Collecting / 6 MIN READ
Record Store Day, from the list to the counter
How the day began, how to read a release entry and what to check with your shop before you queue.
Collecting
Collecting / 7 MIN READ
Grade the record, then the sleeve
What separates VG from VG+, how to inspect a used copy and how to write a condition note a buyer can use.
Listening / 5 MIN READ
Why CDs are finding new collectors
Cheaper albums, small players and packages worth keeping, for listeners who already stream.
Collecting / 7 MIN READ
One shelf, two formats
A filing rule for vinyl and CDs, a home for every awkward record and a five-item test to see if it works.
Collecting / 6 MIN READ
Export your Discogs collection, then check it
Request the right file, keep an untouched original and find out what the CSV leaves behind.
Collecting / 6 MIN READ
Cleaning a record by hand, start to finish
One documented GrooveWasher G2 routine: loose dust, label mask, pad, drying and a clean inner sleeve.
Listening / 6 MIN READ
What are those album ratings actually rating?
Five services, different scales, and the distinction between loving an album and recommending its pressing.
Reviews / 7 MIN READ
Discogs app review: essential catalogue, awkward collection
An excellent record database and a busy marketplace. Browsing your own shelves is where the compromises show.
Collecting / 4 MIN READ
Same album. Different record.
The cover gets you to the album. The label, catalogue number and deadwax get you to your pressing. Here’s where to look.
Collecting / 5 MIN READ
Those scratches are trying to tell you something
A practical guide to deadwax and matrix numbers. Start with the inscription you can actually read.
Collecting / 4 MIN READ
Why one barcode matches several pressings
A barcode narrows the search. It doesn’t always finish it.
Collecting / 5 MIN READ
The asking price is only half the story
Read Discogs sales history without mistaking a hopeful listing for a record’s value.
Collecting / 5 MIN READ
Buying vinyl on Bandcamp
Check the edition, the shipping date and the postage before ordering.
Collecting / 7 MIN READ
Five record cleaners, and the work each leaves to you
Manual baths, vacuum machines and ultrasonic cleaning. The useful strengths and the daily friction.
Collecting / 5 MIN READ
PVC record sleeves: the protection worth replacing
What flexible PVC gets wrong, and what to use around the disc and jacket instead.