Ann Arbor Guide To: Starting Your Vinyl Collection

Vinyl collecting has made a massive comeback, and Ann Arbor is the perfect city to start your journey. With its deep musical roots, thriving arts scene, and incredible selection of record stores and thrift shops, there’s no shortage of places to dig for hidden gems. Whether you're looking for classic rock, jazz, hip-hop, or rare finds, here’s where you should start shopping locally to build your vinyl collection.

Diggers Records – A Vinyl Lover’s Paradise in Kerrytown

If you want an extensive selection of music spanning all genres, Diggers Records in Kerrytown is a must-visit. This independent record store is a haven for serious collectors and casual music lovers alike. Diggers is known for its well-curated collection, offering everything from funk and soul classics to modern indie releases. Their knowledgeable staff is always ready to help you find what you’re looking for—or introduce you to something new.

📍 Location: 120 E. Liberty St., Ann Arbor, MI 48104🌐 Website: diggersrecords.com

Encore Records – A Downtown Staple with Rich History

For over 60 years, Encore Records has been a cornerstone of Ann Arbor’s music scene. Located downtown, this legendary shop boasts a vast selection of vinyl, CDs, and even cassettes. Encore is famous for its deep crates of used records, meaning you can score incredible deals on classics and rare finds. Whether you're after jazz legends, punk rock essentials, or underground hip-hop, this shop is a goldmine for collectors.

📍 Location: 417 E. Liberty St., Ann Arbor, MI 48104🌐 Website: encorerecordsa2.com

Thrift Stores – Unexpected Vinyl Treasures

If you're looking for affordable records and love the thrill of the hunt, Ann Arbor's thrift stores are great places to dig.

Salvation Army – State Street

A rotating selection of vinyl means you never know what you’ll find—Motown classics, rock staples, or even obscure gems. Stop by frequently for the best finds!📍 Location: 1621 S. State St., Ann Arbor, MI 48104🌐 Website: salvationarmyusa.org

PTO Thrift Shop – South Industrial Hwy.

A hidden gem for budget-conscious collectors, PTO often stocks vinyl at unbeatable prices. You might stumble upon some rare treasures at a fraction of the cost.📍 Location: 2280 S. Industrial Hwy., Ann Arbor, MI 48104🌐 Website: ptothriftshop.org

Kiwanis Thrift Sale

Held on select days, Kiwanis is a fantastic spot to browse not only for records but also vintage stereo equipment and turntables. The selection varies, but it's worth checking out!📍 Location: 100 N. Staebler Rd., Suite C, Ann Arbor, MI 48103🌐 Website: kiwanissale.com

Final Tips for Starting Your Vinyl Collection

Visit Often – New records come in all the time, so frequent visits increase your chances of finding great deals.
Inspect Before You Buy – Check records for scratches and warping to ensure they’ll play well.
Ask for Recommendations – Store owners and fellow collectors are great resources for discovering new music.

Whether you’re a longtime music fan or just starting out, Ann Arbor has plenty of spots to help you build an incredible vinyl collection. Happy digging!

Got a favorite record shop in Ann Arbor? Drop a comment below and let us know!