7 Of Sydney’s Best Vinyl Stores For The Music Lover In Your Life

The extinction of old-school vinyl is a conversation of the past—it’s alive and well in Sydney/Eora, and it’s being played everywhere, from bedrooms to bars. 

Whether you are planning a day of flicking through vintage records, searching for a gift for the music lover in your life, or simply looking to break into the scene (and finally use that record player for more than home decor), here are Urban List’s top picks for the best vinyl stores in Sydney. 

Red Eye Records

143 York Street, Sydney CBD

Image credit: Red Eye Records | Instagram

Boasting the title of Sydney’s largest independent record store and one of Australia’s oldest, there’s a reason Red Eye Records is first on the list. Since its opening in 1981, this vinyl haven has operated out of its York Street location, helping both local and global customers find rare, out-of-print and unique Australian items. They stock all types of records, both new and old, and the staff are exclusively music experts—go ahead, quiz them on their knowledge. 

Insider Intel:

• Struggling with where to start? Browse through the staff picks section on their website for a seriously extensive list of titles and stress-free recommendations you can trust. 

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Bondi Records

258 Oxford Street, Bondi Junction

Image credit: Bondi Records | Instagram

This one is for the Eastern Suburbs locals who won’t trek it across Sydney for their vinyl fix—Bondi Records is located in the heart of the iconic beach suburb. And when a record store has been started by a self-proclaimed vinyl addict, you can only assume that the outcome will be a top-notch selection of music, and some seriously good customer service. 

This independent record store stocks new, exclusive, classic and hard-to-find vinyl records from a range of genres and eras, so safe to say they probably have what you are looking for. If not, they will reach out to their suppliers to fulfil the order—talk about dedication to the craft.

Insider Intel:

• Their vinyl club is a great, affordable way to build your collection—for just $60 a month, you can choose one record from their exclusive picks and have it delivered straight to your door.

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Utopia Records 

Lower Ground Floor/511 Kent Street
 

Better known as “the home of metal since 1978”, it’s safe to assume which genre you come looking for at Utopia Records. In the 80s and 90s, it was not uncommon to see members of groups like Iron Maiden and Alice In Chains wearing Utopia merch onstage—some of Australia’s better known metal groups even formed after meeting in the shop. 

As Australia’s largest Metal and Hard Rock specialists, and purveyors of niche metal lore, we trust they know what they are talking about. 

Insider Intel:

• If you miss the era of CDs, DVDs and Blu-rays, you’ll be able to find them here.

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Repressed Records

413 King Street, Newtown

Image credit: Repressed Records | Instagram

Whilst Newtown certainly boasts a few notable vinyl spots (and we’d expect no less), Repressed Records has a sense of contemporary newness that stands out among the crowd. Stocking Australian, imported and secondhand records, with an emphasis on independent and underground titles, you’ll be sure to come across names you aren’t hearing on the radio.

For the true vinyl nerds, this spot also stocks a curated selection of Japanese pressings—made using pure virgin vinyl, they are thought to have less surface noise and a higher sound quality. 

Insider Intel:

• Their monthly zine, Presser, is a real treat to read, whether you are an expert on records or not. Their staff rounds up the best listens of the month, alongside eloquent, detailed reviews. 

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Beatdisc Records

11/181 Church Street, Parramatta

Image credit: Beatdsic Records | Instagram

As the only independent music store that services Greater Western Sydney, Beatdisc has deep roots in Parramatta’s vinyl scene. Alongside a diverse array of new, used and rare vinyls, CDs and cassettes, this neighbourhood local often hosts live music and pop-up events. Whether you are commuting from the East or the Blue Mountains or headed for a side-quest on your lunch break, Beatdisc has something for everyone.

Insider Intel:

• You can find their list of rotating events on their website, where they often feature free live in-store performances. 

Learn more

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LazyThinking

380 New Canterbury Road, Dulwich Hill
 

This funky Inner West records store is based in a converted butcher’s shop, and functions as both a retail front and an award-winning live music venue. As a not-for-profit organisation, LazyThinking supports and promotes independent Australian artists at all stages of their careers. In terms of vinyl, think Australian indie-rock, hip-hop, metal, garage, hardcore and electronica—lesser known artists with a focus on some seriously experimental sounds. 

Insider Intel:

• If you weren’t yet convinced, this mash-up venue is also a diner—burgers, fries, bevs, and a side of next-level tunes.

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Sandy’s Music Centre

870 Pittwater Road, Dee Why

Image credit: Sandy's Music Store | Instagram

One of Australia’s oldest indie record stores (and Sydney’s oldest), Sandy’s Music Centre has been servicing the Northern Beaches vinyl scene for over 40 years. For those in-the-know music lovers who love to support an OG local spot, the storefront still boasts its original signage, and the phone number is only seven digits long. Expect a diverse selection of vinyls, CDs and collectables, great pricing, and a wealth of information from the long-time owners.

Insider Intel:

• Due to the owner’s worldwide industry contacts, they often stock albums unavailable from other Australian distributors.

Learn more

Main image credit: Repressed Records | Instagram

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