Younger participants often associate vinyl with nostalgia for a past they never experienced, reflecting a desire to live more deliberately and meaningfully. In contrast, older participants reflect on their lifelong passion for collecting and listening to vinyl.

Ritualistic behaviors associated with vinyl, such as meticulous cleaning and careful storage, reinforce a tactile connection with the music and enhance the overall appreciation of the vinyl experience. These rituals create a holistic and immersive listening experience that deepens the emotional and personal significance of vinyl collecting.

The perceived sound quality of vinyl, often characterized by its warmth and authenticity, is a major draw for collectors. Participants consistently emphasized the immersive and attentive listening experience facilitated by vinyl, contrasting it with the ease of skipping tracks on digital platforms, which they argue diminishes the depth of engagemen... See more

This sense of belonging and shared enthusiasm enriches the collecting experience and strengthens the vinyl market by fostering growth in consumption habits.

For younger collectors, social media plays a key role in their vinyl collecting practices. Many are drawn to the aesthetic and community aspects of vinyl, frequently sharing their latest acquisitions on platforms like Instagram and TikTok.

Nostalgia also plays a crucial role, particularly for Generation X collectors who rediscovered records from their youth. This connection to the past provides sentimental value that transcends the music itself, offering a sense of authenticity and social significance that is often lacking in digital formats.

The tangible nature of vinyl records significantly contributes to their appeal. Collectors emphasized the unique physical attributes of vinyl—such as artwork, liner notes, and the experience of handling and playing records—as more rewarding than other formats like cassettes, CDs, or streaming.

Many participants began their journey into vinyl collecting with a specific artist or album that ignited their passion. They often recalled a pivotal moment, such as discovering a new release or sifting through a family member's old records, which sparked their interest. This initial fascination often led to broader exploration, including attending... See more

Independent record stores are vital in the vinyl distribution landscape, offering local alternatives to global online services. Kjus (2016)

(link is external) highlights how these stores adapt by hosting unique events and leveraging Record Store Day to connect artists and fans. Despite digital competition, stores focusing on vinyl or alternative lo... See more