How to Build an Impressive CD Collection

Even though MP3s and digital audio is taking over the media world, music lovers still enjoy having an actual hard copy of their favorite music. These hard copies have changed over the years, from 8-track tapes to vinyl albums and now CDs. But buying all of your favorite CDs at your favorite media store can be expensive. Here are some ways to build an impressive CD collection with CD clubs so you don’t need to break your budget to enjoy your favorite music.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

1. Look for inserts in magazines and newspapers. Most CD clubs, like BMG, place advertisements in music magazines and entertainment magazines.
2. Tear out an insert and peruse the options. CD clubs often list the latest album releases with their advertisements, but they also have some classic albums as well.
3. Circle the albums you’d like to receive. For now, go through and find the ones that interest you the most.
4. Narrow down your list. CD clubs generally allow you to choose 6 or 7 CDs to receive with your initial shipment. From the ones you’ve circled, choose the allotted number and write the corresponding numbers in the appropriate boxes. When you’ve completely filled it out, mail the card to the company.
5. Pay your bill on time when the CDs arrive. Choose some more CDs to purchase to fulfill your membership agreement as soon as possible. Normally, the companies allow a year or more to fulfill your agreement.
6. Cancel your membership immediately after fulfilling your agreement. Wait 2 weeks and join the company again as a new member. You’ll get another group of CDs as your initial shipment to add to your collection. Repeat the process as many times as you’d like until you’ve built an impressive CD collection.

Tips & Warnings

• If you have other people in your household, sign them up as friends. Clubs like BMG offer special deals to those who introduce friends to the club so you’ll get even more CDs at a discount price.
• Don’t sign up with different names. Some people have tried this, but it can be considered a federal crime since it involves the postal service.
• Pay the bills on time. Late fees and charges can reduce the bargain you’re getting for the CDs.
• Mail the cards back on time. CD clubs often send you the “Selection of the Month” if you don’t respond to the mailings in time. This means you could be stuck with some CDs that you don’t want.