The vinyl record is alive and kicking. More than 70 years after its launch, and at a time when streaming services are fast replacing physical media, the vinyl LP's enduring appeal is, frankly, astonishing. And yet here we are.
Not only does vinyl's popularity endure, sales are actually increasing, with vinyl revenues at their highest for 30 years - the same can't be said for CDs or digital downloads. It's no wonder initiatives such as Record Store Day, which takes place this Saturday, have captured the attention of a reinvigorated, record-buying public.
Everywhere from supermarkets to clothes shops have taken to stocking the latest vinyl releases and even turntables, as music fans come round to the idea of paying to own something that offers a little more long-term appeal than a download or stream. Similarly, many people are dusting-off old decks, prompted by vinyl reissues and new releases, as well as brand new hi-fi products aimed at people who want to incorporate vinyl into their music systems.
We've been talking about turntables longer than most, so we thought it only right that we celebrated Record Store Day 2019 with a week of special features and reviews. And we're off to a flying-start with one of the best Technics turntables we've ever heard. Keep your eyes peeled for fresh reviews and features every day this week...
Saturday
- 12 of the best Rega turntables of all time
- 10 of the best-sounding vinyl records
- 13 debut decks from iconic turntable brands
Friday
- How to add a turntable to your existing music system
- 12 of the best Pro-Ject turntables of all time
- 10 tips for buying second-hand vinyl
- 25 record stores to visit before you die
- 10 of the most collectable (and valuable) vinyl records
- Cambridge Audio Alva TT review
Thursday
- A history of the strangest vinyl records ever made
- 3 great music systems for playing vinyl
- A brief history of the turntable and vinyl records
- Audio-Technica AT-LP60XBT review
Wednesday
- Best phono preamps 2019: Budget to high-end
- 18 songs that sound their best on vinyl
- Record Store Day: How a vinyl record is cut at Abbey Road Studios
- Crosley RSD3 is a limited edition 3-inch turntable
Tuesday
- Dual CS 505-4 review
- 12 of the weirdest turntables ever made
- How to digitise your vinyl collection
- How does a vinyl record make a sound
- The easiest turntable upgrade you’ll ever make