If there’s one thing we’re staunch supporters of, it’s listening to, collecting, and talking about records – especially given how much better they are than digital music services.
While it’s definitely convenient to be able to access your entire music library at any given time from the confines of your pocket, vinyl offers an entirely different music experience which many would argue to be infinitely superior to any other listening format.
If you’re new to the world of vinyl, read on, come join the vinyl revival and see what the fuss is all about.
“You can be guaranteed that your favourite song will sound at least 50% better on wax”
1. Vinyl sounds really, really good
It’s an age old debate, but it really is true: vinyl sounds way better than digital music files.
There’s a heap of nerdy science behind this argument, so to cut to the chase, vinyl is deemed to be the superior format because it tends to be exactly what the artist themselves want you to hear.
While some digital music files sacrifice quality and sonic nuances in favour of your storage space, vinyl records are cut to perfectly mirror the original studio mix, packing way more of a punch than your standard iTunes file.
When paired with a decent record player and a quality set of speakers, vinyl provides the most organic music experience possible.
You can be guaranteed that your favourite song will sound at least 50% better on wax, and you might even come to appreciate your most loathed song upon hearing it on vinyl. It really is that good.
“let’s face it: nothing looks cooler than walking into somebody’s house and seeing a collection of records”
2. Records also look great
A wise man (possibly Aristotle) once said “You can’t hug an MP3”.
Fast forward a few millennia, and his words still ring true. Perusing the crates of record stores to find your favourite vinyl record and hold it in your hands is one of the most fulfilling feelings ever experienced.
A lot of younger record collectors, most of whom have grown up in the age of digital music, initially become attracted to records through the thrill of physically owning their music collection.
The nostalgic qualities of vinyl further fuel this love affair. Whether it’s the large scale cover art, lyrical inserts or gatefold graphics, vinyl records really do look beautiful.
And let’s face it: nothing looks cooler than walking into somebody’s house and seeing a collection of records and a turntable set up ready to go in the living room.
It’s definitely a lot more aesthetically pleasing than a laptop, AUX cord or a dusty old CD player.
“if you’re really into it, you can earn a mean profit”
3. Collectability 101
On that note, record collecting is actually a very decent hobby, and if you’re really into it, you can earn a mean profit from it.
While some are happy just buying records to fulfil their own personal collection, the plethora of websites and events dedicated to second-hand records are ever increasing, with thousands of like-minded sellers hunting to buy, sell and swap their prized records for big bucks.
Because of the vinyl revival, limited edition pressings and rare records have become highly sourced items for collectors, and if you’re savvy with your buying habits, you can manage to make bank and still maintain a solid collection for yourself.
Record collecting might totally consume your life, but hey sometimes it can be really worth it.
“there’s a thriving, passionate and widely accepting community of vinyl enthusiasts around the globe”
4. Vinyl is actually surprisingly social
Although stereotypes would depict otherwise, vinyl listeners are actually quite a social and friendly bunch.
Like any hobbyist, they’d love to chat to you for hours about your new turntable or rare Pink Floyd records.
With a multitude of events such as swap meets, record store days and BYO vinyl nights operating frequently in cities all over the world, the level of commitment many show towards record collecting means that there’s a thriving, passionate and widely accepting community of vinyl enthusiasts around the globe.
Some universities even have record collecting societies and clubs you can join to brag about your recent finds and swap LPs with your friends on campus.
“modern features such as Bluetooth compatibility and wireless speakers”
5. Record player technology is constantly improving
With so many recent innovations being made to the humble old record player, listening to vinyl is no longer the archaic art it used to be.
Brands like Crosley and the folks at MBeat combine affordability and practicality with their impressive units boasting modern features such as Bluetooth compatibility and wireless speakers.
In addition, there’s now an abundance of stores dedicated to stocking spare parts and repairing turntables, so it’s ever so easy to upgrade your unit if you want to go down that rabbit hole.
Getting set up with a modern turntable has never been easier or more affordable.
So, what are you waiting for? Ditch your phone and choose vinyl.