Everything You Need To Know About Collecting Vinyl in 2025
They say that, “everything sounds better on vinyl,” and if you’re ready to put that theory to the test, there’s no better time to start your collection.
Vinyl records have seen a remarkable resurgence in recent years, with sales steadily climbing since the early 2010s. Once considered a nostalgic relic of the past, vinyl is now firmly back in mainstream music culture. According to the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA), vinyl records accounted for 43% of physical music sales in 2023 – that’s over 5.9 million records sold last year, which marked a 30-year high for the format.
This growth is driven not just by older collectors but also by younger generations, with millennials and Gen Z listeners embracing vinyl for its physicality and rich sound quality. If you’re looking to kickstart your collection in 2025, here’s your essential guide to building, growing, and maintaining a vinyl record collection.
Getting Started: Choosing the Right Turntable
With new LP records costing around £30-£40 each, collecting records is not for the faint-hearted. And with the rising prices, it’s important to make sure you purchase a turntable that won’t scratch or warp your vinyl. As tempting as those stylish suitcase-style players at Urban Outfitters might be, resist the urge—they’re notorious for damaging vinyl. Instead, go for something reliable like the Audio-Technica AT-LP60X. It’s affordable, user-friendly, and designed to protect your collection, not destroy it.
If you’re on a tight budget, check out Facebook Marketplace or local buy/sell/trade groups for secondhand deals.
Protecting Your Collection: Storage Tips
Once you’ve started collecting, proper storage is key to keeping your records in pristine condition. Invest in protective cover sleeves to shield them from dust, moisture, and other also sun damage. Always store vinyl upright, away from windows or direct sunlight – since vinyl is plastic, the heat can easily cause warping or distortion. Treat your records with care, and they’ll last for decades.
Where to Buy: New Pressings vs. Hidden Gems
For new releases, major retailers like HMV or Urban Outfitters stock most mainstream albums and artists. But if you’re after rare finds, collectables, or a wider variety, your local record store is the place to go. Not only will you support small businesses, but the staff often have deep musical knowledge and can help you track down specific records or recommend hidden gems. Plus, local stores usually have stacks of used records – perfect for finding great deals. To locate a store near you, check out RecordStoreDay.co.uk, which features a handy store locator.
Speaking of Record Store Day – it’s the biggest event of the year for vinyl collectors. Held annually, and this year, on an exclusive additional day for Black Friday, it’s a celebration of independent record stores, where artists release limited-edition pressings exclusively for the day. It’s the perfect opportunity to snag unique records while supporting your local shops, so one to keep an eye out for in 2025.
Also, don’t overlook merch tables at gigs! While it can be tricky to keep a record safe during a concert, the payoff can be huge. Many records sold at shows are limited runs, making them highly collectable. For example, I picked up a copy of Coin’s How Will You Know If You Never Try at a concert for just $20. Today, that same record sells for hundreds since it was never mass-produced.
Finding Specific Pressings: Discogs and beyond
If you’re on the hunt for a rare pressing and striking out at local stores, Discogs is your best bet. As the ultimate online platform for cataloguing, buying, and selling vinyl, Discogs lets you search for records worldwide and compare prices across sellers. It’s also a great tool to track your collection’s value or check whether a record you’re eyeing in-store is reasonably priced.
One of the most exciting parts of collecting vinyl is the thrill of the hunt. Don’t shy away from digging through crates at charity shops, flea markets, or even your grandad’s attic – you never know what you might unearth. Sometimes the best records are the ones you weren’t even looking for.
