Why People Are Walking Away From Vinyl Records - Are Sales Really Down?

[@michaeljacobson4844]

I confess, I recently traded in an Ariana Grande record, but only because I'm holding out for Ariana Venti...

[@MelindaMurphy]

Oh my goodness. 😄😄😄

[@steveh545]

😂

[@BalderBorador]

I hear she's much more... Satisfying! ☕

[@richardingamells7213]

​@@MelindaMurphy OMG indeed lol. Who exactly is Aria Grandi?! As a vinyl collector aswell as a music lover of over 5 decades I can tell you vinyl here in the UK is still gaining in popularity especially amongst youngsters. Vintage 60s Jamaican reggae & US soul records command huge prices. Along with classic rock albums circa the 60s & early 70s. And let's be utterly realistic Harry Styles Adele Coldplay in no way have the musical ability of Steely Dan Deep Purple the Beatles the Kinks the Motown acts et al had. And I say this as a musician

[@richardingamells7213]

😅😂

[@ronvitale]

I’m one of those people buying used CDs. Even if I buy a new CD, it’s only $13, but used CDs can be $1 to $7 in my area. It’s a great way to hear really good quality sound without having to pay for a monthly streaming service.

[@MelindaMurphy]

I understand why you are going for CDs. It's such a great deal. Thank you and take care. ♥️🤗

[@opentuned289]

We need to shut up, or record companies start to rise cd prices :)

[@zoltanszabo4242]

New CD prices went up the last few years. I visited a store in Amsterdam that carried the new stuff I wanted and each CD was in the 15-20 EUR range. I think the gap is getting smaller. It was expected as CD is becoming more of a niche market. Many albums get one single worldwide edition, as earlier there were regional editions. That means that there is a shipping and customs tax buried in that price tag.

[@me_fault]

looking at CD releases on Bandcamp, often the shipping cost is almost as much as the CD.

[@thenaturalmidsouth9536]

I buy used CDs (occasionally they're unopened) at estate sales for $1-2 per CD. Check out estate sales if you're looking for CDs. Or vinyl. Or DVDs. Cheaper than digital and it's YOURS.

[@BruceColon-BSides]

Prices have gotten insane and it’s taken a lot of the fun out of collecting.

[@stevebird9510]

For sure. I used to get great records for $5 and under but suddenly they were $20 and more.

[@MelindaMurphy]

I agree that some records have gotten really expensive. And with the cost of everything going up, it's tougher to be able to buy them anyway. Thank you and take care. 🤗♥️

[@vagabond197979]

Totally! Isn't it fun to think about where you found XYZ record that you love and how much of a deal it was? That used to be a big part of the fun.

[@johnh5896]

Viynal is up 10 x from 1977 but cars are up 15 x from 77 I’m 68 now ringing ears and retired so not much money but a great recorded album has the edge from even sacd

[@prairiedogsareextant]

@@johnh5896 Not if ya buy a piece of shit. I got my beater for 3 K. But 40 bucks for a record? Boy howdy, was I a dimwit for trading in all my vinyl for CDs back in the day.

[@MrRubasso]

I'm 46 years old and I decided to collect physical media, initially repurchasing what I lost in a theft. When I researched the prices of vinyl records for the bands I like (Pink Floyd, Rush, Deep Purple, The Police etc.) I had a shock. An absurdity that I cannot afford as a family man. I'm buying everything on CDs.

[@CDRabbitHole]

same here bud

[@PeterR1chard]

Good move. One day CDs will be the new vinyl.

[@davidcleghorn6639]

CDs are cheaper bring them back

[@MelindaMurphy]

I'm so sorry that someone stole your records. That would be infuriating. The cost to replace them would be huge. Records by Pink Floyd, Led Zeppelin and others are very expensive right now. Hopefully, things will calm down and the prices will level out. In the meantime cds are a great bargain. Thank you and take care. 🤗♥️

[@badvinyl4531]

No worries man. I just buy used then. Go to garage sales and such . Some shops out crazy prices on used too. It's all supply and demand. If their sales slow up they will have to drop their prices. Hang in there man.

[@simonlin6376]

One thing I like about Vinyl is the beautiful cover and sleeves. Holding a physical copy provides a sense of connection between me and the artists.

[@James-c8s9z]

I'm 74 years old. I've been collecting since I was12. I have made my collection now by quality not quantity. Much more affordable..

[@cygnus618]

The price of vinyl is just nuts. The bubble is going to burst.

[@christopherrichardson5352]

Speaking for myself I got off the vinyl bandwagon back when CD entered the market in the early 80s and I haven't looked back. I know CD started out not sounding near as good as its vinyl counterparts, but that has changed dramatically over the past 40 years as newer and better hardware to play CDs has come along. Those original CDs in the 80s were in most cases direct transfers from the master tapes. They are still my most treasured CDs in my collection. I don't go for the constant flow of "remastered" CDs which have flooded the market. They can in some instances be a sonic improvement, but in my personal experience the majority are NOT. As for getting back on board the vinyl bandwagon it is just too expensive for not just records, but in particular a proper high end turntable/tonearm/cartridge combination to play them as they should be. This along with the cleaning of the records themselves just doesn't make vinyl playback feasible for someone like myself. I will be sticking with my CDs and I am very happy to do so. Plus the CDs I own from 40 plus years ago sound just as good now as they did back then. In fact they sound better because we have far superior hardware to play them on now and that technology steadily improves over time. CDs simply sound good to these 56 year old ears.

[@MelindaMurphy]

I hope not. It's definitely slowing down a little bit hopefully, it's here to stay. Thank you and take care ♥️🤗

[@peterkarlsson1825]

@@christopherrichardson5352 Feel just the same, and the CDs are dirt cheap right now.

[@BalderBorador]

​@@christopherrichardson5352The CD's of the early 80's were all produced in Germany. Or you could get the Japanese imports that then cost as much as a new double vinyl LP today. They didn't start making CD's in the US until 1985 and onward. Many of those CD's were not coated and sealed enough and have lost their battle to laser rot. Causing them to skip or lose a channel to horrible static in the playback. Worse case, they actually changed color to a blueish gold and would come up with ERROR on the digital display. This was the reasoning for companies in the US to get the proper sealant formula corrected and reissue and remaster entire catalogs. These remastered releases in the 90's were truly remastered and sound better than the early 80's German and even many Japanese CD's. As far as there being "better" CD players? That's not even a thing unless you find one out of the US because a simple search will show you some junk, 100% plastic no-name that if you lean on by mistake, it will cave in! The days of the metal chassis decks with trustworthy company names are a thing of a bygone era! It would be far better to buy a refurbished, solid deck with a reputable name. The market for decent to insane turntables is unmeasurable!

[@BalderBorador]

I know it will burst because the plants that produced all of these overstocked records will start slashing prices to move their stock.

[@almosthuman56]

I was at a record store the other day and the prices were outragious. I am all for supporting record stores and am willing to pay a little more that how much they are online. But this place was price gouging. That I can not support. Sad. And my favorite record store just closed. But I will never stop collecting Vinyl. I know my comment is kinda off topic. But it does relate on walking away from record stores. Another great video, Melinda. Take care.

[@shoullin1761]

The record store I like to shop at does as well. I have to be careful with what I purchase from them

[@MelindaMurphy]

It’s always sad to see a record store close. Especially if it's your favorite. 💔 The prices are high especially with all of the other expenses in life. I know you are building a house so that is probably your top priority at the moment financially. Like you, I will always have records. They have always been a part of my life and they always will be. Thank you and take care. ♥️🤗

[@shoullin1761]

@@marktait2371 the record shop I use was selling a panic at the disco record in the used section for $20. They had a brand new record of the same title for $25.

[@BalderBorador]

​@@shoullin1761That's why with my vinyl addiction, I can't even go in! I drive home and have an anxiety attack! Damn you Newbury Comics! 😂

[@paulaj2829]

I was in France last week & I went to a vinyl music store & bought 3 albums ??? one 19 euro & 2 at 10 euro.. the one 19 euro was OK.. the one 10 euro below average & the other 10 euro was absolutely perfect.. but you have to look around for these bargains because the main store prices are way to high .

[@alexcrim7001]

The only thing that is really getting on my nerves is the quality control on a lot of new vinyl, and for what you have to pay for them, it has made me stick to my old vintage copies.

[@MelindaMurphy]

I'm hearing so many people this very thing in the comments. Thank you and take care. 🤗♥️

[@Pluralofvinylisvinyls]

I usually wait until I can find an open copy to buy. Only way to make sure there’s no warpage et cetera.

[@marioalleyne8559]

I tend to like why records round and flat as well😂

[@tontonseoul4123]

Old one are best. Don’t like the 180 g…

[@BigYouDog]

Im Britsh. In 1974, I was in the Quality Control department of the pressing factory of the UK Phillips Deutsche Grammophon Co. We pressed everything, and I can say that on any day, even the cheap albums got the same checks as the DG pressings. Nowadays, it seems that as long as it's 180g (a thicker slab of vinyl will not disguise poorly maintained stampers) and round, it will sell.

[@thomashaugsness1003]

I’m 62 and got into records at a very young age. In the 80’s I was able to buy some “real” stereo equipment, not the cheap stuff, and still use it to this day. All of my record purchases now are used, for the simple fact that I listen to classical music and record companies have virtually no new releases, and no record stores carry any of the new classical music being released. The record industry back in the 70s and 80s put a ton of effort in classical music and the market had so much to pick from - not anymore. Besides, used classical records are usually in better condition simply because the people that bought them new took care of their collections and typically didn’t drag them around to friend’s homes and play them to death,etc. And since classical “doesn’t sell near as well as rock or pop music” you can pick up near mint used vinyl for $5 each or less. As far as proving new records, if you factor in inflation, new records now are about on par with what they would have cost new back in the 70s and 80s, I think it’s more to do with the fact that listening to music has become a “background” to our lives rather than an “experience.” I don’t see the younger generation sitting down with a newly purchased record and listening to it from beginning to end with no distractions, following along with the lyrics, etc. They just start playing it and then work on laundry, maybe working from home, other chores, everything except giving full attention to the music. They are missing out.

[@mr.wilkinson7117]

I’m getting ready to open a record store in my area and I believe I know what is going on here… both Walmart and Target take all of their returns (not just vinyl, but everything) and put them on pallets and sells the pallets to resellers. All of the albums you mentioned (Adele, Harry Styles, Ariana Grande and others like the new Justin Timberlake) are common on these pallets and the resellers are bringing these to stores and dumping / selling these. I’ve bought many bulk return records from Target and Walmart and unfortunately they are filled with the titles you mentioned. Great video. Thanks for posting.

[@michaelpeterson279]

My record purchasing in 2024 is probably 20% of what it was from 2020-2023.

[@MelindaMurphy]

I would say my percentage is the same or more. I really cut back this year. Thank you and take care. 🤗♥️

[@TheDreamtimezzz]

When the economy is terrible things like collectibles, which are disposable income areas, suffer.

[@robertjermantowicz-uw3iw]

​@@TheDreamtimezzzNothing wrong with the US economy. Stop listening to Trump!

[@seanwills4946]

I am heading towards 60 and have been listening and collecting music for most of my life. The very first album i bought was Old, New, Borrowed and Blue by Slade when i was 9 years old which i still have and i have a large collection of original release classic rock vinyl that I have collected over the years. I do stream music as with a cell phone or tablet we can listen to music wherever we are and we basically have the world at our finger tips but there is something about holding a vinyl album in your hands that is special and i do not think I will ever stop collecting.

[@MelindaMurphy]

Perfectly said. We have everything at our fingertips but vinyl is something special. Thank you and take care. 🤗♥️

[@DanielKatzel]

Exactly - my first 45 was The Seekers "Georgy Girl"(B side "I'll Never Find Another You") & first "heavier" album Deep Purple's "Machinehead", which I've had since it came out in '72 (I was also 9 at the time -lol). It's as if my records are my children, though of course, my daughter will always be infinitely more valuable to me.

[@jpsalazar706]

I'm 50 and when I find a record that I haven't seen in decades, gives me an emotional moment. I go back to a time when I was just a high-school boy ,loving my idols. Yes you are 100% correct!

[@MelindaMurphy]

I agree. That's such a cool experience. 🤗♥️ Thank you and take care.

[@TheJoshandFriendsPodcast]

I saw a newly pressed Bob Dylan record priced at $55 and laughed my ass off because I got the same piece of vinyl for $1 at Goodwill 10 years ago. Hilarious.

[@octagonseventynine1253]

Which album was it? Even his lesser 1980’s stuff like Shot of Love and Knocked Out Loaded is super expensive now.

[@TheJoshandFriendsPodcast]

@ The Times They Are a-Changin' (1964)

[@andrewclarke6899]

I have just been looking at the latest mo-fi vinyl, complete with archive quality sleeves and extra wide grooves so that you need two LPs and not one, produced from the original masters. selling for about Australian $124.00. It is 100% Dad rock. Well I'm a granddad, and I ain't buying it!

[@johnstone4913]

Went to a record/cd show just two weeks ago, attendance was lower than another show in the same place last summer, the price difference between used records and cds is striking, I can see where the price shock is setting in for some people with records. I only buy cds because of the price difference and I also have a cd player in my car (more of a rarity these days) plus one at home.

[@tom7979]

I’m a 23 year old collector in the UK and I’ve been into vinyl since I was 12. I’m personally a ride-or-die vinyl collector, and not even the price hikes have stopped me buying altogether. Admittedly I’ve slowed down, but nothing will ever make me stop, and I’m actually looking to upgrade my turntable this Christmas. But in all honesty, I think being selective with what you buy is a good collecting practice in general. There’s no use in having records in my collection that get played a couple of times and then left to collect dust, even if they were cheap, because that’s storage space taken up unnecessarily. Whilst I’m happy that it’s been confirmed that vinyl sales have in fact gone up, I still think the industry still needs to be careful not to price themselves out of business. Our main vinyl retailer here in England is HMV, and years ago they had a deal where you’d get 3 records for £45. Then it went up to 3 for £55, and just a few days ago it went up to 3 for £66. I mean, give me a break. What’s the incentive for me to go to the shop any more when the “deal” is the same price as Amazon? They take me for an idiot if they think I don’t notice. But then everybody shakes their heads when the shops all shut down? You can hardly blame the consumer for that, especially in economic times like these. And another issue is quality control. I’m aware that the demand is much higher than it was 10 years ago but the record companies need to get it together and stop selling faulty records all the time, especially at these prices. I personally have stopped buying old vinyl. The price of that has gone up so much that it’s not worth tracking down because they’re almost as expensive as a brand new copy. Used records that used to cost £5 are now selling for almost £20. Having said that, I do look for second hand copies of newer pressings. One of my best vinyl purchases this year was the 2012 pressing of Lady Soul by Aretha Franklin still in the shrink wrap for £14, and it plays wonderfully. Despite my frustrations with vinyl at the moment, I’m not going anywhere. The joy that vinyl brings me will never be overridden by the inconvenience of it all, even if I do have to buy less frequently and more selectively. As always, love your videos.

[@MelindaMurphy]

Best wishes to you as you shop for a new Christmas turntable. I'm with you, the joy vinyl brings is worth the expense and inconvenience. 🤗♥️ Thank you and take care.

[@analoguecity3454]

That's fantastic to hear young man!

[@barrystagg5479]

My local HMV just closed down. Totally agree about the new price deals. Their summer on line sale was really good. I am 66, having to still work, with lots of commitments . I just can't justify the prices. At our local Salvation army store, I recently bought 2 copies of Handel's Messiah 3 LP box sets very old but near mint for one pound. Also they are selling 10 CDs or dvds for a pound. At the same store I bought a still sealed Jeff Buckley Grace Vinyl for a pound. Enuff said.

[@nobbynoris]

There is an HMV where I live. I visit it regularly. The vinyl section is as extensive as the CD section. But my God, the prices. I've seen as much as £45 for a single LP ('three records for £45' sounds hopelessly nostalgic). I agree with you that we still need on-site music shops. It's vital to provide essential competition to Bezos with his price-gouging and his slaver-farm workplaces. I think the issue is that vinyl retailers are seeking to trade on the 'heritage/nostalgia' aspect of records and they assume this will induce consumers to pay a premium for what is, let's face it, outmoded technology. I'm old, meaning I grew up in the original vinyl era. I remember when an album cost around £5. I actually hated LPs, myself. I was one of those weirdos who preferred audio cassettes. LPs came in cardboard sleeves which quickly got dogeared, they took up shitloads of space and the whole ritual of carefully placing the album on the turntable, and then having to carefully turn it over again some time later just seemed unnecessarily fraught when you just wanted to hear some music. Finally, if I had as much vinyl as I have CDs, I would have to buy out my neighbours so as to use their property to store all the buggers. I wish you every joy with your collection. It will accompany you your whole lifetime. But records just aren't for me.

[@mikebabuin1209]

I have been listening and collecting vinyl for over 50 years and will stop when I'm 6' under. I buy for the listening experience, so an original used LP in NM condition is often times the best sounding pressing of an LP - not always- but very often. Price escalation inho is due largely to discog and ebay gouging and seller trickery. I have specific strategies for finding and buying LPs at reasonable prices in NM or VG++ condition. Maybe I will do a youtube video on that oneday.

[@Mark-j5h2b]

Mike from the In Groove just did a great video on this topic. As a long-time record store owner he really has the pulse of the industry.

[@MelindaMurphy]

Yes!!! I saw it and it was very good. I had already made my video on this and it was great to hear from another record store owner. The record store owners are the ones most affected and it sounds like he is doing great. ♥️🤗 Thank you and take care.

[@analoguecity3454]

He only has the physical store market, he's not counting Amazon and Discogs as other online groups!

[@AppleMan531]

Hi Melinda. My name is Eliot Wien. I responded a few times on the In Groove video. What's turning people away from collecting vinyl are the High Prices, and FOMO(Fear of Missing Out). People are getting tired of getting up really early to get on line for RSD only to find out that down the road the titles are being reissued. People are also getting tired of seeing the same titles being reissued over and over. Warner/Rhino has a budget series of Greatest Hit collections called Now Playing. I believe they understand the high price situation because their titles are roughly $19.98 a copy! I've managed Record stores in my lifetime like Colony Records in NYC and Zig Zag Records in Brooklyn, NY and remember when record companies addressed the pricing situation by offering Budget series. Sony had the Nice Price series, Warner Bros had Super Savers, and Capitol Records also had a Budget line. I also remember places like Korvettes that sold records at Discount prices. That's why artists sold millions of copies back in the 70's and 80's. If the record companies are complaining that sales are off, it's all down to pricing and selection!

[@MelindaMurphy]

You make excellent points. Well said. I share the frustration with your RSD comment. Thank you and take care. 🤗♥️

[@marktait2371]

i saw a few of those warner rhinos not many i recently bought a few used vinlys lynn anderson donna fargo with nice price and loggins messina still had shrink super savers and nice price like 4.99 6.99 kenny what about they were then i think the warner rhino was spencer davis i looked at ghits i already have golden series or maybe warren zevon cant recall rsd last fall ahh new yawkahs haha my gdad was from brooklyn nephew currently lives there my late fawdah could run that bawhl old buddies accents flushing queens haha we still laugh my brother and he was a footbawhl star ny times super 11 in 53 other rhino reissue was b52s ghits and first 3 records but dont think they were budget series

[@DanielKatzel]

Korvette's - now THAT brought back memories for this "old fart"- lol...

[@WVMothman]

I have a JVC stereo from 1975, and I kept a base vinyl collection of around 300 records over a lifetime....mostly the classics I grew up with in the 70's & 80's. If I run into a used copy of Santana's "Abraxas" for example I'll pick it up.

[@johndasilva2686]

Good informative post. I use to have about 200 funk & soul albums from the 1970s / 1980s . I now have over 100 💿 cds. The sound is crisp clear and pure as water. You can plug in your headphones 🎧 , drink beer 🍻 and dance the night away via the remote control. You can't do that with snap crackle and pop jump albums. Plus on cds you can still get excellent art covers and super information.

[@harrysmusicroom]

I find that I rarely buy any "new" releases anymore. I would much rather dig through used records at stores or record shows. Bigger bang for the buck. You're 100% correct about CDs. Now is the time to pick them up.

[@MelindaMurphy]

I think that the vintage records will always be the ones people seek to have. Digging is a great part of the hobby and I have had so much fun at the record fairs I have been able to attend. CDs are the better bargain but I prefer vinyl. Thank you and take care. ♥️🤗

[@Maddog3806]

I still love loading up a LP and hearing some of the best sounds ever made. Thanks Melinda for your thoughts and insight.

[@MelindaMurphy]

It is so satisfying to play a record and hear the music that way. 🤗♥️ Thank you and take care.

[@analoguecity3454]

Yes, CDs were rushed out on the market unfinished! They cut off at 20k and don't capture all the little "nuances" that make that realistic "in-the-room" sound!😊

[@DJGerryfromStarlightMusic]

Hi Melinda, You are spot on with your analysis of this situation!

[@MelindaMurphy]

Thank you! 🤗♥️

[@Eric-q9n]

Enjoyed the video Melinda! I’m strictly a buyer and collector of CDs, but I can appreciate those who admire vinyl like yourself. A good friend of mine has both formats and we talk often because of our love of music. I certainly hope the demand for physical media hasn’t dropped off. BTW, I like your SourcePoint 10 Speakers. Andrew Jones is a brilliant designer! His TAD CR1’s reside in my dedicated listening room.

[@kaleb.2turnt]

I’m a 16 year old who started collecting in April 2024. I got two Lana Del Rey records at Target, and bought an audio technica turntable in May. I have about 40 records in my collection now, I absolutely love records. I will play a record before streaming any day. When I started collecting I thought $27-40 for an LP, was normal but it’s really expensive. My grandfather told me in the 80s - 90s, when he was collecting was about $5-10. Which sounds crazy to me. I love this hobby and don’t wanna stop but, 3LPs are around $60 double LPs are $40 and single LPs are 27-40$. The prices are really high and I don’t see myself collecting if it gets any higher. Great video

[@ruz5499]

At 57 I am simultaneously too old and too young for Vinyl. I was in my teens when CDs supplanted vinyl and agreed with every reason why. CDs are my physical media of choice.

[@ibuprofen303]

You're not too young. I am 53 and love vinyl. But I love CD's as well. For me, it depends on the genre.

[@markselvisforeveryonechann1153]

I stumbled on your great channel about 18 months ago and love it. You have an engaging way you discuss things to your audience! Like you, I grew up on vinyl in the 70s. My dear mother used to buy me 45s and LPs from the time I was about four years old, and just having a physical copy in your hands, some with amazing gatefolds just brings back all those wonderful memories for me! As you mentioned, I do think the nostalgic record lovers will continue to buy, but I believe largely the younger audience has kind of shied away, mainly because of the economic times that we’re in. I for one will continue to buy vinyl, but at a slower pace. By the way, I recently picked up Van Halen II from Mofi. In a word, spectacular! Keep the fantastic videos coming!

[@brianmoore581]

I love your channel, too, Melinda. One thing I have noticed on KZbin lately is that while I can respond to comments, I can't post an original comment. It's strange. I don't know if there's something wrong with my phone or if this is something new to KZbin. Have you heard anything like this from other people?

[@MelindaMurphy]

That VH MoFi is outstanding. I can't wait for Women and Children First. ♥️ We grew up at the same time. Records were so special. I would sit and stare at the album covers for hours. So nostalgic. Thank you and take care. ♥️🤗

[@shaunmcmullin]

Goodwill last week had 6 Crossley turntables and ebay currently has 18 high end record cleaners. A couple years ago there were next to zero of those at these places. This is how I determine the market is going down - when people are obviously selling/giving away their equipment. I've also noticed recent record releases showing up at record stores so that also is a trend.

[@MelindaMurphy]

That's a fascinating observation. It's always interesting to track trends like that. Thank you and take care. ♥️🤗

[@CiscoKidRecords-k1s]

I'm an "older collector" (early 60's) and I still love buying records, and even more, I love digging for "gold" in vinyl collections and stores. Yard sales, garage sales, pop up markets, thrift and antique stores - I love 'em all! Never know what you will find. And I buy as many CD's and I buy used records. It's all about the music!

[@megswaks1277]

Some very good points in your video. I have cut back my LP purchases by about 80% from previous years. Most notably is the price of good sounding LP’s have gone up $10-15 since 2020. How many copies of ‘Dark Side of the Moon’ or Led Zeppelin II does someone need? Nothing like chasing another copy of a record that has been issued, re-issued, remastered! 180 gram! 200 gram! 45RPM! Half-Speed mastered! I have also found that most all record players are not automatic as they were back in the day when vinyl was king. With an average length of 20-23 minutes per side having to stop what you are doing and change the side can be sometimes inconvenient. Last year I invested some $$’s into a nice CD player and have rediscovered I enjoy listening to a CD for an extended time without the interruptions.

[@ExileOnMyStreet]

The younger generations generally don't have attachments to "things" in general. They don't need to own movies, music or media. They are the age of the internet. Younger people also have more debt than we did growing up and they just don't want as much stuff as we did.

[@MelindaMurphy]

I know my daughter doesn't want the same things that I did. She doesn't want my china or any of my furniture. Lol. Everything is at the touch of their fingertips in their phones so they just aren't nostalgic in the same way we are about things. You're right, student loan debt and the cost of living are killing the spirit of our children. Thank you and take care. 🤗♥️

[@ExileOnMyStreet]

@@StatetrooperBillyBlast A phone is a necessity in today's world, not so much movies, media and vinyl.

[@willisread]

@@StatetrooperBillyBlast A phone is a basic necessity in 2024 and frankly has been probably for the last 10 years or so.

[@tmdillon1969]

The younger generation is driving the resurgence in vinyl. I'm 55 and I'd say that at least 80% of the time I'm in any of our local record stores I'm significantly older than the people around me. Not to mention Swift and Elish have sold tons and tons of records in the last two years.

[@crazyprayingmantis5596]

My son is 25, he has a rather large 4k bluray collection. He prefers to own movies rather than stream them.

[@CookieCurls]

Personally, I wouldn’t even mind the prices so much if the quality was good. But I would say about half of the records I buy have QC issues or are poorly / rushed masters. Record stores make returns next to impossible, and I can’t in good conscience try to resell it knowing that it’s bad. I can’t justify the hobby when it feels like I’m throwing money away.

[@MelindaMurphy]

You're not alone in feeling this way. It is a common issue. Not all, but some companies need to work on their quality control. Thank you and take care. ♥️🤗

[@raysutton488]

I'm trying to slow down on the purchases but I don't know if I'll make it through the withdrawal symptoms the shakes, depression and the worst is the voices in my head saying things like you need one more, you'll never see that one again,your bills can wait at that price you can't leave it.and it goes on and on the voices don't stop think a 12 step program is needed

[@MelindaMurphy]

Lol. I can definitely relate. 😄 Thank you and take care. 🤗♥️

[@Duke2363]

And then if you see that special copy, take it home and it's manufactured like crap, you'll get more frustrated and depressed. I'm a no nonsense guy. That would drive me crazy. That's why I haven't returned to vinyl currently

[@necavenue]

You're absolutely correct. I think for the kids, vinyl is more of a cool trend to follow like buying used vintage clothes from the thrift store. It's not about nostalgia for them since they're obviously too young for that. For the older people, it IS about nostalgia. I myself am in the process of buying a $1K turntable + a $700 cartridge and getting back into vinyl's. I stopped listening to vinyl's back in the 90s when I got my first CD player, but I'm now ready to get back into analog. I also plan on recording my vinyl's onto FLAC so I could play it with my phone OTG. Digital audio is for listening to music on repeat. Analog especially vinyl is when you want the whole experience and spend the extra time to listen on the weekends, it's more intimate and special.

[@jayspeijer614]

I started collecting (mainly used) vinyl in the early 80s, when most records could be found for about $4 Cdn. As CDs became widely recognized as a superior medium, around 1990, record stores started blowing out their vinyl inventory to make room. At this time I really loaded up my vinyl collection, often getting 6 albums for $5 (less than a buck a pop - I still have the price stickers on the albums). Then as CDs started to come down in price (from around $26 initially) and the used stores obtained a large stock, I transitioned largely to CDs. At this point I could typically get decent used CDs for $4 - $8 each. And unlike vinyl, a used CD either sounds perfect or it doesn’t, and a quick visual inspection will usually reveal this. So I bought my ‘new’ music this way and also began to ‘upgrade’ many of my vinyl records to CD format, which I immensely prefer (the pops, skips and crackles do not sound ‘warm’ to me; they are quite irritating). Then, about 15 years ago a most perplexing marketing phenomenon happened: vinyl came back, in such a big way that I remain standing agog. This has worked out brilliantly for me because now CDs, both new and used, have continued to drop in price. For example, there have been low-budget box set releases that typically include 5 new CDs for $20. I love it. When the fickle market swings again and a new generation realizes that CDs sound better than vinyl, I’ll be ready again to scoop up the inevitable vinyl bargains once more. I’ve kept all my formats over the years (even cassettes) and store them in different rooms of the house (vinyl in the workout room, CDs in more serious listening locations…). Incidentally, a lot of people are unloading some really high quality audio gear (amplifiers, CD players, speakers, and yes: turntables), so I’ve actually been able to set up several good rigs in my home. I’ve pretty much never paid ‘top dollar’ for my music and never will. Oh, and I have never done streaming; I prefer to own my music completely. So there, that’s my story 😊

[@MelindaMurphy]

The last several years have been an excellent time to buy CDs. They have been such a bargain. I can only imagine the collection you must have filled with every format of music. ♥️ Thank you so much for sharing your experiences. Take care.

[@TheSkuncle]

You are spot on in this video. I think for younger collectors this is a fad that they have outgrown. I have a couple younger relatives who got into vinyl collecting. When I asked what kind of stereo they had they said they didn’t have a stereo at all. They just collected the records. I found this very strange. Apparently though that is very much a thing. So I wouldn’t be surprised if some of these younger people have grown tired of the records, and since they have nothing to play them on, are getting rid of them. For myself, I’ve been a record collector since I was about ten, and for the past 43 years I’ve never stopped. It slowed way down in the 90’s when vinyl was all but dead. But even then I would get what I could at tag sales or flea markets. Right now, I’m at the “I need to do some weeding out” stage. The reason is I’m running out of room. For me the fun is in the hunt, so I go to a used record store and come out with five or six albums but only spent maybe $30. Then I get home and think “Your record crates are full, where are you putting these?” But back to your point, I do think it’s a fad that has run its course for some and yes, our music was just better! 😜

[@MelindaMurphy]

The whole “I have a record collection but don’t have a turntable” is a strange phenomenon but it’s true. They are missing out on the best thing about vinyl. It's great to hear from a life long collector. Thank you and take care. 🤗♥️

[@nicholasgarratt5646]

I know someone who has done the same thing. The albums are used as art. I myself have vinyl frames and rotate some of my favourite albums so they are displayed on the wall.

[@cassiofonte8172]

They don't have the nostalgia so they are not missing anything. They are gaining in audio quality (provided they have the adequate equipment), portability, affordability (with streaming), convenience, accessibility to new artists, the easy of finding new music.... But don't get me wrong.... I'm all in for physical media.

[@bruno3973]

In the Netherlands a lot of young people including myself are starting to collect vinyl records again. But what I notice and the record store owners notice is that they al want new vinyl records, where back in the day people rather bought it secondhand.

[@MelindaMurphy]

That's interesting. The people I run into are all into used first pressing vinyl records or brand new audiophile label releases. Vintage vinyl is still king where I'm at. Thank you for your interesting perspective. 🤗♥️ Thank you and take care.

[@glennbarret-jy5ut]

I find that most record stores have relationships with their old loyal customers whom they alert when anything worth buying comes in. That's an issue where I live anyway. It's a guaranteed sale, but it's also a guaranteed way to chase away new customers

[@ratscoot]

Don’t know the US prices but in Europe there you can still find relative affordable vinyl. I was at the mega record fair in Den Bosch, The Netherlands (world’s biggest record fair) and I bought many records with prices ranges from 5-20€ in very good condition. Stones, Beatles, Hotel California etc. Most expensive record I bought was Appetite for destruction, the first cartoon album cover for 45€.

[@davestryjak6042]

I love your channel Malinda, I'm a huge Zeppelin guy have been since they were still around. It's funny to me the status they have achieved since they stopped being a performing band. The magazines and papers hated them back then! they were a fans group. And wow are you right on the prices on their vinyl now it's through the roof, I collect their promo 45s and they are radically expensive now. keep up the great work i think you are great.

[@franksherman1774]

It's only true.

[@MelindaMurphy]

The promos are so cool. Thank you so much for the kind words. Take care.

[@MrMojoRisin]

I love vinyl, but I haven’t bought a vinyl album for nearly a year. The prices are insane. It’s like 70 dollars for a new vinyl here in Australia.

[@MelindaMurphy]

Yikes. That's a lot of money. I would have to be extremely picky in that situation as well. Thank you and take care. 🤗♥️

[@dalesanders7571]

The only place in Adelaide I can find David Gilmours' new release on vinyl wants $85.00!

[@beatmet2355]

Shipping from there is expensive, too. I bought a 2014 mono Beatles album from AUS and shipping was almost $40.

[@Bluepilled-c5t]

Well, in 1988 they were $27-$30. So it’s not too bad really

[@robphilpott43]

I think you’re understating how exorbitant the prices for new release vinyl are in Australia. I was in JB Hi-Fi recently and $70 is very much the lower end. A lot of the time it’s $85-$100, all the way through to about $120.

[@vinylrules4838]

Let's not forget many people who were buying records didn't even own a turntable. They may have stopped buying as no way to play them and possibly selling what they own to used record stores. Love your channel! 🙂

[@ericelliott227]

Yes, very good point, they are called flippers and maybe that end of the market is waning or they are just getting tired (it takes a lot of energy to rip people off).

[@MelindaMurphy]

That is a great point. I hadn't thought of that. Thank you so much! Take care. ♥️🤗

[@tadreaming1]

The merchant at the InGroove in Phoenix has noticed that with his store. The flippers buying like 20 albums at a time have dried up. And he's fine with that he says.

[@kathk94]

I read an article from a while ago about how 50% of vinyl collectors in the US don't have turntables & only buy them to hang up as decoration

[@mjbfan791]

Happy New Year Melinda! I sold my CD collection years ago. I don’t think I’ll go back to buying them. New record prices are sky high right now. I can admit I over paid this past year for a few records. I’m definitely gonna slow down this new year. I’m gonna focus more on budget friendly classics. I have also noticed that my local Target & Wal-Mart doesn’t put out as many records as they use to. The display area looks quite empty.

[@MelindaMurphy]

Thank you and happy new year! I agree, the prices on some records have become crazy! 🤪

[@Audiorevue]

So I'm almost 40 and in spite of me being maybe that younger generation you're referring to, I came into vinyl far younger than some of my peers. Growing up in the '90s my parents were older and I was born very late in their life, my mom is almost 50 when I was born and my dad was 15 years older than her. When I was a kid my mom still had all of her records that she had from when she was a teenager, and we're talking the '60s, And she was always playing those records. We had an old Magnavox console TV that had a built-in record player and we used that. Threw my middle twenties and up until just a couple of years ago I had amassed a collection of maybe 3,000 records and finally decided to sell them off. I decided to do so because number one my wife and I were moving and we had moved a few times over a few year Time frame and I just got tired of lugging the records around, the other reason I sold them was because of cost. I got tired of wanting to buy an album and having it cost $40 or more in some cases. I also got tired of having to constantly worry about my equipment. I know not everybody does but for me I found that vinyl records and listening to them induced A type of OCD in me that made listening to music not very fun. You know music is supposed to be an entertainment format and me having to constantly worry about my stylist about my turntable about this and about that meant I wasn't having any sort of fun at all. I had a very large Blue Note collection which got sold to a local record store who was very happy to get them, plus I made some great money selling them. I have mostly switched to listening to CDs and now if I go into an antique store or a record store I don't even look at the vinyl I go immediately to the CD section. I did keep a few records though, mainly ones that just aren't available or ones that were so rare it's not even funny. Anyway great video and I was happy to watch it. Thanks

[@michaelrochester48]

Somebody had mentioned something very interesting that the peak year for good vinyl records is 1973 because just before the oil embargo because of the United States involvement in the Israeli, Egypt war we are using a very high quality vinyl for records and people say that’s why records like dark side of the moon sounds so goodfrom the year of production and then it deteriorated when record company started using cheaper material

[@MelindaMurphy]

Very true. As the quality nod vinyl declined, so did the listening experience. Thank you and take care. ♥️🤗

[@jsngallery]

and probably why records from japan, say, still sound good… they didn’t piss anyone off 🎉

[@DanielKatzel]

Interesting - I'd never given that much thought. Could be true, as I remember sitting in line for gas in that goofy GranTorino wagon my family owned when I was 10 (had a 351 Cleveland in it, tho- wish it were a Mustang...)

[@therecordchanger4038]

I'm done with vinyl. Can't afford it, and I'd be paying shipping charges because there are no good stores where I live. Even CDs - new ones - are getting harder to find. They're cutting back on packaging and charging more for new titles. So I finally gave up, and started doing some digital downloads even though I'd rather not. I intend to keep my vinyl until I die. But I think this vinyl explosion is almost over. I think within five years the prices will bottom out, the racks will be full with things nobody wants at far lower prices than today, and eventually the only places you'll see vinyl will be antique stores, garage sales, and flea markets. I was in the business a long time, and I can see these trends coming and going, and I'm certain I'm right on this one. I was ahead of the curve by at least two years when it began. I was working in a shop that no longer had vinyl, and I convinced the owner to start carrying it. It took a few months to catch fire, but when it did, it was a real traffic builder. But prices, and a glut of novelty pressings are killing it.

[@MelindaMurphy]

I understand why you have stopped buying records. I do hope you're wrong about vinyl bottoming out. The market will most likely be smaller but there will always be vinyl collectors. At least I hope so. Thank you and take care. ♥️🤗

[@curtissimpkins]

Again I'm now into cds don't have the money and the room for lps anymore and I can't afford a record player anymore too great video my friend

[@MelindaMurphy]

It is a tough decision. It's an expensive hobby for sure. I understand! ♥️🤗 Thank you and take care.

[@heytigerfists]

I have a handful of records as artifacts of my gradeschool/middle school collection (high school was given over to cassettes), and have them framed on my wall. But I have simply never stopped buying CDs. I bought digital files for a while, but then realized I was basically buying air when I could buy the CD instead and make my own digital files. I love records. My dad had a store at the mall and when I was a kid I would go into the record store and flip through every single record, looking at the art and wondering what the music was like. I could easily have gotten hooked by vinyl collecting, but it just never happened. I am very happy with compact discs.

[@TrevorFiford-d6g]

I Have had my original Elvis Presley record since I was 12 years old. I'm now 65. Since 2013 I have been buying other albums on Vinyl but cost has made it difficult to carry on buying. I also have digital versions of my records. I have decided to only download (which I can get for free) any album I want. Which makes better sense. Having said that I will NEVER get rid of my vinyl records I have.

[@livinaftermidnight9651]

I personally have gotten more discriminating on which albums I buy anymore.

[@wilseph1]

Certainly a prudent approach once space and/or storage becomes scarce.

[@samh488]

I’m starting to get in to casettes more, but I still love vinyl and listen to it all the time

[@ibuprofen303]

Cassettes add a very interesting saturation to the sound. Don't forget your pencil for emergencies! I grew up on cassettes. I used to nick all my friend's albums by recording them on to cassette.

[@vikingbrace]

Everything goes in cycles I suppose. From a practical standpoint, it makes no sense for me to continue to buy records. But I’ve never been accused of having much sense, so for now I continue to buy vinyl and some cds. Another great job of holding the viewers interest with a thought out topic. Have a great week!

[@MelindaMurphy]

Same here. It's definitely not a practical hobby but I have never been extremely practical. Lol. Thank you so much. Happy Halloween. 🎃👻

[@DIYerGuy]

I'm not a youngster anymore and I invested in what is considered hi-end audio gear over time which I still have and maintain. I originally started with vinyl when I was in my teens and then around 2010 I started with CDs. However, I did not sell or giveaway my limited vinyl collection of a few hundred LPs which are mostly classical music. There are a few reasons vinyl is more expensive nowadays than CDs. CDs have been the predominant media for music releases across all genres for some time. CD pressing and manufacturing are well established so there's no tooling cost to get back in the form of higher prices. Today there are few vinyl houses compared to what were there in the 60s, 70s, etc. and when CDs became the norm vinyl houses basically closed down and their equipment went up for auction or was junked. So, it's partly a matter of supply and demand. In addition, let's not forget the greed factor. Whenever something becomes popular, as vinyl has, it becomes a premium commodity with a high price tag. Of course, COVID didn't help. I'm getting back into vinyl and in the process of getting a really hi quality phono cartridge and look forward to rediscovering my vinyl collection. As for poorer quality modern vinyl I can't comment since I haven't purchased a modern vinyl LP in I can't remember how long... at least 30 years! But modern vinyl is not really analog; There is digital in the production chain so that may have something to do with the lack of quality? I wouldn't sell your vinyl collection at this point because you may want to get back into it and as one commentor said they couldn't find one or more equivalent titles in CDs. And if you have a turntable that has a USB output you can digitize your vinyl to preserve them. Enjoy.

[@theglavine]

Great post. Interesting how the most informative posts often seem to go unnoticed.

[@DIYerGuy]

Thank you!

[@MelindaMurphy]

It's wonderful that you're rediscovering your love for vinyl and that you're investing in such high quality equipment! ♥️🤗 Thank you and take care.

[@windyhillbomber]

The truth is many people rushed to restore their collection over the last 10 years and so now many have achieved that initial goal and the buying rate has slowed. The issue is will collectors by contemporary music on vinyl or like me, buy legacy acts only

[@MelindaMurphy]

Excellent point. That's where I am in collecting. I have a lot of what I was wanting and now my purchases have slowed down. I'm sure that's where a lot of people are in their collecting..Thank you and take care. 🤗♥️

[@williamsmith8689]

I don't see CD sales increasing. The major issue with vinyl is Price Price Price and I'm not talking about health insurance.

[@patriciablyler6484]

One thing I have noticed in all the years of buying and listening to music. Record companies and artists have a tendency to re-record their music and now I find a lot of the songs I grew up listening to don't sound the same when I stream them. So I'm so glad I held on to the physical copy because that's the only way to hear the original version. I'm not buying too much new music now because the prices are very high but the prices on used records are high too. I don't think there'll ever come a time when I will sell my collection. I am definitely a record hoarder!

[@analoguecity3454]

That's fantastic, me too!😊😊

[@MelindaMurphy]

I get it. It's great to hear a song exactly how we remember it. ♥️ I guess I fit into the hoarder category as well. I can't see me letting go of my records. Thank you and take care. ♥️🤗

[@steverogers2603]

I went to a used vinyl store yesterday. The older 70’s rock albums that interested me were not in good enough condition to justify the high prices.

[@Gadams6669]

My biggest issue with new vinyl has been extremely poor quality control. Records coming right out of the sleeve with scratches, sounding like the stamper has been worn out...Legacy label has been the absolute worst to the point that I now avoid nearly everything from them. On top of that, I've kind of reached a point where I've acquired well past what I've always wanted and there's just not much left to covet.

[@MelindaMurphy]

Quality control does need to improve at some plants while others are doing a fantastic job. Thank you and take care. 🤗♥️

[@FlipSideCT]

Hi Melinda, nice post! I am not much of a new(er) music (past 20 years) buyer. The Vinyl boom is now caught up to the negative twist, and has come to the Pants are getting to tight. A real joke I see is with owning a colored/splattered vinyl as a collectible, this has/is damaged the industry. Newer and older collectors are squinting at vinyl prices now. (like us) Been the past 2 years cutting way back much for your reasons. Yes, getting the $1-$2 CD's now. But, Ones I do not care to own a vinyl of and blind buys are more feaible. I love my PUNK collection (75-82) ! But, I am not listening to them, or share or show my albums with others. They are great to look at, but, I am looking to unload. I ask myself, will I miss it a year from now. Answer is NO. As I age now, I rather now buy some necessities I always wanted, and other objects that will produce more stimulation for me to look at and or actually use. I will surely keep the majority of the collection because of the reason we love vinyl. I think if I was 20 years younger, I would still keep the PUNK. My kids want nothing to do with it either. And yes, maybe I can buy the used Harry Styles for the wife though. Be well !! cheers Steve

[@MelindaMurphy]

Inflation has definitely hurt a lot of people who would normally still buy vinyl. They are now digging through used CDs. They still have fun and the CDs are cheap. I hope the situation changes so that we all have a little more money in our pocket. A lot of collectors would love to dig through your punk collection. Lol. The only records my daughter has any interest in are jazz. She plans to keep all of my jazz records when I'm gone. It's great to hear from you. Take care. 🤗♥️

[@moogoomoogoo5990]

Some of my slowdown is related to lack of inventory- either old records reasonably priced, or new releases. I don’t have interest in many of the new releases or artists.

[@MelindaMurphy]

I don't buy a lot of brand new music either. I love the classics. Thank you and take care. 🤗♥️

[@shellyhe]

Melinda, you said it yourself - buying a great reissue vinyl record of a classic artist brings you back to your childhood. But as we age, our descedants will not obtain the feelings of vinyl when that's what the best medium of the time. Young folks, especially the computer nerds of today are mesmerized by the mass streaming of music around them. Also you said, the children and young adults today (who are not nerds) will not be able to pay $35 - $40 a pop for either new artists or reissues of classic artists. I grew up a music lover in the 1960's and 1970's and bought many records at reasonable prices; I love the nostalgia, vinyl notes and covers of those days and treasure everything I own to this day. But I also know that digital music (CD's, digital tape masters and streaming) sound better (although folks would disagree with me about the "analog sound"). Just about all vinyl records since 1980 come from a digital master and there is no way an analog recording can sound better than the master its made from. I give it about 5 more years before new vinyl recordings and the industry will severely die down. There are other reasons for this: Crosley turntables are not going to reproduce the sound for proper enjoyment. Audiophile equipment such as new turntables and cartridges are getting very expensive and will no longer compete with CD's or streaming. I am sorry for this outlook, but that's part of our current living atmosphere in the 21st century.

[@MelindaMurphy]

It's sad but I think you're right. The younger generations will never have the same feelings for records that we have. That's understandable. Hopefully, vinyl will continue for a while. I need to try to catch up on jazz releases. That is one part of my collection that my daughter wants to keep. Thank you and take care. 🤗♥️

[@audiophileman7047]

You covered this topic really well, Melinda. I really don't have much to add but to affirm a resurging interest in CD's. I know people who prefer CD's; they don't want to deal with maintenance issues associated with vinyl. As I get ready to move, I really thought about whether or not I should hold on to my CD collection or maybe pare it down a bit. I have every CD that I've ever bought dating back to the '80's. I decided to hold on to them. I have a lot of great music on CD and some of it isn't available on vinyl and may never be available on vinyl. Guitar amps are what are getting my attention these days. Once I get settled in my future home, I plan to hit the guitar hot and heavy. I'm too busy to focus on it right now.

[@MelindaMurphy]

I understand. Moving takes all your time and energy. Hopefully, you will be able to pick up that guitar again soon. When in doubt, always hang on to something. It's probably smart to hang on to your CDs, especially the ones that aren't available in other formats such as vinyl. Best wishes with your future move. 🤗♥️ Thank you and take care.

[@audiophileman7047]

@@MelindaMurphy Sure, you're welcome and thank you for the well wishes. 👍💖🎸😎

[@bfiske88]

I am searching for classic country and late 50, early 60s motown and rock n roll. Also the new David Gillmore record is GOLD!

[@MelindaMurphy]

That's a great era of music! I need to check out that new Gilmore release. Thank you and take care. ♥️🤗

[@ThaiThom]

The music business has always been complete BS.

[@robertmcdougall3166]

Melinda, I am in the UK selling my old original vinyl from Rock and Metal bands from the 70s to late 90s and getting decent (not great) prices. Could there be another reason for the dip in sales and that is quality? Record companies are re-releasing albums on vinyl, the trouble is that they are mastered from compressed digital sources and not the original analogue ones. I heard on a large number of UK youtube channels that some sound dire. So keeping an open mind I listened to three and they are right the sound is on many flat and dead and no better than listening to the same album on CD.

[@MelindaMurphy]

That's a great point. Some releases just aren't very good. I have certain music labels that I order from with confidence but that can't be done with every music label. No doubt, the bad ones hurt the vinyl industry. Thank you and take care. 🤗♥️

[@RobotronR6]

The stock market is high, but the public is tanked. EVERYTHING IS EXPENSIVE.

[@MelindaMurphy]

Exactly! People no longer have as much extra money. Thank you and enjoy your weekend. ♥️🤗

[@thomascoleman9593]

I enjoyed watching your video and I think in general some of the points are accurate...I have been in the record store business for 43 years and have owned 5 stores and, yes, new vinyl sales are down and 25 to 30% is probably not out of line. That said, overall, vinyl sales are not down. Anyone who has been in this business for any length of time knows that (a) the profit margin in selling new vinyl is not enough to sustain a business and that's why you never see stores that sell just new vinyl (think record bar, Sam Goody's, Peaches,etc.) - the only way to make money (and btw you will never get rich in this business, it's a labor of love) is by properly buying quality pre-owned and knowing how to properly curate. The last part is very important and, imo, only comes with years of experience. When I started my first store in 1981 it was all vinyl and tapes...slowly through the 80s CDs took over the NEW market and the labels basically phased out vinyl...people were dumping large collections and proclaiming vinyl dead...those in the know took full advantage and bought tons of quality stuff for pennies. The reasons were two-fold, (a) we knew serious collectors would always prefer vinyl (that remains true not only in the U.S but even more so around the world) and, (b) eventually vinyl would regain popularity (although no one, including me, foresaw the massive resurgence that started in the past 10 years). I credit Taylor Swift and many parents and grandparents for introducing their kids to the world of vinyl. So, the last part is where does it go from here? Vinyl sales will level off and, you are correct, used CD sales will increase...and so what have those in the know been doing these past 5 years or so?...buying and curating quality used CDs. Thank you for your video and your insights. Tom Coleman Downtown Records & CD Exchange Hot Springs, Arkansas

[@anthonyvigliotti6560]

Nice job on the video. Good subject. I am a long-time collector. I was thrilled when vinyl made a comeback several years ago. However, I've become very disheartened by what the industry has done. Playing games with consumers and price gouging has turned me off over the last 2 years.

[@MelindaMurphy]

Yep, everyone is complaining about the pricing. People can no longer afford to buy records. Such a shame. Thank you and take care. 🤗♥️

[@anthonyvigliotti6560]

@MelindaMurphy Thank you. You too.

[@richardrigg9916]

NAAH! I'm just getting re-started! I am in the process of restoring my (long lost and newly returned) SOTA Star Sapphire Series III vacuum platter. It came with a Sumiko Premier FT3 tonearm and I was able to find one in pristine shape ( tonearm was missing ) The turntable originally cost me $3700 in 1986/87. It was damaged and I brought it to a local audio shop for repair. When I returned to pick it up they said they didn't have it. 20 years later I contacted the shop with new owners. I was in the process of restoring another turntable and I brought it to them to set up the tonearm and check the electronics of the 50 year old Denon DP-3000. I told the new owners about what happened and he said... " We have a SOTA in the back. Describe it to me..." minutes later he brought it out! Everything worked but it needed updating. SOTA offers restoration services and I am in the process of restoring the SOTA. To save money and shipping damage, I am finishing the project myself! Wish me luck! The upgrades and repairs are $2300.00 I'll be dusting off 1k vinyl albums next!

[@MelindaMurphy]

Wow! What a great story, and what a find! That's amazing. Thank you for sharing. That's absolutely amazing. Have a wonderful weekend. ♥️🤗

[@goplad1]

Obviously you can afford to indulge in all that but many young up and coming record collectors can't afford those elaborate sound systems or even new vinyl. Consider yourself fortunate.

[@ballsyrocker]

I was in a high end audiophile store in small town Georgia decades ago and just mentioned I favored Marantz and Pioneer stereo systems to the owner and he went into a rage . I swear he became rabid with his spitting. I realized that I was glad I didn't have to deal with him. To hell with high end audiophile. 🤣

[@sandyfader4649]

For me, I would say my current purchase percentage is 20% brand new releases like Amyl and the Sniffers or new Linkin Park, and 80% either new pressings of classic albums I’ve missed,or just a new replacement of an album I already own but has issues that would benefit from a replacement purchase in better condition. So, since I do already own a large number of classic rock albums in VG+ condition, which I listen to often, my need to purchase vinyl seems to get less and less each year. I do buy special things like Rhino hi fi releases,or Beatles mono set or MOFI Santana but overall the number of my purchases has decreased. I guess my “must have” purchases are less common as I review my collection and what I already have. Pretty satisfied with what I’ve got. Thanks Melinda.

[@MelindaMurphy]

I'm with you. We have been buying a lot for the same records. 😃 Thank you and take care.

[@joshwilliams7692]

I would be surprised if the sales weren't down more than 30%. The pandemic surge was an anomaly. People flocked to more tangible things in that time. Lego prices went absolutely bananas during that time. We're finally seeing that market cool off. A lot of people are dumping the collections they acquired during that time. People don't have as much time or money as they did a few years ago.

[@MelindaMurphy]

Things did get a little crazy. It's normal for some people to drop a hobby after a little while especially with inflation as it is. Thank you and take care. ♥️🤗

[@anthonyw5261]

I've noticed the new pressings are thicker than the time of the vinyl decline and they sound a bit better. Willie Nelson's greatest hits is good example in my opinion. Great video. Some great points here.

[@themotownboy1]

The price is too high, especially for the less than acceptable quality of the majority of pressings. Also, the “Analog Mystique” is being seen for what it is. It is really only done properly with a substantial $$$ investment in good equipment.

[@prestonmartin2024]

As a single 26 year old man. No kids. No wife. I recently just started getting into vinyl. All I had was CD’s growing up and I still listen to them and love them. This vinyl hobby is pretty expensive these days but I believe it’s worth it. I’m learning more and more about it everyday. My setup is still a work in progress but soon it’s gonna be great. It’s exciting upgrading everything and cleaning your records and just the whole thing is very satisfying to me. I could say a lot more but I don’t wanna make a long ass comment here

[@MelindaMurphy]

It’s great to see someone so passionate about vinyl. I hope you enjoy this as much as I have. It sounds like you are off to a very strong start. Thank you and have a great weekend. ♥️😃

[@prestonmartin2024]

@@MelindaMurphy thank you very much Melinda. You do the same

[@dimebagdave77]

Always remember that anything thats old hat now will be a top shelf collectors item down the road 😂

[@MelindaMurphy]

That is sometimes true. It's always what you don't think is going to be a collectible that becomes a collectible. I wish I had left all of my Star Wars figures in their original boxes. 😃 Thank you and take care.

[@TheGoldenAgeofHardRock]

I say this as satire, Melinda, because I'm a CD collector. Used CD prices are through the roof, it's now $5 for pristine, no scratch, played once, mint CD's, this can't continue 🤣

[@patbarr1351]

Yes & there are so many interesting things that only digital offers. I just got the new Tears for Fears on bluray in surround & ordered a Japanese Wings *Venus and Mars* CD with deluxe packaging (full color sleeve plus lyrics & poster) for $26 including shipping.

[@MelindaMurphy]

Lol. I get it. They used to be even cheaper. They are the true bargain. Thank you and take care. 🤗♥️

[@LowNoiseJasonSkilz]

At 8,000 + records Im ok if prices go up now. I have everything pretty much. Some new releases / new bands I just buy CD copy. If uts good enough I will buy the vinyl.

[@JamBurglar]

This is why I started buying tons of vinyl back in the 90s. It was super cheap! Then I started buying tapes. Now its CDs. Haha.

[@dynjarren8355]

(Slow Blues)The Thrill is gone! Gone away from me! The Thrill is Gone! They’ll be Sorry some Day! 😖😢

[@escaryromano]

I was a vinyl collector from 2003-2010, it was great but 2 things - 1: they take up room & 2: having over 2000 titles (when moving houses) is a nightmare because they’re heavy to carry them… I ended up selling 95% of my vinyl collection in 2010! Been a CD collector for over 25 years now & have over 1600 titles… I still play CDs everyday in my car or home stereo… I jump from artist to band to compilations, or genres - depending on the mood that I’m feeling… One week I would play Jamiroquai, the next week I would play The Roots, then possibly Korn the week after… I do go through weird phases listening different genres/bands but it’s always great listening to my CDs, no matter on what mood that I’m in! My prediction is that vinyls will eventually die down because it’s becoming too expensive, especially the transparent or Record Day vinyls… A double LP used to cost me $35-$50, now it’s $75-$110, it’s insane (and today’s prices would only be one vinyl, which makes it worse)… Also, constantly cleaning the vinyl & keeping the album cover in great condition without any wear, scruff & tear is a nightmare to maintain! CD will make a huge comeback in the future, let’s hope it doesn’t get too expensive like vinyl!!!

[@southernpimp5252]

I feel the “fad” amongst the youth [I’m 26] is beginning to fade. Only ‘core listeners and audiophiles remain. - Peace, from Alton, IL. 🤙🏾

[@Stinger_tbx]

I never saw the excitement of collecting new Target & or Wal mart brand new records. And cringe seeing anyone using a Crosley player. My 18,000+ collection is like 80% original Rock & Roll & 20% other most all are in Excellent to Minty condition. I, for one, love the fact that the bulk of my over 18,000 records may still hold incredible value ! I'm 64 years old and will probably start selling my whole collection at some point soon. The only new record I've bought at Target last may is Billie Eilish " HIT ME HARD AND SOFT"..... It's unbelievable ! (AOTY) Thanks for the information 👍

[@rayking9781]

18,000? How many of those haven't you listened to?

[@MelindaMurphy]

Wow! That's a music library. ♥️ The originals and early pressings will always be in demand. Your collection is no doubt very valuable when the time comes to let some records go. I have Billie's first album and the sound quality is fantastic. Thank you and take care. ♥️🤗

[@tracerx6324]

Here in Germany we had 3 forms of listening to music: Vinyl, Cassette or Radio. We had little to no information about the artist or band. Only through weekly or monthly magazines you could read a little article about the musicians. We only could listen to music what the record store had in stock or what friends had in their collection. So you spend a certain amount of time to listen to the vinyls you have in your own collection. Younger people of today have a ton of outputs to listen to music, the world of media is huge. You have access to every single piece of music artists made throughout their career. You know how they live, you know their style, you know, what they eat or drink and so on. It's somewhat oversaturated nowadays, it quickly becomes boring. And todays youth is very fast at boredom. This summer I decided to buy the "not so famous" records of the old stars, for example "Fantasy" by Carole King or most of "The Commodores" records. All really fantastic music and they cost about 5 or 10 Euros. I have the feeling, I missed sooo much from the 70s, I could spend a lot of time to listen to that era. Yes sometimes I still buy a record that cost about 40 Euros (it's quite the same as in Dollars), but it should be a record, I know. So my collection is growing with 80% original cheap and less famous records of stars and 20% new vinyls. And I still buy CDs...often when the original and the new vinyl is way too expensive. P.S.: Happy Halloween! 👻

[@MelindaMurphy]

I agree. There are still some great albums out there like that Carole King one that isn't expensive. I do think that younger people that are always on their phones might lose interest in this hobby due to just having to sit back and listen to an entire album. That's just not how they grew up. Thank you and have a great weekend. ♥️😃

[@franksherman1774]

You DID miss so much from the 70's...we ALL did! That's because there was too much great music from that era, including the 60's. I'm loving listening to old music that is NEW to ME!

[@tracerx6324]

@@franksherman1774 Yes indeed, that's where the good things start with a streaming platform. I'm using TIDAL to find good great old music, then I give it a short listen, and after that, I'm checking online secondhand recordstores for the vinyls because sadly the real stores are too far away from my home. Is it cheap and VG+ or EX condition I will buy it. Is it too expensive, I record the album from TIDAL direct to tape with a cassette deck, just like the old times. 😁

[@kennyburck7924]

Vinyl is awesome, playing it like I did in the 80’s

[@rauldiaz7309]

Great video. Record collector here since the age of 11 and now 52 -mostly dance oriented music of the 80s and 90s -those turntable mixing days. But I have always been a Rock & Soul lover also. I have slowed down in my purchase of records maybe because I just don't want to hoard so much as I age. I never got into the Record Store Day hype. I prefer just diggin' on an off day. Cheers!

[@MelindaMurphy]

Digging is definitely the most fun. ♥️ I'm with you, each purchase is now meaningful. I don't buy just for the sake of buying. Thank you and take care. ♥️🤗

[@djgreenhornet2892]

Ordering vinyl online is expensive too. The shipping and handling prices can stop people from buying vinyl.

[@MelindaMurphy]

Agreed. The shipping and taxes make some records around $50. That's a lot for one LP. Thank you and take care. 🤗♥️

[@mattsrecordcollection]

When it comes to records, I'm ride-or-die (I'm 59). I was at my favorite used record store, Albatross records in Florence Oregon, and I came across Taylor Swift, and coincidentally, Adele and Harry Styles. I will always have records; I'm heavily invested in the vinyl as well as my system. Bottom line, I think the core vinyl buyer will always be there and fad buyers will come and go. There's a funny meme, "I got into vinyl for the expense and inconvenience" Great video!

[@MelindaMurphy]

Lol. That's so funny and true. 😄 I agree that vinyl isn't going anywhere. Thank you and take care. 😄♥️

[@robbiedetroitstigermanviny8883]

Unfortunately the economy is bad and some folks are selling records to make ends meet is one reason and yes the younger folks are turning in their chips. I think Our Generation is still all in. Great Video! I don't buy reissues so I don't contribute to new sales.

[@glenncurry3041]

Which economy? Wages are up over cost of goods for the first time in decades. Unemployment at record lows. Stocks skyrocketing. Interest rates dropping, US inflation the lowest in industrialized nations..... The economy of the working class US population has not been this strong since Reagan!

[@robbiedetroitstigermanviny8883]

@@glenncurry3041 not where I live

[@glenncurry3041]

​@@robbiedetroitstigermanviny8883 So you don't live in the USA! Too bad! That's the economy here.

[@robbiedetroitstigermanviny8883]

@@glenncurry3041 Hey man, I'm a retired U.S. Army Combat Infantry Soldier with 2 and a half years in the middle east. I graduated in 1984 and joined The Army because Reagan with his trickle down economics had the country in a recession. I don't know what rock you live under but don't talk down to me. I'm paying $4 for a dozen eggs so no the economy sucks.

[@MelindaMurphy]

The vintage records like you buy will always be in demand even though that's probably not why you buy them. ♥️ The economy is bad and inflation is what's really hurting people the most. Let's hope it's a temporary situation that will get better. Thank you and take care. ♥️🤗

[@melsrecords-bq3di]

I’ve owned a small record shop in Northern Massachusetts for 3+ years. This conversation about young people abandoning vinyl is 100 percent correct. The fad is over. It was cool for 5 minutes with them and now it’s done. The last few months we are definitely seeing a slowdown in sales. First half of the year was great, but last few months have really stunk. We had great growth year over year our first three years. This year I’ll be happy if we can break even with last year. Prices for new records in many cases are way too high, but it’s not the fault of the record shop. We hardly make any profit on new records. We’ve definitely reached peak vinyl. I just hope it doesn’t cool down too quickly.

[@MelindaMurphy]

I agree. The price of records aren't the fault of the record stores. You have very little mark up on new records. I'm sorry to hear what you're saying and I hope things turn around for the holidays and beyond. Thank you and best wishes. Take care. 🤗♥️

[@keithwilson6674]

I've owned a shop for 6 years and you're spot on. I've cut my new vinyl orders by 70-80%. Prices are high and the margins suck. Spend $35 to make $40. IF IT SELLS. All risk and no reward. I speak with 5 or 6 other Record Shop owners frequently and they all say the same thing. Fewer young buyers. New vinyl sales down 30-40% since last RSD. Lots of collections coming in from the Covid years. The bubble has popped. The only question now is how low will sales go. The truly frightening thing as an owner is we still haven't seen a true recession during the entire resurgence. That's when you'll see Record Stores closing en masse. Sadly it's just a matter of time.

[@tomasvydra6418]

I am a record collector and a radio DJ for the last 39 years my show is only records no other music medea. And what I see is that Acually the younger generation is very active in asking questions about vinyl. I feel vinyl will stay here for long

[@MelindaMurphy]

That's great to hear. Thank you and take care. ♥️🤗

[@soulproprietor]

I'm a 55 year old music collector. I work in public education with high school students and have had a front row seat of how modern young people take music into their lives in the streaming era. They don't get the cultural context or connections an older music fan gets from physical media and reading liner notes. They just have multiple playlists of music they currently love. I am VERY wary of older people comparing their youths to how young people live today. Everything is different, the culture, the technology, the economy, the media landscape. Your experience is yours, theirs is theirs. If I do compare, however, I can say on the positive side, that kids are open to a much wider selection of artists and genres than most people in my youth ever were. When you think of fans of rockabilly, punk, disco, hippie rock, metal, goth, post punk, hip-hop, you can also picture kids from each of the eras these genres were new and what they acted / danced / dressed like. Today's kids are just way less likely to define themselves by the music they love. There's simply nothing wrong with that. Just last week, during art class, it was my turn to have control of the classroom bluetooth speaker. I played the kids "Good Morning Captain" by Slint. One kid was absolutely floored and immediately added it one of their playlists. They didn't know about post-rock genre, or the very interesting story of the very interesting people in this very interesting band...they just liked the music. And they're not very likely to buy it on any physical media. Times change, world turns... I'm not getting rid of my records, simply because I play them every day and they bring me joy.

[@veteq101]

The prices are just insane. I just checked my discogs; I used to buy around 30-to-50 records per year until the price increase in 2023. in 2023 I bought a total of 14 records and this year I bought 3 records. I bought a better DAC and digital it is.

[@MelindaMurphy]

I completely understand. I think a lot of people are feeling the same way. Inflation has been really hard on so many people. Thank you and take care. ♥️🤗

[@marcodarco398]

A very similar story for me. I’ve become super selective and no longer jump in until I’ve read reviews regarding pressing quality etc. So many new pressings are substandard.

[@jonathanlake6053]

@@marcodarco398 Exactly the same for me.

[@Fenisulven]

Same here. But i was lucky to get nearly all i wanted years ago

[@patricklear3711]

I think the right people are walking away from vinyl collecting. Those that truly enjoy the music and platform will stick around.

[@wilseph1]

Yep. Definitely requires long term dedication. Not an activity that can be switched on and off.

[@MelindaMurphy]

I agree. Most of us are due harsa and this will be a lifelong hobby. ♥️ Thank you and take care.

[@Dub-ro9tk]

Totally disagree. People who got hosed by the free money project are now broke, and have no choice but to walk away.

[@ENGLISHISBEST]

Sorry not a well thought out comment. I have had my own vinyl since my first vinyl album bought in 1974 & didn't take a massive slice into my wages, Today with more money spent on upgrading my system with turntable after many configurations I will not & refuse to buy this new overpriced plastic vinyl, I have to hunt around in old second hand record stores. These new Vinyl makers are gonna go bust. I am & have always been the right type of person. What a silly comment that was. P.S. You can't spell "Die Hard" either & you can't get much more die hard than 50 years of that format from myself.

[@Cruel_Shoes]

I’m 68 years old. And I was an audiophile in the 80s in the 90s and the early 2000s. Let me tell you some problems with vinyl. That warm sound you crave it’s just simply Lofi. You want something more than what was mastered? Get a CD. And they had all kinds of gimmicks to get rid of the cracks and pops. They’re inherent in vinyl. Oh and let’s not forget Keith monks record cleaning system for approximately $800 in the 1980s. Vinyl is a joke. Let’s not forget that vinyl is very weather sensitive. I was accidentally left a record on my dash that I had just bought. I was lucky that they exchanged it. But try that with the CD and nothing happens. They’re more durable. Last. We used to get any album unless it was a double album for $4.95 in town warehouse in Dallas, Texas throughout the 1980s.

[@chrisgraham847]

I've been adding a few CD's to my collection recently because I've given up on finding vinyl copies of some albums that were released in the early nineties when most record companies were phasing out their vinyl production runs in favor of CD's.

[@rotallyPumpered]

I got into buying records in the late 2000s, and I kind of saved those purchases for my favourite albums. At this point, there isn't much left to buy that I'm all that passionate about, and the prices are far too high at this point for me to casually buy an album just to check it out. I'll still pick up new releases from a favourite artist, but those are rare at this point. I think I've only bought around three or four records this year.

[@davidellis5141]

Hi Melinda 🌞 - Us Cure fans will be out in force on Friday to buy Songs Of A Lost World on Friday & we won't be trading it in come December. Happy Halloween 🎃

[@MelindaMurphy]

That's great news. There has been a desire for The Cure albums (not picture discs) on vinyl for a long time. I hope it's a great new album. Now hopefully they will do more of their older albums on vinyl. Thank you and Happy Halloween! 🎃♥️

[@kawasakiaddiction6296]

Poor Audio production, prices doubling in 5 years, and mostly warped when bought online. That's why.

[@MelindaMurphy]

In a lot of cases, you are correct. The quality control issues are turning people off. Thank you and enjoy your weekend. ♥️🤗

[@thatusernameinuse]

i check the discog release page for comments for new presses now, because so many represses are coming out with factory defects that just are not worth gambling on the quality control. There's quite a few records on my wishlist i just wait and hope they repress with better QC/ mastering

[@kawasakiaddiction6296]

@@thatusernameinuse I had to return a new issue of Dark side of the Moon 4 times to a Record shop, all having different faults. I gave up.

[@deanokay666]

I suspect there’s realisation that new vinyl isn’t analogue. It’s a digital recording which is mastered digitally, and then sold on an expensive, fragile format just to make the record company and artist more money… they’ve been sussed.

[@Mark-j5h2b]

Lol, wrong.

[@MelindaMurphy]

Some new releases are analog and some aren't. Most analog records will advertise it as such knowing that vinyl collectors seek them out. Thank you and take care. 🤗♥️

[@deanokay666]

@ even MOFI converts to DSD during the mastering process. New vinyl is a con. I only buy used vinyl released pre 1985. Dire Straits, Brothers in Arms was the first album recorded digitally specifically for CD. All other albums followed soon after. I buy the album on the format it was originally recorded and mastered on. ☺️

[@fritzy8178]

I'm a 53-year-old who revived my old turntable and record collection at the end of 2019. This started because of a local record shop had opened up. I now have more records than I ever had in my lifetime. In my area where I live I have about eight record shops that I can shop at as well as thrift and antique shops. I also like purchasing online as well. I have a music room with all my vinyl on display, alphabetized and categorized by genre. I've slowed down on purchasing vinyl because I'm enjoying what I already have.... Then I sift out what I'm not really listening to. Take them down to a shop, trade them in, get a little money. That way I have more room for more vinyl.... Then I buy what I really want. 6 months or so I'll do it all again

[@realmsofmetal75]

I run a record distro and it’s not cheap to buy and stock vinyl right now. That said, vinyl outsells cd’s and cassettes by a long shot, at least for my site. I try to keep the prices as low as I can!

[@GrahamDyson-h9z]

Rubbish ! Vinyl has never, nor will ever die. The Used Record market, together with 'DJ/Scratch Meisters', has kept it going as a format through 'thick & thin' & will continue to do so. Don't buy any of these current 'heavy vinyl' re-issues, they have nowhere near the fidelity of original/1st presses.......Just keep 'digging those crates'.....!

[@catsofsherman1316]

You are way more generous to Crosley than I am. I bought one around 10 years ago and it was so bad it nearly stopped my vinyl renaissance before it started.

[@MelindaMurphy]

I am careful about what I say because I don't want to discourage or turn off new collectors. You are absolutely right though. And if others don't make the leap to a better turntable, eventually they will drop out of this hobby. Thank you and take care. 🤗♥️