Vinyls and record players were originally popularized in the late 1900s, fizzling out a bit in the 1980-90s, but recently making a comeback with younger generations, myself included.
Vinyl records over time have changed in the way they’re used. First it was mainly for listening to music and for the artistry of it.
Mow most people use them for decorations, hanging them on their walls.
I have 20+ records currently in my collection, which is still growing. To play my vinyl records, I started out with one of those suitcase record players, which had a messed up tone-arm that didn’t quite reach the record. I had to balance a coin on it to weigh it down enough, probably not the best thing to do.
When my parents realized I was getting more interested in records, they got me a nicer record player from the Jensen brand. It’s a little bigger than the suitcase, comes with speakers, and can also be used as a radio, CD player, and cassette tape player.
Since vinyl records aren’t super mainstream, it’s hard finding old vinyls, especially ones that aren’t 50+ dollars. I really like to go to Recycled Records, located in south Reno off Kietzke Lane. They have a very wide selection of records, as well as CDs, DVDs, and posters, used and new.
I try to go to Recycled Records during my free time, sometimes alone. It’s more fun with friends when we make a day a group outing out of it. The prices are still a little steep for me, but I can splurge for one or two every once and a while. I also try to add the records I don’t have, and want, to my birthday/Christmas lists.
I don’t think people give vinyls enough credit. Making them is such a strange process, and artists put a lot of time into making up how it’s going to look, and not just the record itself. The whole cover for the vinyl is meticulously thought up, as well as what goes on the cover, insides, and back.
The way they work is so interesting to me, with little grooves that a needle goes through and music plays. It’s fun putting the disc in the player, putting the tone arm and needle down, and just watching it spin.