If you're thinking about starting a record collection, you might be asking yourself: why bother? More than anything, records are cultural artifacts. They're reflections of what matters to you—snapshots of your identity, values, and the moments that have shaped your life. They are part of your life story. An album can mark a turning point, commemorate a special occasion, or simply resonate deeply with who you are.

This is something the streaming generation often misses. Streaming is convenient, yes—but it’s also ephemeral. That beloved artist or album could disappear tomorrow. Tracks are shuffled, skipped, forgotten. The experience may just be disposable.

Put down the remote. Let yourself experience the album, just as the artists intended. Skipping through tracks? That’s an insult to the music. The experience of CDs come closer, but they often fall short—both in sound and presentation.

Vinyl, on the other hand, offers something special. The feel of the sleeve, the design of the artwork, the liner notes—you're holding a piece of the artist’s world. If have a gatefold album then this is a treasure trove of detail, giving you context, lyrics, stories, and insights into the musicianship behind the sound. (or it could just be a pretty picture)

And then, of course, there’s the record itself. A format that's been around for nearly 70 years yet still feels magical. The weight of the vinyl, the information on the label—it all builds anticipation. Those impossibly small grooves hold a world of sound, a gateway to something special.

And the sound is what it’s all about. From the first drop of the needle to the runout groove, you’re immersed. It’s an occasion—whether you’re listening again to an old favourite or discovering a new artist with the promise of something transcendent. Vinyl connects with the brain in ways other formats don’t. It’s warm, textured, human.

You might have a spare afternoon or just enough time for one side. Either way, take it. Explore. Listen deeply.

And let’s not forget buying new vinyl supports the artists. In an age where streaming pays next to nothing, owning a record is one of the best ways to support musicians—especially emerging or independent ones. Concerts are another vital way to show your support. The musicians, engineers, designers, producers, have put in the hard work and earned our respect. From a part of their life to ours.

So yes—there are plenty of reasons to buy vinyl in 2025. This isn’t just a retro trend. It's a cultural movement—a way of preserving, honouring, and truly experiencing the music we love. Sales have been rising steadily for over 15 years, driven not by nostalgia alone, but by a hunger for something real. 

Vinyl prices have increased due to higher production and shipping costs, but that doesn’t mean the artists are getting richer. If you're on a budget, make a list of your must-haves and start there. It’s a serious hobby, one that can easily draw you in—but it rewards you with joy, connection, and meaning.

One last thought- a Vinyl album can last a lifetime, or two, with care. At OnVinyl we have many an album 50+ years old and still sounding wonderful. How many hands has it been through? How many generations of listeners have experienced it? Makes you think, doesn’t it?

All the best David