How to Start Collecting Vinyl in 2025 (Beginner’s Guide)
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Thinking about diving into vinyl? You’re not alone. Whether it’s the tactile joy of dropping the needle or the thrill of crate digging, vinyl records are more popular than ever — and 2024 is a great time to start collecting.
Here’s everything you need to know to get started, without the hype or headaches.
🎧 1. Start With a Simple Setup
You don’t need a $2,000 turntable to enjoy records.
What you need:
- A good entry-level turntable (e.g. Audio-Technica LP60X or Pro-Ject Primary E)
- Powered speakers or an amp + passive speakers
- A solid surface to place it on (avoid wobbly tables)
🔍 Tip: Avoid suitcase players — they can damage your records over time.
💿 2. Buy a Few Records You Love
Start with albums you actually want to listen to — not just what’s “rare” or hyped.
Good starting points:
- Albums you know by heart
- Classic pressings with great sound (Fleetwood Mac, Pink Floyd, Bowie)
- Local finds or releases from independent stores like Heathen Records 😉
🏷️ 3. Understand Vinyl Conditions (Grading 101)
Not all records are created equal — condition affects both sound and value.
Basic grading terms:
- NM (Near Mint): Almost perfect
- VG+ (Very Good Plus): Light signs of wear, plays well
- VG (Very Good): Noticeable surface noise, still listenable
- G or below: Probably a wall-hanger
📦 Tip: Always buy from trusted sellers who grade accurately.
🛍️ 4. Where to Buy Vinyl Records
- Record stores: Support local — you can see and inspect before buying
- Online stores: Like Heathen Records, offering new & collectible stock
- Record fairs and markets: Great for digging and deals
🎨 5. Protect Your Collection
Good storage and care = long life for your vinyl.
- Store vertically, never stacked
- Use anti-static inner sleeves and poly outer sleeves
- Keep away from heat and sunlight
- Clean with a carbon fibre brush before and after playing
🧼 Want to deep clean? Use record cleaning solution or a proper vinyl washer — not your kitchen sponge!
📈 6. Explore Pressings, Labels, and Variants
Once you’ve got the basics, you’ll start noticing:
- First pressings
- Different labels or catalogue numbers
- Colored vinyl vs black vinyl
- Reissues vs originals
And yes — some records really do sound better on wax.
🎁 7. Don’t Chase Value — Chase Joy
Not every record needs to be a “grail.” Start small, trust your ears, and build a collection that means something to you.
You can always upgrade later. And if you ever decide to go deeper — box sets, audiophile pressings, and rare finds await.
🎶 Ready to Start?
Check out our latest vinyl arrivals or dig into our On the Record series to learn the stories behind some of the rarest pressings ever made.