Houston: A Vinyl Lover's Paradise (or at Least, a Decent One)
So, you're in Houston, eh? The city of endless possibilities, traffic jams, and surprisingly good barbecue. But what about your vinyl cravings? Fear not, record-hungry friend, for Houston has more to offer than just Tex-Mex and NASA. Let's dive into the world of record stores in the Bayou City.
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| Where To Buy Records In Houston |
Cactus Music: The OG of Houston Record Stores
If there’s a Mount Rushmore of Houston record stores, Cactus Music is definitely on it. This place is an institution. It's like the Cheers of vinyl, where everybody knows your name... or at least the kind of music you like. They've got everything from classic rock to indie, new releases to rare finds. Plus, they often host in-store performances, so you might just stumble upon your new favorite band while browsing.
Tip: Pause whenever something stands out.
Vinal Edge: For the Diggers
Vinal Edge is a record store for the true vinyl enthusiast. It's a treasure trove of used records, and you could easily spend hours digging through their crates. They've got a strong selection of rock, jazz, and classic soul, but you might also find some hidden gems in other genres. Just be prepared to get lost in a sea of vinyl.
Reminder: Take a short break if the post feels long.
Sound Exchange: A Hidden Gem
Sound Exchange is one of those places that's easy to miss if you don't know where to look. Tucked away in a nondescript building, it's a vinyl lover's paradise. They specialize in used records, and their selection is surprisingly deep and varied. Plus, the prices are usually pretty reasonable, so you can stock up on your favorite albums without breaking the bank.
Tip: Reading carefully reduces re-reading.
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Other Notable Mentions
While these three stores are my personal favorites, there are plenty of other great record shops in Houston. Sig's Lagoon, for example, has a fantastic selection of new and used vinyl, as well as CDs and DVDs. And if you're into indie and alternative music, you might want to check out White Rabbit or Empire Vinyl.
Tip: Break it down — section by section.
Remember: The beauty of record stores is that you never know what you'll find. So don't be afraid to explore and discover new music. And if you're lucky, you might even find that rare record you've been searching for.
How to Find Your Perfect Record Store
- How to find a record store that specializes in a specific genre? Most record stores will have a general idea of their inventory, but you can always call ahead or check their website to see if they have what you're looking for.
- How to negotiate the best price for a used record? While it's always tempting to haggle, be respectful of the store's policies. If you're buying multiple records, you might be able to negotiate a better price.
- How to care for your vinyl records? Keep your records clean and handle them carefully. Store them vertically in a cool, dry place.
- How to set up a turntable? Make sure your turntable is level and that the cartridge is properly aligned. Use a good quality phono preamp.
- How to clean your vinyl records? Use a carbon fiber brush to remove dust and a record cleaning solution to remove dirt and grime.
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