Returned to Albums/ Vinyl after 30 years


Just purchased a restored Thorens TD 160 here after a debacle (terrible) purchase (Sansui SR-222) on Ebay. Won't make that mistake again. The TD 160 seems nice (I owned one briefly in the 70's). I had a few albums that I purchased recently from Half Price Books. One that I got, I thought was for a good price (John Coltrane,"Standard Coltrane") a 180 gram for $13.95. I'm into jazz seriously.

How much are you paying for new albums these days? Looking around a little online, the prices are all over the place. Some prices are ridiculous.
What's a decent price for albums, for example re-issue Blue Notes or other jazz labels?
foster_9
Vinyl prices will vary widely based on market for particular items. Old, rare, popular titles in good condition will demand highest prices. Also new vinyl bought in B&M audio shops perhaps. A local B&M shop near me just starting stocking a fair selection of old titles in new vinyl for $30 a pop, which is ridiculous in general.

Google is your friend when determining how much any particular release can/should cost.

I have not paid over $20 for any used record I have bought ever, including in recent years, but prices on harder to find more desirable titles seem to be going up of late when I look.

There are many fantastic sounding used bargains to be found for just $1 or so on older, lesser known titles that can be found in less trendy places, like yard sales, Goodwill, flea markets, etc. This is where one is mot likely to find new sonic gems not heard before on vinyl. You just have to have good eyes for determining the condition. Many used records are in horrible shape with groove damage, etc. from being played on poor quality gear over the years, but many others can be found in near mint condition still.

A good approach for cleaning records is a must. I use my own manual cleaning approach that takes some time but works to a tee. Lots of ways to skin that cat.
I take as an example of vinyl pricing discogs and collectorsfrenzy.
I also try to purchase original releases. 180g reissues aren't as good as used mint or near-mint originals.