad practice that adds to these higher prices. Thank you and have a happy Thanksgiving. 🤗♥️

[@douglasweston126]

Hi Melinda - absolutely spot on. The behind the scene costs for a record store owner are pretty high. I mean - also, once they've bought these second hand records, they probably need a clean, and new inner sleeves - more costs. I know two or three record store owners, so I know what they have to put up with and then sometimes they get negative comments on their websites 95% of which are very unfair - and that doesnt help the business either. Over the years I 've got to know the record store owners, and that way its always an enjoyable catch up and you might even get a few dollars knocked off. It pays to be nice to people, not some god awful moron abusing them for their so called high prices. The costs of the raw products have also skyrocketed, and they need to be passed onto the buy - there's no way round it. If you dont like the price - dont buy !! I recently bought a new Yardbirds 50th anniversary RED vinyl album - $35 AUD, now thats pretty damn good. . On the other side of the coin I was in a charity shop the other day and while I was browsing the owner dropped a couple of albums on the rack next to me. The top one John Lennon - Mind Games, a second one Joe Cocker - Cocker Happy. $3.00 AUD each lol. OK they're not audiophile records but I dont care. They both cleaned up great and play fine, yes there is a little surface noise in the quieter moments but I dont care about that. Its just great fun going out browsing - I love it. Thats me - cheers Doug (from Down Under)

[@MelindaMurphy]

Wow! Talk about being at the right place at the right time. ♥️🤗 Good for you. I also love getting to know record store owners and employees. It's great to have someone to talk to in the new city I live in. Thank you and take care. 🤗♥️

[@patfrat666]

Well said, Melinda. Great, grounded vid.

[@MelindaMurphy]

Thank you very much. ♥️🤗

[@garrz32]

Nice points, I think it's just the age we live in now. retro video games, comics , toys, they have all seen big prices and the bubble never seems to burst. You want old stuff, gotta be prepared to pay the price am afraid.

[@MelindaMurphy]

Very true. The vintage records in great condition will probably never get cheaper. Thank you and take care. ♥️🤗

[@brianzawistowski5743]

Great video. You made some interesting points and observations regarding record stores. I would also add that record store owners price their records high because the people selling their records to the stores know what the current market is; thus, the store owners are paying more to acquire their inventory. I rarely buy used vinyl unless the condition is near mint. The most used vinyl I buy is recent reissues in either heavyweight or colored vinyl. Also, I look for sales and closeouts of new vinyl at local stores. Recently, I went to my local Newbury Comics and got Rush Moving Pictues 180g reissue gatefold Abbey Road remaster for $19.99 reg $40. Went to Barnes and Noble and found a bunch of $5 records placed in their bargain bin. Got Wings Wild Life 2 lp 180g, McCartney Flaming Pie 2 lp 180g issue, and Stones Goat Head Soup 2 lp 180g reissue all $5 each. I'm primarily a CD collector (started collecting vinyl in the 70s, went to CDs in late 80s), but will buy vinyl if the price and quality are right.

[@MelindaMurphy]

Oh wow! Paying only $5 for those records is insane. Good for you. I never get that lucky. Lol. Thank you and take care. ♥️🤗

[@Duke2363]

Melinda, Brad here. You answered my question before about cleaning in the direction of the grooves. If I get back into vinyl, itll probably be next year. It wont be anything fancy, just for fun. The good news for me is Ive held onto my vinyl I had in the late 70s and 80s and added some throughout the years cos I figured who knows? Maybe one day Ill get back again. So when I get a new TT, Ill be spinning those primarily. Def Leppard among them. Also Genesis as im a Genesis nut! 😂

[@MelindaMurphy]

It is so cool that you've kept your collection for so long! 🤗♥️ When the time comes, you will be ready. Thank you and take care.

[@Duke2363]

@@MelindaMurphy Oh, I just thought. Do you have any tricks to repair a skip? I've had E.T. The Extra Terrestrial since 82 and it's skipped at the opening of one of my favorite tracks Over the Moon.

[@heartbeatoz]

You will really enjoy getting back into your Records and join the rest of us that have fallen down this wonderful Rabbit hole have fun when you return 🎶

[@Duke2363]

@@heartbeatoz Thank ya much. 😊

[@Duke2363]

@@MelindaMurphy Thanks Melinda. I was just thinking the other day that it would be advantageous to have your email when I get back into things. If that's ok with you of course. I'm a happily married man of 25 years so no fears there my friend. 🤣

[@briandewyre9446]

You’re right about what $7 for a record in the 70s or 80s is in current value- $45. I remember thinking long and hard to pay $5-$7 dollars for an album because that was a lot!! I could only buy one every once in a while- didn’t have the money!

[@MelindaMurphy]

I remember struggling to pay $9 for the Grease soundtrack. It was a 2 LP set and my mom had to spot me a couple of dollars so that I could buy it from our local grocery store. I remember thinking that $9 was a lot of money and I was right. Records today aren't as expensive as we think. It's that the cost of living has increased and we just don't have the extra money anymore. To me, that's the bigger problem. Thank you and take care. ♥️🤗

[@stevenbouler5783]

The price of vintage vinyl is daunting. I make very careful choices these days…$ is tight but I will splurge if the LP is precious to me…thanks again for a great video…

[@MelindaMurphy]

It's hard not to splurge on a precious record! 🤗♥️ I agree with you. Thank you and take care.

[@paulomontero12]

I was into vinyl but last year a bought a dac, the eversolo master edition version and i find myself using the dac 90% of the time. The convient and sound without the pops and crackles matter and it's cheaper as well.

[@MelindaMurphy]

I completely understand. It is way more convenient. Thank you and take care. 🤗♥️

[@hkraytai]

If you don’t mind VG condition sleeves and a few pops and clicks on the vinyl you can get some really great OG titles for under $15.

[@MelindaMurphy]

That's a personal preference. I don't mind a couple of pops and clicks, especially at the beginning of an album. But too many pops become a distraction for me. I agree that the price is much better for the VG grades records. Thank you and take care. ♥️🤗

[@Pluralofvinylisvinyls]

A VG record is trash to me

[@jmfloyd23]

Hi Melinda. Wow, original pressings going for astronomical prices?! 😮 that’s crazy!! These days. I only buy what I want. Purchase’s have to be planned. I’m really glad I have what I want and started very early in my collecting journey. Then again if there’s an album you really want. You’ll find a way to buy it.

[@MelindaMurphy]

Very true. Where there's a will, there is always a way. Lol. 🤗♥️ Thank you and take care.

[@miketomlin6040]

Some stores still have plenty of folks coming in offering them collections. It's a good idea to shop around, in my area there are about 20 record stores within 1hrs travel. You can find quite a range of prices for the same record-same condition. Lots of reasons for this!! As you can online.

[@MelindaMurphy]

You make a great point, there are some fantastic deals out there if you know where to look! Record stores have to make a profit but I also have to watch my wallet. Lol. Thank you and take care. ♥️🤗

[@chrisashley2100]

Very good points and great video. Like a lot of people I was able to get quite a few great records at goodwill or St. Vinny’s for a buck or two 8-10 years ago. Two bucks was my limit but that doesnt work now. But I still have a tape deck in my car so get my analog fix from buying cassettes - still 50 cents or a buck at a lot of places. Recent finds: Black Crowes, GNR, Allman Bros, Los Lobos, Kind of Blue - all on cassette for under a buck 😊

[@MelindaMurphy]

Oh wow! It's so cool that you can enjoy cassettes in your car and get them for such a crazy low price. ♥️🤗 Nice!!! Thank you and take care.

[@mammitnaamalle4603]

When buying used records from a record shop or from a pro seller, you're actually buying their EXPERTISE and work that's been already done. In an ideal situation that is. Of course the record is the ultimate paid item, but there's already lot of work been done before you get it. We had a top record store in Finland years ago, Lifesaver records, and those guys actually took trips to the United States, Japan or Europe to find treasures that we bought. Old records that simply weren't around in Finland at the time. Time and effort!

[@MelindaMurphy]

I totally agree. Record store owners work hard to bring in records for us to buy. That's very convenient for the shopper and they deserve to be paid for their efforts. Thank you and take care. ♥️🤗

[@tedlogan5628]

Luckily you got in before the rush of new collectors so your collection is pretty solid at this point. For those just getting started 💰😵‍💫

[@MelindaMurphy]

Exactly. I bought the basics many years ago. It's depressing to see formerly $5 and $10 records now selling for $25. Thank you and take care. 🤗♥️

[@davidellis5141]

Hi Melinda 🌞 - Fortunately the Ma & Pa stores in my city are still often having & advertising sales & often are willing to negotiate on higher priced albums. Don't be afraid to ask , the worst they can say is no.

[@MelindaMurphy]

That's great advice. It's nice when they can take a little off for something very expensive. 🤗♥️ Thank you and take care.

[@morgandenoia3138]

Hey Melinda, Was the record you just spent $50 on Birth of the Blue on blue vinyl? I did the same thing, and am glad because it sold out in hours!

[@MelindaMurphy]

Yes! That was it. Lol. I didn't know it sold out. I'm glad I bought it. Thank you and take care. ♥️🤗

[@Earthtime3978]

CDs gave me access to songs quicker and I never got over that convenience. I’m not looking to buy a collectors item anymore and records have somewhat evolved into that. CDs can sound great and you can run them through a DAC if you’re looking to warm them up.

[@MelindaMurphy]

CDs are very popular with my viewers. They are more affordable and convenient. I am still a record girl but I understand the appeal. Thank you and take care. 🤗♥️

[@larryboysen5911]

Well...at my advanced age (81) and a 3000+ record collection...I'm not purchasing discs from retail stores...many have been bought from garage, estate sales and thrift stores! In the eighties, when CDs were invading the market...thrift store racks were bulging with LPs! My top favorite music is both classical and theatre pipe organ...the "King of Instruments"! Have a large collection of these releases. I have to admit...my collection has nothing from the 1970s-present, I'm from a different era, (1920s-1960s)which my collection represents.

[@MelindaMurphy]

It sounds like a beautiful collection. The records from that era sound incredible. ♥️ Thank you and take care. 🤗

[@larryboysen5911]

@@MelindaMurphy That's what makes the hobby so interesting...there's room for every taste...I'll have to take a look at my thrift "haunts" and pickup a disc or two from the era I have shunned! Thank you for your trip through your collection and neat music room good health and happiness in the upcoming Season and new year!

[@tobybeau2112]

I have been told that the younger kids will spend a ton of money just to have a piece of vintage, hoping that they will get the first edition of whatever album, Just so they can say they have what other people don't have. One record shop owner told me that eight years ago, he was selling pink floyd dark side of the moon for $8.00 But now , when the college kids come in , they actually have bid on dark side of the moon and even an old scratched version of the album he has sold for $200.00

[@MelindaMurphy]

Wow! That's a lot of money. People believe that the first pressings sound the best so that's what the kids want. I also enjoy having first pressings but I won't break the bank to have them. Thank you and take care. ♥️🤗

[@bigedhaaheo]

Aloha Melinda, Another Great topic. I my personal self has seen & felt changes in the New & used market of Vinyl. When I worked in a used book & music store in yhe late 1980's we would purchase a record album for a $1.00 & sell it for $3.00. Today here in Honolulu Hawaii, If they buy it for a $1.00, they might sell it for 5 to 7. Rent prices in Honolulu Hawaii is ridiculous. Thank goodness for used records to keep the record shops afloat. The margin on new records are so small & today as a store your unable to send them back if they don't sell, where as in the 1970's we could send them back. As far as first pressings, I'll pay for something I really want. For instance I enjoy Def leopard, but not enough to pay that much for one with a shrink wrap & hype sticker, but if it was a Rory Gallagher Blueprint record with shrink wrap and hype sticker I would, because I either had a copy growing up & would love to have one that I had when I was younger. Same with your Van Halen, if given the opportunity to purchase mint OG'S you just might because it's your favorite band. As far as your grails I thought you were going to show Led Zeppelin 4 Promo Copy. As far as slowing down buying records, I too have been cutting down, I have some health challenges I'm addressing. I did sell 3 sealed autographed Taylor Swift Cd's for $150.00 ea & one of her record albums autographed also for $225.00. So I could pay for part of my Laser Cataract surgery. It was OK, because I like the music but that's it. Was keeping them for trade or gifting.but they are gone now. I shared my white label Alice Cooper record albums on Instagram a while back, I hope I don't need to sell them. We will see depending On my new health treatment.

[@MelindaMurphy]

For whatever reasons, The Stooges and The Beatles records showed up as the most valuable but the Led Zeppelin promo is definitely more expensive. I know Hawaii is an expensive state to live in but it's just so beautiful. I'm glad you are able to find great records there for a fair price. Some bands are worth the extra money. ♥️ Thank you and Mahalo! 🌴🌞

[@Brewin62]

It always gets down to economics and whatever the market will bear. Music fans must determine their own monetary pain threshold whether its vinyl prices or concert tickets. It forces us to be more selective and that’s probably good for both our pocketbooks and the overall quality of our record collections in the long run.

[@MelindaMurphy]

I agree. We all have our own pain threshold and it's determined by how much we truly want a certain record. I know I have been more selective this year. That's not a bad thing. Thank you and take care. 🤗♥️

[@tobybeau2112]

In the 1970s, regular album prices were $4.99 single album, $8.99 double album. Cassette tape and 8-track tàpe were $7.00 - $10.00. In the 1980s, albums went to $7.99 - $15.99.

[@MelindaMurphy]

Prices will always continue to go up. I'm very sorry for the delayed response. For some reason, I just saw this comment. Thank you and have a great week. 🤗♥️

[@angaudlinn]

I'm not sure how the taxation on used records work in the US, but over here the cost of running a second hand record store, paying decent for used items (many sellers are also customers), and then adding taxes and a fair amount that can go to wages, rent and, to be honest, the cost of unsold crap and stolen goodies, isn't a walk in the park. But yes, some stores really squeeze the collectors for more than what's reasonable. I agree there. ...and now I hear that you brought that up later in the video too. :)

[@MelindaMurphy]

Yes, my rant was followed up with true facts about why records cost what they do. When I think about the life of a record store owner, I am less frustrated with the higher prices. Thank you and take care. ♥️🤗

[@anthonyshiach5049]

Hi Melinda, my rant is that I recently purchased Richard Thomson’s Ship to Shore as I recently saw him 8n concert and the songs sounded great! Turns out it’s a double album with 3 sides of music and a blank side of one of the discs, although I love Richard he must have plenty of live stuff he could have put on fourth side! He could have recorded some of songs from tour! Rant over and the 3 sides are good! PS I paid about £40 for it, about $50 US!

[@MelindaMurphy]

I agree. I don't enjoy paying for 2 LPs and only getting three sides of music. That's just wrong. Thankfully, it's an artist you love and a record that you will thoroughly enjoy. Thank you and take care. ♥️🤗

[@marktait2371]

mate i saw the record our indie mid 40s dollar price only have heard the single great you saw himmon current tour i saw him once i a bar 90s just him the cd i feel so good was the song on the radio then we were surprised he came there probably in between shows wirh his band maybe or just did a solo tour

[@marktait2371]

years ago i bought jimi at bbc same 4th side was blank numerous other songs from bbc could have added

[@mikesrockinrelics]

Completely agree. I traded a bunch of (in my mind) 5.00 records to a guy for 1 grail. My thought was to just pick these up again and it would be easy to find. I was big time wrong. How is Foreigner $20? These million selling commons are getting so costly. But be patient, the new collectors will bail and things will go down.

[@MelindaMurphy]

I agree. Foreigner albums used to be so reasonably priced. I understand why you traded those records and I still think you were smart to do that. Surely these common records will come down in price again. Thank you and take care. 🤗♥️

[@mikesrockinrelics]

@MelindaMurphy yeah I traded for a Nick Drake Pink Moon UK so I'm happy but the replacing of these has been harder than I thought. I just posted a video on my channel this morning about trying to track them down at a record show and it was an eye opener. Keep up the great work 👍

[@bargemover4270]

I think the question on vintage records is. There's no real standard in pricing. There's an estimate on how many copies exist or are seen. When you use a site like discogs the question becomes. How many times has the price been nudged up wards in price? So, if an album is agreed on at $20.00 and the next person bumps it by $5.00 and so on. I've been to a shop that used ebay for a price point. In that case, point 135 will give you sold on ebay. Tracy Chapman album as an example in New York, $120.00 unopened O.G. w/ hype sticker. In Iowa opened O.G. and no hype sticker $140.00. And in Wisconsin opened O.G. are you ready....$35.00 and the two opened were VG+ or above. I travel coast to coast and always find time to go crate digging. I also use my Google lens quick reference and take pictures of ones I'm on the hunt for.

[@MelindaMurphy]

I have seen that Tracy Chapman record countless times and the prices do truly vary. Record store owners have a right to use sources like Discogs and eBay and unfortunately for buyers that has become the norm. Thank you and take care. ♥️🤗

[@TRamone01]

Higher prices have made me more selective. At the last record fair, I bought a mobile fidelity copy of Image for $70. I wanted something I thought was really good. Took me a while to decide and it's nice being among fellow collectors. Thanks!

[@MelindaMurphy]

I agree. I love talking to other music collectors. ♥️ The MoFi Imagine was an excellent choice. Thank you and take care. ♥️🤗

[@louisbonilla6780]

Having a budget for music that will only support reissues I'm OK with it - all the old stuff I already have so I''ll just get new releases - the story of the store owner (really great looking store - reminded me of one of my favorite stores in Hoboken NJ ) - sounds exhausting but profitable - I figure a $40 Mint OG he probably paid $10 so the profit margin isn't bad - the cost of reissues is high mainly because all our pressing plants are in short supply and we rely on European connections - all in all vinyl is a tricky business to get into - Great video Melinda❤See you next week~

[@MelindaMurphy]

I agree, it's tricky. I would think it would be hard to make a great living by having a record store but I do know some people make it happen. 🤗♥️ I still buy some vintage records but I am more into the high quality reissues, especially for my jazz collection. Thank you and take care. ♥️🤗

[@arturoalmazan5262]

it's nund boggling the way the vinyl industry has become greedy. but its very simple since people buy and buy vinyl it's in the supply and demand I guess. great video as always beautiful melinda. mind * boggling

[@MelindaMurphy]

I completely agree that the supply and demand of vinyl is what dictates the price. Thank you very much. Have a great day. ♥️🤗

[@Evan-tj1te]

Just a heads up, I completely understand wanting an original pressing. However, the recent Walmart Exclusive of Metal Health sounds just as good as my original, with a quieter playing surface. I totally agree with you, though. Used records prices have gone through the roof! Just last week, I saw a used copy of Bella Donna for $35. Ridiculous price for a common record. Great video, as always, Melinda!

[@MelindaMurphy]

That's good to hear regarding Quiet Riot. I had bought a Music On Vinyl reissue that didn't sound good at all. I'm glad a good reissue now exists. Bella Donna is a very common record. I can't believe they are now charging $35 for a copy. 😳 Yikes! Thank you and take care.

[@VinylLS.]

Hi Melinda! Interesting topic that I've been thinking about recently and discussing with other vinyl collectors. I've had vinyl since the mid-80s. What bothers me most about today's vinyl releases is the often poor sound quality. I've noticed this especially with colored vinyl. These records often look fantastic, but the sound leaves a lot to be desired. Not all colored discs, of course. But I tend to buy mostly black vinyl again. And unfortunately the old records have become very expensive. In the last few months I've bought both brand new and old vinyl. And all I can say is that the old vinyl simply sounds much better. I don't like digital reissues. I might as well buy a CD. But I'm not a fan of CDs or streaming. With new vinyl you always hear noise, especially between songs, crackling, popping - it's just no fun. An example - I bought the Dead Or Alive album "Youthquake" in the original 1985 UK pressing for a good price. It's unbelievable how fantastic this rather old record sounds! There are later, newer editions - some in colored vinyl - and none of these releases come anywhere close to the original. Not even a CD! That's why I'm now staying away from new releases or new editions. I now much prefer to buy vinyl from Japan. Very sturdy covers, excellent sound quality and nice extras like inserts, OBI, lyrics. And the best thing - the old records are much cheaper than here in Europe or the USA. I rarely order vinyl from the USA, but every now and then. But it's not worth it, because the shipping costs to Europe are more expensive than the vinyl. On top of that, there are customs fees. And to be honest, the quality of the US records is the same as the new European releases. Prices have risen in Europe just as much as in the USA. Both for new releases and for vintage vinyl. So for me it means comparing prices and only buying what is really of quality. A question for you - do you buy vinyl after listening to it or do you just buy records on a whim and what do you do with vinyl that you don't like? Best wishes from Lindsay

[@MelindaMurphy]

I'm sorry the shipping prices are so crazy. That's such a bummer. I agree with you that in many cases, the reissue doesn't hold up to an original. I am very picky about what reissues I get. They have to have a reputation for sounding great. Thank you and take care. ♥️🤗

[@peterx1957]

Hey Melinda, interesting video. Having been on both sides of the music store counter, I have a full appreciation of how hard record retailers have it. While I didn't dabble into buying and selling used vinyl, the reality of the 'botton line' is ever present. I am somewhat stunned at the pricing of most used vinyl especially when one looks at what the items are. These days, I tend to buy new & used records that catch my eye or pique my interest, such as what you saw in my last haul video. Pricing is a major factor of course and unfortunately reissue vinyl is IMHO overpriced even allowing for inflation comparison. I think that $59 AUD for a new LP here is over the odds but that's the average ballpark price here. I think it will get to a point where some record collectors will wind down their buying frequency rate. If we don't run out of storage space first. Love your work as always. Take care 😘👍

[@MelindaMurphy]

The prices in Australia are definitely more than what we pay here in the US. Every time I want to complain, I am reminded that it could be a lot worse. I'm sure the struggles for many record stores are very real. It's hard to make a profit on the new releases and it's hard to get your hands on a good vintage collection. That takes a lot of hustle. You did show some great records in that video. Great deals are still out there. Thank you and take care. 🤗♥️

[@JoeTreffiletti]

Awesome video melinda. I wanted to ask you, is it true that vinyl records are dying out? I saw a video about that the other day, so I had to ask you about that. Have a great night! 🥰🤘🤘

[@MelindaMurphy]

Thank you for your question. No, there was a report saying that vinyl sales were down but that report was debunked. Record sales are still up. People are still enjoying their vinyl collections. I know from my viewers that they are personally buying less due to the higher cost of living but vinyl is not going anywhere. ♥️ Thank you and take care. 🤗

[@JoeTreffiletti]

@@MelindaMurphy That is great to hear it's not! You and family have a great day! ☮