A Starter's Manual for Record Collecting and Care

1. Start Small, Build Smart

When starting your collection, it’s tempting to buy as many records as possible. Instead, focus on:

• Prioritizing Favorites: Start with albums you love and know you’ll listen to often.

• Exploring Genres: Use vinyl as an opportunity to discover new music.

• Condition First: Look for records in good condition, especially when buying used. Check for scratches, warping, and clean labels.

2. Proper Storage Is Key

Vinyl records are delicate and require proper storage to prevent damage. Follow these guidelines:

• Store Upright: Never stack records horizontally, as this can cause warping.

• Use Protective Sleeves: Keep records in their original inner sleeves or replace them with anti-static sleeves.

• Avoid Extreme Conditions: Store your records in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and humidity.

• Invest in Shelving: Use sturdy, purpose-built shelves like IKEA Kallax units, which are popular among collectors.

3. Clean Your Records Regularly

Dust and debris can negatively affect sound quality and cause wear on your records and stylus. Cleaning is crucial:

• Brush Before and After Use: Use a carbon fibre brush to remove surface dust before and after each play.

• Deep Clean Periodically: Invest in a record cleaning kit or a manual cleaning system for deeper cleaning.

• DIY Solutions: Use a microfiber cloth and a mix of distilled water and isopropyl alcohol (70/30 ratio) for a budget-friendly cleaning option.

4. Maintain Your Turntable

Your turntable is just as important as your records when it comes to achieving great sound quality. Here’s how to care for it:

• Level It: Ensure your turntable is on a flat, stable surface to avoid skipping and uneven wear.

• Clean the Stylus: Use a stylus cleaning brush or gel to remove dirt and dust.

• Replace the Stylus: Depending on usage, replace your stylus every 500-1,000 hours of play.

• Check Belt Drives: If your turntable is belt-driven, inspect the belt for wear and replace it if necessary.

5. Handle Records with Care

How you handle your records matters:

• Hold by the Edges: Avoid touching the grooves to prevent oils and dirt from transferring to the record surface.

• Be Gentle: Place and remove records carefully from their sleeves and turntable to avoid scratches.

6. Know What to Look for When Buying Used Vinyl

Used records can be treasures, but inspect them closely before purchasing:

• Inspect the Surface: Look for scratches, scuffs, and dirt. Minor surface marks are often fine, but deep scratches will affect playback.

• Check the Label: Faded or torn labels might indicate poor storage conditions.

• Listen Before You Buy: If possible, listen to the record in-store to assess its sound quality.

7. Upgrade Accessories for Better Performance

Small investments in accessories can enhance your vinyl experience:

• Use a Record Weight or Clamp: These help stabilize your records and reduce vibrations during playback.

• Add a Slipmat: A high-quality slipmat can reduce static and improve sound quality.

• Invest in a Preamp: A good preamp can significantly improve the sound of your turntable setup.

8. Keep a Catalog of Your Collection

As your collection grows, keeping track of your records becomes important:

• Use an App: Platforms like Discogs allow you to catalogue your collection and check values.

• Organise by Genre or Artist: Find a system that makes it easy to locate specific albums.

9. Limit Wear and Tear

To preserve your records and turntable:

• Avoid Overplaying: Give your records a break between listens to prevent excessive wear.

• Cue Carefully: Use the cueing lever on your turntable to lower the tonearm gently.

• Avoid Skipping Tracks: Constantly moving the needle can cause unnecessary wear on the record and stylus.

10. Enjoy it

Finally, remember that collecting vinyl is about more than just the music. It’s about enjoying the tactile experience, the album artwork, and the warm analogue sound that records provide. Take your time, explore new genres, and savour every spin.

By following these tips and tricks, you’ll ensure that your records and turntable remain in excellent condition for years to come. Happy collecting and any questions, please reach out on the socials!