2. analog
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Vinyl playback is still a secret

Over the last two years I have encountered many baby boomers with vinyl collections who did not know that vinyl was alive and well. Most could not believe that one could buy a new cartridge or replace a TT. What has struck me most is how none of these people would sell me their collection of LPs. Their records represent too many precious memories(even when records have not been played for 20 years).

My point is that mainstream consumers need to become more aware of the revitalization of analog. Articles and advertisements for analog products and accessories must be more apparent through the popular press. Sterophile, Absolute Sound, HiFi News et al. as well as websites such as Audiogon essentially reach the true believers and not the population at large.

Somehow, the popular press barrier must be breached if analog is to become truly vibrant and "cool" again.
cardiackid

Showing 4 responses by 4yanx

4yanx
1,576 posts
 
As long as you don't call THAT a complaint, Zy. :-)
4yanx
1,576 posts
 
Wild - I was in the same position a few years back. It was either stop hauling the then 2,000+ LP's when moving and sell them or buy a front end to do them justice. Now I have about 3,500. If you ultimately decide it is not the road for you, I have room for more! :-)
4yanx
1,576 posts
 
If you have THAT many sources for pittance-priced LP's why, pray tell, do you complain about the "$10 junk" on Audiogon? ;-)
4yanx
1,576 posts
 
They are going up in the Bay Area, California, too. Goodwills and other thrifts have gone from their LONG standard 99 cents to $1.99. The dollar bin at one music store is getting increasingly less populated. Once the mostly $2.49 LP's are now 3.99 - $4.99's are $6.99, and so on. Plus, you don't find those mint first pressings as often for a dollar. The staff is getting more careful to weed out based on condition, pressing, etc.

You can still find real values at the thrifts (I found a mint first pressing Buckingham-Nicks two weeks ago for a buck), even they are getting wise. Where I live you NEVER see 50's/60's jazz at the thrifts unless they are TRASHED. Someone is sifting through and selling them elsewhere. I have no real problem because the money goes to those that need it much more than do I need a cheap record.

Still, even at $7.99 for a NM LP, it is cheaper and better than CD's, and FAR cheaper then buying some of the new re-releases. Here is one reason for us to HOPE that vinyl comes back strong. More sales will mean cheaper unit prices, eventually.
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