17 Best vinyl record stores in New York City
Vinyl record stores in New York City are a treasure trove for music enthusiasts, boasting an impressive collection of timeless classics and new releases alike. From the iconic streets of Greenwich Village to the vibrant neighborhoods of Brooklyn, these stores offer a unique and tangible musical experience that transcends digital platforms. Discover the charm of vinyl record stores in New York City and immerse yourself in a world of authentic sound and nostalgia.
Toc
- 1. Generation Records
- 2. Rough Trade
- 3. A-1 Record Shop
- 4. Human Head Records
- 5. Limited to One Record Shop
- 6. Academy Records & CDs
- 7. Brooklyn Record Exchange
- 8. Academy Records
- 9. Stranded Records NYC
- 10. 54 Vintage Vinyl
- 11. Record Grouch
- 12. Westsider Records
- 13. Rotten Island Records
- 14. Jazz Record Center
- 15. Captured Tracks Shop
- 16. Record Runner
- 17. Downtown Music Gallery
1. Generation Records
NYC's go-to spot for punk, metal, and rock since 1992.
__NEW TEXT__
The establishment offers an impressive selection of merchandise, particularly catering to punk and hardcore music fans. The range of products is extensive, providing something for every taste and preference. Of particular note is their vinyl collection, which features a wide variety of artists and genres.
The staff members at this establishment are a true asset, demonstrating excellent knowledge and a willingness to assist customers in finding exactly what they need. Whether it's a specific album or a piece of merchandise, the staff is always available to provide recommendations and insights. In addition to vinyl, the store also carries other items such as pins, posters, and t-shirts, making it a true one-stop shop for music enthusiasts.
The establishment offers an impressive selection of merchandise, particularly catering to punk and hardcore music fans. The range of products is extensive, providing something for every taste and preference. Of particular note is their vinyl collection, which features a wide variety of artists and genres.
The staff members at this establishment are a true asset, demonstrating excellent knowledge and a willingness to assist customers in finding exactly what they need. Whether it's a specific album or a piece of merchandise, the staff is always available to provide recommendations and insights. In addition to vinyl, the store also carries other items such as pins, posters, and t-shirts, making it a true one-stop shop for music enthusiasts.
2. Rough Trade
Iconic music store in the heart of NYC
__NEW TEXT__
The CD and cassette collection at this store is relatively small, with a limited selection of titles available. In contrast, the vinyl record collection is extensive, taking up almost half of the store's total inventory. The vinyl records available are of good quality, with many rare and hard-to-find titles available for purchase. The store's poster selection is also worth noting, offering a wide variety of options for music and art fans alike.
Rough Trade is a store known for its exceptional customer service, and this reputation is well-deserved. Over the years, customers have consistently reported high levels of satisfaction with their purchases, citing the store's careful packing and prompt shipping as major factors in their positive experiences. With a focus on providing high-quality products and excellent customer service, Rough Trade has established itself as a trusted source for music fans looking for a wide selection of vinyl records, CDs, cassettes, and posters.
The CD and cassette collection at this store is relatively small, with a limited selection of titles available. In contrast, the vinyl record collection is extensive, taking up almost half of the store's total inventory. The vinyl records available are of good quality, with many rare and hard-to-find titles available for purchase. The store's poster selection is also worth noting, offering a wide variety of options for music and art fans alike.
Rough Trade is a store known for its exceptional customer service, and this reputation is well-deserved. Over the years, customers have consistently reported high levels of satisfaction with their purchases, citing the store's careful packing and prompt shipping as major factors in their positive experiences. With a focus on providing high-quality products and excellent customer service, Rough Trade has established itself as a trusted source for music fans looking for a wide selection of vinyl records, CDs, cassettes, and posters.
3. A-1 Record Shop
Your go-to spot for rare and classic vinyl records.
__NEW TEXT__
A-1 Record Shop offers an impressive selection of music, from classic vinyl records to the latest album releases. Their prices for used records are quite reasonable, making it an affordable option for music enthusiasts looking to expand their collections. The shop has a long-standing reputation for quality and fairness, as evident in its consistent 4.6-star rating from over 470 satisfied customers.
With a history spanning two decades, A-1 Record Shop has proven to be a reliable and trustworthy source for all things music. Whether you were a customer 20 years ago or just last week, you can be assured of the same great selection and reasonable prices. The shop's enduring popularity is a testament to its commitment to providing an exceptional experience for all music lovers.
A-1 Record Shop offers an impressive selection of music, from classic vinyl records to the latest album releases. Their prices for used records are quite reasonable, making it an affordable option for music enthusiasts looking to expand their collections. The shop has a long-standing reputation for quality and fairness, as evident in its consistent 4.6-star rating from over 470 satisfied customers.
With a history spanning two decades, A-1 Record Shop has proven to be a reliable and trustworthy source for all things music. Whether you were a customer 20 years ago or just last week, you can be assured of the same great selection and reasonable prices. The shop's enduring popularity is a testament to its commitment to providing an exceptional experience for all music lovers.
4. Human Head Records
Your go-to spot for rare and eclectic vinyl finds.
__NEW TEXT__
Human Head, a record store located in Brooklyn, exudes a classic vibe that fans of vinyl are sure to appreciate. The crew at Human Head is known for their friendliness and vast knowledge of music, a refreshing alternative to the surly stereotype of traditional record store staff. The welcoming atmosphere, along with the cool and laid-back vibe, makes Human Head a standout in the world of record stores.
For those on the hunt for great records at reasonable prices, Human Head is a must-visit destination. The selection is always fresh and up-to-date, with new arrivals regularly added to the stock. The staff, led by Travis, are incredibly knowledgeable and dedicated to maintaining a well-organized and easy-to-navigate store. Whether you're a seasoned vinyl collector or just starting out, Human Head is highly recommended for anyone seeking a top-notch record store experience.
Human Head, a record store located in Brooklyn, exudes a classic vibe that fans of vinyl are sure to appreciate. The crew at Human Head is known for their friendliness and vast knowledge of music, a refreshing alternative to the surly stereotype of traditional record store staff. The welcoming atmosphere, along with the cool and laid-back vibe, makes Human Head a standout in the world of record stores.
For those on the hunt for great records at reasonable prices, Human Head is a must-visit destination. The selection is always fresh and up-to-date, with new arrivals regularly added to the stock. The staff, led by Travis, are incredibly knowledgeable and dedicated to maintaining a well-organized and easy-to-navigate store. Whether you're a seasoned vinyl collector or just starting out, Human Head is highly recommended for anyone seeking a top-notch record store experience.
5. Limited to One Record Shop
A haven for rare and collectible vinyl enthusiasts
__NEW TEXT__
This quaint store is a hidden gem for music enthusiasts who appreciate independent and punk genres, as well as hip hop and metal. The shop boasts a well-curated selection that truly reflects the local music scene. Patrons will appreciate the unique offerings, which are difficult to find in mainstream music stores.
Despite the store's impressive selection, it is not without its drawbacks. The pricing is exorbitant, with even regular items priced at a premium. The steep cost may deter some customers, and it is unfortunate that the shop's obscene prices do not match the quality of its offerings. Music lovers looking to explore new sounds may need to consider their budget before visiting this establishment.
This quaint store is a hidden gem for music enthusiasts who appreciate independent and punk genres, as well as hip hop and metal. The shop boasts a well-curated selection that truly reflects the local music scene. Patrons will appreciate the unique offerings, which are difficult to find in mainstream music stores.
Despite the store's impressive selection, it is not without its drawbacks. The pricing is exorbitant, with even regular items priced at a premium. The steep cost may deter some customers, and it is unfortunate that the shop's obscene prices do not match the quality of its offerings. Music lovers looking to explore new sounds may need to consider their budget before visiting this establishment.
6. Academy Records & CDs
A haven for vinyl and CD collectors since 1977
__NEW TEXT__
This beloved used records store is a favorite among music enthusiasts, offering a wide selection of records at affordable prices. Its cool and laid-back atmosphere makes it an ideal spot for customers to relax and browse through its collection. The store's location in Union Square, one of the city's most vibrant neighborhoods, only adds to its appeal.
For classical and jazz music fans, this store is truly a gem. It boasts an extensive collection of used records in these genres, making it the go-to destination for many music lovers. The store's knowledgeable and friendly staff are always on hand to offer expert advice and help customers find what they're looking for. Whether you're a seasoned collector or just starting out, this store has something for everyone.
This beloved used records store is a favorite among music enthusiasts, offering a wide selection of records at affordable prices. Its cool and laid-back atmosphere makes it an ideal spot for customers to relax and browse through its collection. The store's location in Union Square, one of the city's most vibrant neighborhoods, only adds to its appeal.
For classical and jazz music fans, this store is truly a gem. It boasts an extensive collection of used records in these genres, making it the go-to destination for many music lovers. The store's knowledgeable and friendly staff are always on hand to offer expert advice and help customers find what they're looking for. Whether you're a seasoned collector or just starting out, this store has something for everyone.
7. Brooklyn Record Exchange
Your ultimate destination for music discovery and dreaming.
__NEW TEXT__
This record shop boasts a spacious and uncluttered layout, making it easy for customers to browse through the records. The prices of the records are fair and reasonable, and they are in excellent condition. The staff members are not only knowledgeable about music and vinyl, but they are also approachable and friendly, creating a welcoming atmosphere for all visitors.
The record shop is a hidden gem, offering a vast selection of used records that are well-organized and reasonably priced. The owners' love for good music permeates the shop, creating a warm and inviting environment. The staff members are far from pretentious, greeting customers with a kind and welcoming demeanor. The affordability of the records is impressive - customers can expect to find great deals and come away with multiple records for a reasonable price. Overall, this record shop is a must-visit for any music and vinyl lover.
This record shop boasts a spacious and uncluttered layout, making it easy for customers to browse through the records. The prices of the records are fair and reasonable, and they are in excellent condition. The staff members are not only knowledgeable about music and vinyl, but they are also approachable and friendly, creating a welcoming atmosphere for all visitors.
The record shop is a hidden gem, offering a vast selection of used records that are well-organized and reasonably priced. The owners' love for good music permeates the shop, creating a warm and inviting environment. The staff members are far from pretentious, greeting customers with a kind and welcoming demeanor. The affordability of the records is impressive - customers can expect to find great deals and come away with multiple records for a reasonable price. Overall, this record shop is a must-visit for any music and vinyl lover.
8. Academy Records
Best prices for used records in NYC!
__NEW TEXT__
This establishment offers a one-of-a-kind experience for jazz and classical music enthusiasts, as well as those who cherish the nostalgia of vinyl records. Its atmosphere is reminiscent of Amoeba Music, encouraging visitors to lose track of time while exploring its collection.
The selection is staggering and the organization is impeccable, making it easy for visitors to find their favorite records or discover new ones. The knowledgeable staff members are always available to offer recommendations, making this a must-visit destination for music connoisseurs.
This establishment offers a one-of-a-kind experience for jazz and classical music enthusiasts, as well as those who cherish the nostalgia of vinyl records. Its atmosphere is reminiscent of Amoeba Music, encouraging visitors to lose track of time while exploring its collection.
The selection is staggering and the organization is impeccable, making it easy for visitors to find their favorite records or discover new ones. The knowledgeable staff members are always available to offer recommendations, making this a must-visit destination for music connoisseurs.
9. Stranded Records NYC
A haven for vinyl enthusiasts in the heart of NYC.
__NEW TEXT__
This collection of jazz, funk, soul, rock, hip hop, disco, and other genres is truly exceptional. Each record has been carefully selected, ensuring a diverse and high-quality assortment of music for any taste. The prices are also very reasonable, making it easy for both casual listeners and serious collectors to find something they'll enjoy.
The staff at this establishment are knowledgeable and passionate about music, providing excellent customer service and recommendations. The vinyl selection is extensive and well-organized, making it easy to find what you're looking for or discover something new. Overall, this is a must-visit destination for any music lover looking to expand their collection.
This collection of jazz, funk, soul, rock, hip hop, disco, and other genres is truly exceptional. Each record has been carefully selected, ensuring a diverse and high-quality assortment of music for any taste. The prices are also very reasonable, making it easy for both casual listeners and serious collectors to find something they'll enjoy.
The staff at this establishment are knowledgeable and passionate about music, providing excellent customer service and recommendations. The vinyl selection is extensive and well-organized, making it easy to find what you're looking for or discover something new. Overall, this is a must-visit destination for any music lover looking to expand their collection.
10. 54 Vintage Vinyl
A haven for vinyl enthusiasts and collectors
__NEW TEXT__
An expansive 11,000 square foot establishment combines a bar, eatery, and American pop culture celebration. Notably, it features a record store with an exceptional collection of both new and used vinyl records, numbering over 20,000. With genres ranging from jazz and rock to classical, pop, opera, and musicals, vinyl enthusiasts are sure to find unique and diverse selections. The establishment's commitment to vinyl culture includes not only browsing opportunities but also buying and selling used records.
In addition to the record store, an exclusive speakeasy offers 18 private karaoke rooms, each boasting a distinct pop culture theme. These rooms, designed for groups to sing and socialize, are accompanied by two full-service bars. This innovative approach creates an immersive experience that pays homage to American pop culture while providing entertainment and refreshment options in an intimate setting. The combination of a vast record collection and themed karaoke rooms showcases the establishment's dedication to offering a diverse and engaging atmosphere.
An expansive 11,000 square foot establishment combines a bar, eatery, and American pop culture celebration. Notably, it features a record store with an exceptional collection of both new and used vinyl records, numbering over 20,000. With genres ranging from jazz and rock to classical, pop, opera, and musicals, vinyl enthusiasts are sure to find unique and diverse selections. The establishment's commitment to vinyl culture includes not only browsing opportunities but also buying and selling used records.
In addition to the record store, an exclusive speakeasy offers 18 private karaoke rooms, each boasting a distinct pop culture theme. These rooms, designed for groups to sing and socialize, are accompanied by two full-service bars. This innovative approach creates an immersive experience that pays homage to American pop culture while providing entertainment and refreshment options in an intimate setting. The combination of a vast record collection and themed karaoke rooms showcases the establishment's dedication to offering a diverse and engaging atmosphere.
11. Record Grouch
Unique finds for every music lover
__NEW TEXT__
Record Grouch in Brooklyn's Greenpoint stands out for its carefully curated selection of records that are both rare and fascinating. As you enter the store, your eyes are immediately drawn to the left wall, which is filled with new arrivals. The store's layout is such that as you walk between the shelves, you take smaller steps, allowing you to take in all the sights and sounds around you.
Record Grouch offers a diverse range of music genres in various formats, including vinyl LPs, 7" and 12" singles, CDs, books, and 'zines. Music enthusiasts are sure to find something that piques their interest, whether it's a classic album they've been searching for or a new release that they haven't heard of yet. The store's knowledgeable staff are always on hand to offer recommendations and insights into their extensive collection.
Record Grouch in Brooklyn's Greenpoint stands out for its carefully curated selection of records that are both rare and fascinating. As you enter the store, your eyes are immediately drawn to the left wall, which is filled with new arrivals. The store's layout is such that as you walk between the shelves, you take smaller steps, allowing you to take in all the sights and sounds around you.
Record Grouch offers a diverse range of music genres in various formats, including vinyl LPs, 7" and 12" singles, CDs, books, and 'zines. Music enthusiasts are sure to find something that piques their interest, whether it's a classic album they've been searching for or a new release that they haven't heard of yet. The store's knowledgeable staff are always on hand to offer recommendations and insights into their extensive collection.
12. Westsider Records
A haven for vinyl lovers and performing arts enthusiasts.
__NEW TEXT__
Bruce, the knowledgeable and friendly record store owner, quickly came to the rescue when a customer needed help with their High School graduation tape and swim camp tapes. With a swift response time of just a few minutes, Bruce was able to save the day. The customer was impressed with the quick 24-hour turnaround and the high-quality restoration of their precious memories.
As one of the best record stores around, this establishment not only boasts an impressive collection of music but also provides exceptional customer service. Bruce's expertise and willingness to help went above and beyond the customer's expectations, leaving them grateful and satisfied with the results. Whether you're a vinyl collector or just looking for some great music, this record store is the place to be.
Bruce, the knowledgeable and friendly record store owner, quickly came to the rescue when a customer needed help with their High School graduation tape and swim camp tapes. With a swift response time of just a few minutes, Bruce was able to save the day. The customer was impressed with the quick 24-hour turnaround and the high-quality restoration of their precious memories.
As one of the best record stores around, this establishment not only boasts an impressive collection of music but also provides exceptional customer service. Bruce's expertise and willingness to help went above and beyond the customer's expectations, leaving them grateful and satisfied with the results. Whether you're a vinyl collector or just looking for some great music, this record store is the place to be.
13. Rotten Island Records
14. Jazz Record Center
A treasure trove for jazz enthusiasts.
__NEW TEXT__
For serious jazz aficionados or casual listeners looking to expand their vinyl collection, this establishment is an essential destination. The carefully curated selection of jazz records is truly impressive, with a diverse range of artists, albums, and sub-genres catering to all levels of interest. The knowledgeable and friendly staff are always on hand to provide expert advice, making the browsing experience even more enjoyable and informative.
This jazz vinyl specialist is a true gem for any record collector. The vast collection includes many hard-to-find gems, ensuring that even seasoned collectors will discover something new. For jazz enthusiasts, it is a rare opportunity to find such a wide range of records in one place. With its welcoming atmosphere, knowledgeable staff, and extensive selection, this store has earned its reputation as a premier destination for jazz vinyl enthusiasts. Highly recommended for those looking to explore or expand their jazz record collections.
For serious jazz aficionados or casual listeners looking to expand their vinyl collection, this establishment is an essential destination. The carefully curated selection of jazz records is truly impressive, with a diverse range of artists, albums, and sub-genres catering to all levels of interest. The knowledgeable and friendly staff are always on hand to provide expert advice, making the browsing experience even more enjoyable and informative.
This jazz vinyl specialist is a true gem for any record collector. The vast collection includes many hard-to-find gems, ensuring that even seasoned collectors will discover something new. For jazz enthusiasts, it is a rare opportunity to find such a wide range of records in one place. With its welcoming atmosphere, knowledgeable staff, and extensive selection, this store has earned its reputation as a premier destination for jazz vinyl enthusiasts. Highly recommended for those looking to explore or expand their jazz record collections.
15. Captured Tracks Shop
A haven for vinyl enthusiasts in Greenpoint, Brooklyn.
__NEW TEXT__
Captured Tracks, a record label known for its cool and laid-back aesthetic, has found the perfect home in a sleepy Greenpoint side street. The store's selection of indie rock records, CDs, and cassettes are handpicked and well-curated, making it a must-visit destination for fans of the genre. The label, which represents artists such as Mac DeMarco and Juan Wauters, has been operating out of this location since 2008 and has become an established part of the indie rock community.
The store's atmosphere is relaxed and inviting, with knowledgeable staff on hand to help customers find what they're looking for. The selection is not limited to just Captured Tracks' artists, but also includes a wide range of other indie rock labels. Whether you're a seasoned collector or just starting to explore the world of indie rock, Captured Tracks has something to offer. The store is a true representation of the label's commitment to quality and authenticity, making it a standout destination in Greenpoint.
Captured Tracks, a record label known for its cool and laid-back aesthetic, has found the perfect home in a sleepy Greenpoint side street. The store's selection of indie rock records, CDs, and cassettes are handpicked and well-curated, making it a must-visit destination for fans of the genre. The label, which represents artists such as Mac DeMarco and Juan Wauters, has been operating out of this location since 2008 and has become an established part of the indie rock community.
The store's atmosphere is relaxed and inviting, with knowledgeable staff on hand to help customers find what they're looking for. The selection is not limited to just Captured Tracks' artists, but also includes a wide range of other indie rock labels. Whether you're a seasoned collector or just starting to explore the world of indie rock, Captured Tracks has something to offer. The store is a true representation of the label's commitment to quality and authenticity, making it a standout destination in Greenpoint.
16. Record Runner
A haven for vinyl enthusiasts in the heart of Greenwich Village.
__NEW TEXT__
This NYC record store stands out for its excellent vinyl selection and welcoming atmosphere. The owner is approachable and knowledgeable, providing a refreshing change from the snobby attitudes found in many other stores. During a conversation on a Friday, he displayed extensive understanding of various artists and worldwide releases.
For music enthusiasts, this store offers a range of genres to explore. From Japanese imports to classic records, there's something for everyone. Prices are reasonable, and customers can avoid international shipping fees, unlike when purchasing online. On a recent visit, a customer found and purchased two vinyl records, one by Miami Sound Machine and another by Ella and Louis Armstrong. This store is highly recommended for a delightful and satisfying shopping experience.
This NYC record store stands out for its excellent vinyl selection and welcoming atmosphere. The owner is approachable and knowledgeable, providing a refreshing change from the snobby attitudes found in many other stores. During a conversation on a Friday, he displayed extensive understanding of various artists and worldwide releases.
For music enthusiasts, this store offers a range of genres to explore. From Japanese imports to classic records, there's something for everyone. Prices are reasonable, and customers can avoid international shipping fees, unlike when purchasing online. On a recent visit, a customer found and purchased two vinyl records, one by Miami Sound Machine and another by Ella and Louis Armstrong. This store is highly recommended for a delightful and satisfying shopping experience.
17. Downtown Music Gallery
A haven for avant-garde and experimental music lovers
__NEW TEXT__
Downtown Music Gallery, established in 1991, is a treasure trove of experimental, avant-garde, jazz, progressive, and downtown music. The gallery offers a vast selection of CDs, LPs, and DVDs that are sure to satisfy any music aficionado's tastes. Whether you're a collector of vinyl records or a fan of compact discs, Downtown Music Gallery has got you covered.
The gallery's inventory includes both new and used CDs and records, music DVDs, and even some magazines, t-shirts, and books. Approximately 40% of their stock is vinyl, with some rare LPs available for die-hard collectors. Overall, Downtown Music Gallery is a must-visit destination for anyone seeking unique and hard-to-find music in physical formats. Their commitment to providing a diverse range of experimental and avant-garde music sets them apart from other music retailers.
Downtown Music Gallery, established in 1991, is a treasure trove of experimental, avant-garde, jazz, progressive, and downtown music. The gallery offers a vast selection of CDs, LPs, and DVDs that are sure to satisfy any music aficionado's tastes. Whether you're a collector of vinyl records or a fan of compact discs, Downtown Music Gallery has got you covered.
The gallery's inventory includes both new and used CDs and records, music DVDs, and even some magazines, t-shirts, and books. Approximately 40% of their stock is vinyl, with some rare LPs available for die-hard collectors. Overall, Downtown Music Gallery is a must-visit destination for anyone seeking unique and hard-to-find music in physical formats. Their commitment to providing a diverse range of experimental and avant-garde music sets them apart from other music retailers.