Quote:
Originally Posted by JMcMasterJ
I know I'm digging up an old thread, but I'm soo tempted to get into vinyl. I love playing my parent's old records when I go over to their house. I just don't know if my wallet will be able to handle it. I would like to get something like a VPI Scout, but then there are so many other costs... cartridge, phono pre-amp, cleaning stuff, dust cover, etc. To vinyl or not to vinyl? hmmm....
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Vinyl...everything worth something in life is worth putting some effort into getting it. That can mean relationships, education, proficiency in a sport or hobby, appreciating fine food/wine and yes even music.
Vinyl can be a PITA. No doubt about it. Quality control varies for the pressings whereas with a CD or a download, one gets an exact copy each and every time. If the disc is damaged, return and get a new fresh one usually in perfect condition. Throw in a silver coaster, press play and enjoy 30-72 minutes of tunes. If you are into digital files...you are limited only by the storage capacity of your computer.
Getting into vinyl = dealing with higher priced new albums/reissuesd. It equals dirty/scratched records when buying used and we haven't even touched on cleaning them.
Getting into vinyl = dealing with fragile cartridges, pairing them up with an arm and turntable and then throwing in a phono stage if your preamp doesn't already have one.
Getting into vinyl = dealing with storing large heavy discs and when playing them, getting up at best every 20 minutes before you have to switch sides.
Getting into vinyl also = access to 1 billion pressed discs far more than RBCDs and it also means exposure to never again recorded music. Gems you can only get on those large black discs.
Getting into vinyl = complete access to your music the way you want when you want. No DRM thank you! If you need to back them up...hook up the system to your computer and record away!
Getting into vinyl = enjoying liner notes without a magnifying glass and beautiful artwork on a large scale.
Getting into vinyl = a tactile experience with your musical collection, something digital in all forms has stripped from the user. With increased ease of use comes a detachment for the user. One gets a sterile experience. Some appreciate this some don't.
Getting into vinyl = what many consider better sound. Analogue is often defined as organic, flowing, life-like or real. It is warm and natural and better than anything in the digital realm. There is a reason why most if not all high end digital device manufacturers advertise that their player of the minute sounds more like vinyl.
Getting into vinyl = access to TONS of music for very cheap. Despite the fact that many new albums cost a lot, there is no doubt that used vinyl is often pennies per album and if one has a discerning eye, you won't get burned with a bum disc.
Getting into vinyl is worth it for many and worth it was to me and still is. I appreciate vinyl more but sadly I listen mostly to digital files or cds because of the convenience factor and time constraints.