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Why Do People Buy Vinyl Records? The Appeal Explained
Why people buy vinyl records: the ritual of playing them, album art, sound, collecting, nostalgia, and what to know about value and buying before you start.
Vinyl records
Dig the crates, play it right.
Practical vinyl guides: how records are made, record players, care and storage, 78 RPM records, collecting and what makes a record valuable.
39 in-depth guides 9 topics Oct 2026 latest guide
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Guides to start with
Each one links on to more specific articles in its topic.
Vinyl vs Digital: Which Sounds Better?
Vinyl vs digital compared on sound, dynamic range, noise, mastering, cost and convenience, so you can decide which format suits the way you listen.
Anatomy of a Vinyl Record: Grooves, Label and Spindle Hole
Learn the parts of a vinyl record, from the spiral groove and lead-in to the run-out area, centre label and spindle hole, and what each one does.
Vinyl Record Dimensions and Sizes
Vinyl record dimensions explained: the 7, 10 and 12 inch sizes, typical speeds, centre holes, thickness, and how disc size relates to jacket size.
Sought After Vinyl Records: What Collectors Hunt For
Learn what makes vinyl records sought after, from withdrawn covers and test pressings to first pressings, and how to judge whether your own records might be valuable.
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Vinyl Basics
Collecting basics, vinyl versus other formats, how records are made, sizes and sleeves.
Collecting Basics 3 guides, starting with Why Do People Buy Vinyl Records? The Appeal Explained. 3 guides Vinyl vs Other Formats 5 guides, starting with Vinyl vs Digital: Which Sounds Better?. 5 guides How Records Are Made 6 guides, starting with Anatomy of a Vinyl Record: Grooves, Label and Spindle Hole. 6 guides Record Sizes Sleeves 4 guides, starting with Vinyl Record Dimensions and Sizes. 4 guides
Collecting & Care
Collectible value, record care and storage, and 78 RPM records.
Record Players
Record player basics and troubleshooting.