Records: Discover The Basics & Start Collecting

The world of records is a vast and fascinating realm, filled with a wide range of genres, formats, and collecting opportunities. For those just starting out, the prospect of diving into record collecting can seem daunting, but with a solid understanding of the basics, anyone can begin their journey and start building a collection that reflects their unique tastes and interests.

At its core, a record is a physical medium for storing and playing back music, typically made of vinyl and played on a turntable. The history of records dates back to the late 19th century, with the first vinyl records emerging in the early 20th century. Since then, records have undergone numerous transformations, from the introduction of new formats like compact discs (CDs) and digital music, to the resurgence of vinyl in recent years.

For newcomers to record collecting, one of the most important things to understand is the different types of records that are available. The most common types include:

• LPs (Long-Play records): These are the standard 12-inch records that most people think of when they hear the term “record.” LPs typically contain between 20-30 minutes of music per side and are widely available in a range of genres.
• EPs (Extended-Play records): These are smaller than LPs, typically 7-10 inches in diameter, and contain fewer tracks. EPs are often used by artists to release new music between full-length albums or as a way to provide a sneak peek into upcoming projects.
• Singles: These are individual tracks released on a 7-inch record, often featuring a main song on the A-side and a B-side track. Singles can be a great way for collectors to snag rare or hard-to-find tracks.
• Box Sets: These are comprehensive collections of an artist’s work, often featuring multiple LPs, CDs, or other formats, along with liner notes, photos, and other memorabilia. Box sets can be a significant investment, but they offer a unique and immersive listening experience.

In addition to understanding the different types of records, it’s also essential to familiarize yourself with the various formats and conditions that records can come in. Some common terms to know include:

• Vinyl condition: This refers to the physical state of the record, with conditions ranging from “mint” (perfect) to “poor” (damaged or worn).
• Grading: This is a system used to evaluate the condition of a record, with grades ranging from “M” (mint) to “P” (poor).
• Reissue: This refers to a record that has been re-released at a later date, often with updated packaging or remastered audio.
• Rare: This term refers to records that are difficult to find or highly sought after by collectors.

For those looking to start their record collection, there are several ways to get started. Some popular options include:

• Thrift stores and charity shops: These can be great places to find hidden gems and rare records at affordable prices.
• Record stores: Specialized record stores often carry a wide selection of new and used records, and staff may be knowledgeable about the inventory and able to offer recommendations.
• Online marketplaces: Websites like Discogs, eBay, and Amazon offer a vast selection of records, often with user reviews and ratings to help guide purchasing decisions.
• Garage sales and estate sales: These can be a great way to find rare or vintage records at discounted prices.

When purchasing records, it’s essential to inspect the condition carefully and research the market value to ensure you’re getting a fair deal. Some things to look out for include:

• Surface noise: This refers to the crackling or hissing sounds that can be heard when playing a record.
• Warps: These are bends or curves in the record that can affect playback.
• Scratches: These can cause skips or jumps during playback.

Despite the potential pitfalls, record collecting can be a highly rewarding hobby, offering a unique way to engage with music and connect with like-minded individuals. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or just starting out, the world of records has something to offer everyone.

In addition to the basics of record collecting, it’s also important to understand the cultural and historical context of records. From the early days of jazz and blues to the rise of punk and hip-hop, records have played a significant role in shaping the course of music history.

As you begin your record collecting journey, remember that the most important thing is to have fun and enjoy the music. With a little patience and knowledge, you can build a collection that reflects your unique tastes and interests, and provides a lifetime of listening pleasure.

By following these guidelines and tips, you’ll be well on your way to becoming a seasoned record collector, with a deep understanding of the basics and a growing collection of music that reflects your unique tastes and interests. Happy collecting!