Some people jumped back into collecting, some never stopped collecting and others are just starting down this path, but for some reason all vinyl collectors soon become addicted. Vinyl collectors live for the high of digging through crates of vintage records at stores or flea markets, searching for new vinyl finds online, going through their parents collection, and finally sitting down to listen to the unique sounds of vinyl. Any vinyl record collector knows the feel of that rush when they run across a particular collectible they have been searching for for years. But, how do you know when you've gone too far?
Six warning signs that you too may be addicted to vinyl record collecting:
1. You bargain with yourself to justify purchasing another new vinyl.
You tell yourself that you will put money in your savings next month. Or you convince yourself that buying vinyl is an investment so the 401k can wait. Maybe you say to yourself, “I’ll sell some of my least favorite vinyl that I really don’t listen to anymore.” No matter what, buying vinyl will always win over practicality.
2. You could teach a class on eBay auction sniping and record flipping.
Anyone who has purchased collectibles on eBay knows the feeling of being outbid at the last second, as well as the feeling of not being able to find a BRAND NEW RELEASE because all the copies have been purchased by flippers who will attempt to sell these copies on eBay and Discogs. This is a sad, sad feeling we will all feel at one point or another, but know that you will get the last laugh when the record label decides to repress the album.
3. Your local record store knows you by name.
Your record store is like a vacation destination. You actually get ready and prepare to visit the store. However, if the staff greets you by name when you come through the front door, this could be a strong sign of addiction. Do they hold vinyl for you or even call you when something special comes in? This is when you know you’re really in trouble.
4. You assume it’s acceptable to sit at home every day and night listening to vinyl.
What's the point of spending a substantial amount of money on vinyl record collecting if you're not going to listen to them? And no, this decision has nothing to do with the fact that you've been living on ramen and PB&J for a month to fund your latest purchases and have no money left for going out.
5. You are willing to spend hours of your time alphabetizing your albums, and it is the focus of your home decor.
Your collection must be perfectly organized, flawlessly arranged and in a special storage area in the main room of your home, assuming that your listening room is your main room.
6. You spend at least $1,000 a year on audio equipment and records.
Most new releases are going to run you around $15 to $30, but every now and again you feel like splurging on that mint first press of Joy Division’s “Unknown Pleasures.” And you seem to do this more often than you should…maybe like once a month.
But of course, in the end it's all worth it. You know that your record collection is not just for show, it's there because your passion is buying, listening to, and collecting the music you enjoy, and maybe you don't have enough money for a $200 album, but that's fine, buy the cheap repress! What matters most is that you enjoy the music.
