Vinyl Record Collecting For Dummies

Starred review from April 12, 2024

Seasoned music/pop culture writer Thompson (I Hate Old Music, Too) elucidates the world of record collecting in a new entry to the "For Dummies" series. After starting with a brief history of the vinyl record, the book moves to the necessary listening gear (turntable, amplifier, and speakers) and to the process of making a vinyl disc. Thompson covers the desirability of first versus subsequent pressings and explains the significance of such highly collectible versions as test pressings, promos, Japanese and European albums, and bootlegs. There are sections about hunting for vinyl at yard sales, thrift and record stores, and online vendors; record grading; caring for a collection; and record collecting as an investment. Perhaps most importantly, Thompson emphasizes the importance for collectors of having a particular collecting focus and provides examples about collecting by genres, specific artists (including Springsteen, Miles Davis, the Rolling Stones, Taylor Swift, and, of course, the Beatles), and such sought-after record labels as Chess, Stiff, Homestead, and Vertigo. The book ends with a list of 10 legendary bootlegs and 10 of the most valuable records. VERDICT The highly knowledgeable Thompson delivers an accessible, straightforward, and comprehensive guide to the increasingly popular hobby of record collecting. Good for general readers and vinyl collectors.--Dr. Dave Szatmary

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