How to Find New LPs

Vinyl records deliver as-yet unmatched joy and realism for playback of recorded music, but CDs seem to have taken over completely. Where can you find new records?

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• LPs

1. Call the used record stores in your area to find out whether they also carry new records.

2. Check chain CD stores, which periodically stock records and can usually order them.

3. Check Internet CD stores, as some also stock LPs. You might have to ask.

4. Check the Acoustic Sounds, ARS Nova, AudioMax, Elusive Disc, Hello HiFi, Music Direct, Needle Doctor, Savant Audio & Video, Turnipseed Music LP, and Vinyl Valet Web sites for audiophile LPs, imports and new releases from major labels. Get free mail-order catalogs from many of these businesses.

5. Check the Quality Vinyl Web site for hard-to-find items and new releases.

6. Check the Harvard Square Records site for brand-new copies (usually "cut-outs") of thousands of old LPs.

7. Visit member sites of the Record Collector's Webring, but expect to find mostly used records.

8. E-mail or call independent record labels to find out whether they still stock specific out-of-print LPs.

9. Read reviews in audio and music magazines and note format information.

10. Check the Schwann catalog for information about new classical releases.

Tips & Warnings

• Major labels often do not announce LP releases of specific titles, even though the albums are available. Ask your local music store to check.
• Independent labels, such as Rounder and Sugar Hill, have substantial back stock of LPs released in the 1980s. They are rarely advertised, but the prices are excellent.

on 11/22/2005 I've had some luck with www.ebay.com