In the digital age, the allure of tangible music formats has seen a resurgence, with vinyl records leading the charge. Singapore is no exception to this trend, boasting a thriving vinyl scene with a diverse selection of record stores catering to every taste and budget.
1. Retro Factory (Jalan Besar)
Retro Factory is a vinyl lover’s paradise, housing a massive collection of over 30,000 records. From indie rock to classic oldies, hip-hop to electronica, there’s something for everyone at this bustling store. With knowledgeable staff and regular live performances, Retro Factory is more than just a record store—it’s a vibrant community hub for music enthusiasts.
2. Hear Records (Waterloo Street)
For discerning collectors seeking rare and limited-edition vinyl, Hear Records is the place to go. This cozy store is known for its curated selection of imported records, handpicked by the passionate owner. Whether you’re searching for that elusive first pressing or a pristine copy of your favorite album, Hear Records is sure to have what you’re looking for.
3. Inokii Records (Telok Ayer Street)
Inokii Records is the go-to destination for dance music enthusiasts. Its spacious store is packed with a vast array of house, techno, and electronic music vinyl, both new and used. The store also hosts regular DJ events, giving customers a chance to hear the records they’re eyeing in action.
4. Swee Lee (Multiple Locations)
Swee Lee is the undisputed king of musical instruments and equipment in Singapore. While not primarily a vinyl store, Swee Lee has a respectable selection of records, spanning a wide range of genres. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned collector, you’re sure to find something to add to your collection at Swee Lee.
5. Vinyl Destination (Jalan Sultan)
If you’re looking for a more eclectic shopping experience, Vinyl Destination is worth checking out. This quaint store stocks a mix of vintage vinyl, modern releases, and collectibles. The store is known for its friendly and knowledgeable staff, always happy to recommend hidden gems or help you find that perfect album.
6. Record Mart (North Bridge Road)
A Singaporean institution for over 30 years, Record Mart is a must-visit for vinyl enthusiasts. The store’s vast collection encompasses every genre imaginable, from rock to pop, classical to jazz, and even Chinese and Malay music. With its affordable prices and friendly staff, Record Mart is a great place to start your vinyl journey.
7. Vinyl Spin (Joo Chiat Road)
Vinyl Spin is a hidden gem located in the charming Joo Chiat neighborhood. This cozy store specializes in indie and alternative rock vinyl, with a focus on local Singaporean releases. The store also hosts regular live performances and DJ sets, creating a vibrant and welcoming atmosphere for music lovers.
8. Genki (Aliwal Street)
For fans of Japanese music, Genki is the place to go. This specialized store stocks a comprehensive selection of vinyl records, CDs, and DVDs from Japan. From classic rock to anime soundtracks, Genki has everything you need to satisfy your J-pop and J-rock cravings.
9. HMV (Orchard Road)
While HMV may be better known for its CD and DVD selection, the Orchard Road flagship store also has a respectable vinyl section. With a focus on mainstream releases and popular genres, HMV is a great place to pick up the latest vinyl releases or find affordable copies of classic albums.
10. Bugis Junction (Multiple Record Stores)
Bugis Junction is a shopper’s paradise, and vinyl enthusiasts won’t be disappointed. The shopping mall is home to several record stores, including Retro Vinyl, Vinyl Lovers, and The Music Room. Whether you’re looking for mainstream releases or rare collectibles, you’re sure to find something to your liking.
- Do your research: Before you hit the stores, take some time to explore online marketplaces and forums to get an idea of the current market value for the records you’re interested in. This will help you avoid overpaying and ensure you get a fair deal.
- Shop around: Don’t limit yourself to just one store. Visit multiple record stores to compare prices and selection. You may be surprised by what you can find at different stores.
- Inspect the records carefully: Before purchasing a record, take the time to examine it closely for any scratches, pops, or other imperfections. It’s better to pay a little more for a pristine copy than to end up with a damaged record.
- Ask for recommendations: The staff at most record stores are knowledgeable and passionate about music. Don’t hesitate to ask for recommendations if you’re looking for something specific or just want to discover new music.
- Be patient: Building a vinyl collection takes time and effort. Don’t get discouraged if you don’t find exactly what you’re looking for right away. Keep browsing and be persistent, and you’re sure to find the perfect records to add to your collection.
| Condition | Price Range |
|---|---|
| New | SGD 30 – SGD 100 |
| Used (Good) | SGD 15 – SGD 50 |
| Used (Fair) | SGD 5 – SGD 20 |
| Rare/Collectible | SGD 100+ |
| Album | Artist | Number Sold |
|---|---|---|
| Abbey Road | The Beatles | 5,000+ |
| Dark Side of the Moon | Pink Floyd | 4,000+ |
| Thriller | Michael Jackson | 3,000+ |
| Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band | The Beatles | 2,000+ |
| The Greatest Hits | Queen | 1,000+ |
| Store | Genre |
|---|---|
| Retro Factory | All genres |
| Hear Records | Rare and limited-edition records |
| Inokii Records | Dance music |
| Swee Lee | Wide range of genres |
| Vinyl Destination | Eclectic mix of genres |
| Record Mart | All genres |
| Vinyl Spin | Indie and alternative rock |
| Genki | Japanese music |
| HMV | Mainstream releases and popular genres |
| Label | Focus |
|---|---|
| Inokii Records | Dance music |
| Native Records | Singaporean independent music |
| Cherry Disc Records | Vinyl reissues of Asian pop classics |
| Hup Lee Records | Chinese and Malay music |
| Syndicate Records | Underground hip-hop and electronica |
