I’m not sure what my favorite part of collecting vinyl records is, but it’s definitely either the expense or the inconvenience. As our family’s record collection has grown over the years, so has my love and nostalgia for the scratches and pops I can’t get on Spotify (though I share just as much love for my Spotify playlists as I do for my collection on Discogs). There are lots of Record Stores in and around Austin, so check the list to find the best place near you for crate digging!
Downtown
Waterloo Records
600 N Lamar Blvd
An Austin fixture since 1982, Waterloo Records on 6th and Lamar has 6400 square feet of records, cassettes, CDs, and novelty items. It’s been named one of the US’s best record stores by both Buzzfeed and Spin.
Big Henry’s Vinyl & Gifts
305 E 5th St
A small retail shop inside Antone’s, Big Henry’s specializes in rare, original vinyl pressings of soul, funk, blues and rare groove and carries classic Antone’s apparel and merchandise.
Antone’s Record Shop
2928 Guadalupe
For a bigger selection on Antone’s gear, head a bit north to Antone’s Record shop on 29th and Guadalupe. Antone’s works hard to promote Texas artists and regularly hosts in-store events and release parties.
South Austin
End of an Ear
4304 Clawson Rd
End of an Ear has grown in size and popularity from its original South First location, and has a large selection of records and record playing equipment. It also boasts a robust online store for those who want to support local stores without in-person crate digging.
Turntable Records
1903 S 1st St B
This modest shop for records, CDs, and DJ gear specializes in Tejano and Conjunto music, Latin Hip-Hop and Freestyle. Hours vary, so check their Facebook page for the most up-to-date information.
East Austin
BLK Vinyl
2505 E 6th Suite F
Located in East Austin where 6th street ends, BLK Vinyl has been a source for used and collectible records since 2018. They’ve begun curating their collection to include contemporary and local artists for the kids and locavores.
Drinks Records
2001 E Cesar Chavez
Drinks Records is the vinyl-shilling half of Drinks Records & Lounge. Open 4-midnight Tuesday-Sunday, it’s a great place to grab a drink and dig through their selection of records, record players, stickers, patches, and shirts.
North Austin
Love Wheel Records
2015 Justin Ln Suite 116
This small neighborhood shop just celebrated its 2nd birthday in the Crestview area. It sells new and used vinyl LPs, along with a curated selection of vinyl 45s, CDs, books, and other music-related items.
Breakaway Records
211 W North Loop Blvd
Open 12-7 every day, this North Loop indie shop boasts a choice selection of vinyl records, tapes, stereos, and turntables. Check their event schedule for musician launch parties and showcases.
