My journey into record collecting began in childhood, when I developed a deep love for Bollywood music. I remember having an AKAI cassette player, which was a constant companion. As I grew older, life’s various priorities meant I couldn’t always afford to indulge in my musical desires. Despite this, I always held on to the dream of one day owning a gramophone (which we called a ‘vinyl player’ back in the '90s). The unique sound and character of vinyl had a magnetic pull on me. As I got older and my musical tastes expanded, I discovered legendary artists and bands like Queen, The Beatles, Elvis Presley, The Animals, Led Zeppelin, and Lynyrd Skynyrd. This exposure only deepened my passion for vinyl records and solidified my desire to collect. Finally, in 2024, I felt it was the right time to make that dream a reality and purchase my own gramophone, marking the start of my vinyl collection journey.

AT-LP60X + HK Soundsticks 4

As someone who is also just beginning my collection, I can share my current approach. I plan to buy one record per month, giving myself the time to really absorb and appreciate each addition. It's also a good idea to start with records from your favorite artists. While vinyl can be a bit pricey, it’s helpful to weigh the cost against how much you truly love that artist’s work before making a decision. Here’s a tip: If friends or family are looking for gift ideas, suggest a vinyl record. It’s a thoughtful gift that both you and they can enjoy, making it a win-win. Lastly, be mindful of your spending—it’s easy to get caught up in the excitement, but vinyl collecting can be quite addictive!