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Anna's Survival Guide to Record/CD Conventions.


For a while there it looked as if vinyl was making a slow fade from the scene. In reaction to this, people started
to pull that old vinyl out and appreciate its unique sound qualities. They wondered where to get more or in most
cases, where to find more.

Well, here’s where record conventions come in. I first discovered them on , of all places, the radio. It was a
small venue, a conference room full of tables at the Embassy Suites. But what a room, stack after stack of vinyl.
Some I never even heard of , there were imports and those albums I hadn’t been able to find. I must of blown over
a hundred bucks that first time.

I did a lot of things wrong at first, so this is why I thought I would give a few tips to those of you who find
yourselves at a convention.

First, limit how much money you take. For some of you, if your short some bucks, try trading those fad
of the month albums you have.

Look around. You have to remember these are salespeople, they will try to compete for your business.
One table will have that album, but the next table might have it at a lower price.

Don’t be afraid to ask if they have a certain band. It’ll help save time digging through piles of
Olivia Newton-John and Yanni.

Set those alarm clocks and get there early. The best stuff goes fast.

Don’t always listen to the sales guy. Some don’t know what they are talking about. Its those guys
that will try and sell you a so called original for $20. , or a damaged poster for more than its worth.

Take your CD player. If you are buying used CDs, you might want to hear what your paying for.

When in doubt, take a card. Most of the time they will have a business card on where they can be reached.

A business card is also handy, when you don’t have enough money. If you still have your heart set on
getting that record, they be happy to ship it to you later for a few extra dollars.

Well, that should keep you out of trouble for now. Have fun increasing your record/CD collection.
Have fun meeting new people and talking about music. Later!

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This page was last updated September 27, 1996.

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