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and experience from your vinyl records.

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Sound Matters: Your Online Vinyl Record Magazine

Cut Through The Jargon. Spin More Records.

Hey! I’m Marc from Sound Matters (that’s me holding the copy of Aladdin Sane at my local record store.
 
Welcome to the Sound Matters community where all about regaining a more authentic music experience. We believe in the vinyl format as the best way to own music and experience music. Audiences are more invested in music when they own it physically, and this ultimately leads to a more enriched music culture.
 
After completing a BSc Hons degree in Music Technology and spending the best part of ten years working for the audio brand Shure, I went full time sharing my experience and expertise to help vinyl enthusiasts and the wider music community get the most from their vinyl records and listening experience.
 
Subscribe to and enjoy the best tips tricks and features to enhance your love of music – especially on vinyl.
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HOW CAN WE HELP?

Record Cleaning GuidesDirty Records Spoil the Vibe!
Clean Records Sound Better!
The best record cleaning advice
Record Storage GuidesProtect Your Investment
Look After Your Records
Store them safely
Getting Started with VinylStart spinning records today!
Vinyl Guides for Beginners
Start your new vinyl hobby
Vinyl Gear Buyer GuidesThe best sound at any budget
Make an informed choice
Choose the right HiFi gear for you
Product ReviewsGear under the spotlight
Trusted Reviews
Life's too short for lousy gear!
Vinyl Record MerchBe a part of the analog revolution
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What our subscribers say:

"This is the BEST LP-care website. . .Bar-none! Thank you Sound Matters!"
Will

"Just wanted to say thanks for the valuable service you provide to the vinyl community. After almost 20 years, I pulled my vinyl from storage, purchased a new turntable and connected to my soundbar (also a new purchase). I found your site and use you exclusively for all my vinyl needs, purchased a record cleaner system from GrooveWasher and cork turntable mat based on your articles and recommendations. Thanks again and keep up the great work!"

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I tried to research humidity and record storage many times (I live in a really wet region) and didn’t find any real help. You guys are always the best."

Carlo

AS SEEN IN...

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Far from being yesterday's fading, forgotten format, vinyl records have survived and flourished as the music medium of choice for not only baby-boomers, but all ages. Every record a collector acquires comes with a story of its own, and recent events prompted many vinylholics, including Graham Sharpe, to look more closely at their reasons for collecting, take stock of existing collections and rediscover old favourites.

"Quite simply, they are desirable items - beautiful and artistic.
The great tradition of creative and artistic expression through the vinyl medium continues, and complements the digital age."

Marc Henshall - Sound Matters
May 14, 2025

Win a GrooveWasher Record Cleaning Kit with Custom Sound Matters Logo

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April 30, 2025

Time to Upgrade Your Vinyl Protection: Inner Sleeve Options from Vinyl Storage Solutions

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April 16, 2025

HumminGuru S-DUO PRO Review: Genius or Gimmick?

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April 3, 2025

Top Rules for Record Collecting

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April 3, 2025

MM PRO: The Sub $1000 Phono Preamp You Need to Hear

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OUR LATEST YOUTUBE VIDEOS

Whether you're a new collector or a seasoned digger, this guide will help you avoid rookie mistakes and make the most of every vinyl haul. From learning key visual inspection techniques to a clever hack for spotting hidden scuffs and scratches when shopping online, there's something for every record collector in this guide to shopping for used records. It's time to go used record shopping the smart way to pick up those previously loved gems and bargains. Recommended Record Cleaning Gear (AAL=Amazing Affiliate Link): ____________________________________________ GrooveWasher Mondo Record Cleaning Kit (Code: SOUNDMATTERS10 for 10% Off): https://www.groovewasher.com/collections/cleaning-kits/products/the-big-groovewasher-bundle-save-10 HumminGuru Affordable Ultrasonic Cleaning Machine (AAL): https://geni.us/humminguru Degritter High-End Ultrasonic Record Cleaner: https://degritter.com/ Pro-Ject VC-E2 Vacuum Record Cleaning Machine (AAL): https://geni.us/vc-e2-record-cleaner Full Record Cleaning Guide on the Sound Matters website for more gear and tips: https://www.yoursoundmatters.com/clean-vinyl-records/ Patreon: ____________________________________________ https://www.patreon.com/soundmatters Other Partner/Sponsor Discounts: _________________________________________________________________ GrooveWasher (Use code: SOUNDMATTERS10 for 10% Off) https://www.groovewasher.com/ Twelve Inch (Use code: SOUNDMATTERS10 for 10% Off) https://twelve-inch.com/ Vinyl Storage Solutions (VSS) sleeves: (Use code SOUNDMATTERS10): https://vinylstoragesolutions.ca/soundmatters Fosi Audio Gear (Use Code SOUNDMATTERS15 for 15% OFF): https://fosiaudioshop.com?sca_ref=7994276.7tbgvhaeY1 Soundeck Dampening Products (Use code SOUNDMATTERS10): https://soundeck.bigcartel.com Vinyl Pursuit - Ultrasonic Cleaned Vintage Vinyl: (Use Code VPSOUND12 for $12 OFF AND Grab a FREE Album from their extensive bargain bin selection for Orders $75+ CAD): https://vinylpursuit.com/ #VinylCommunity #Audiophile #VinylRecord #recordcollector #recordshopping #recordstore
How to Shop for Used Records: Pro Tips for Better Hauls
When it comes to buying records, I’m sure we can all agree, it’s not always a walk in the park. The continuous hunt for vinyl-nirvana is a never-ending pilgrimage that lasts a lifetime. It seems we all develop buying preferences over the years, and your list of rules will undoubtedly differ from mine. Below is a list of my general guidelines for buying vinyl records, and I’d love to hear your additional advice in the comments section below: Patreon: ____________________________________________ https://www.patreon.com/soundmatters Other Partner/Sponsor Discounts: _________________________________________________________________ GrooveWasher (Use code: SOUNDMATTERS10 for 10% Off) https://www.groovewasher.com/ Twelve Inch (Use code: SOUNDMATTERS10 for 10% Off) https://twelve-inch.com/ Vinyl Storage Solutions (VSS) sleeves: (Use code SOUNDMATTERS10): https://vinylstoragesolutions.ca/soundmatters Fosi Audio Gear (Use Code SOUNDMATTERS15 for 15% OFF): https://fosiaudioshop.com?sca_ref=7994276.7tbgvhaeY1 Soundeck Dampening Products (Use code SOUNDMATTERS10): https://soundeck.bigcartel.com Vinyl Pursuit - Vintage Vinyl Online: (Use code SOUNDMATTERS15): https://vinylpursuit.com/ #VinylCommunity #Audiophile #VinylRecord #recordcollector #recordcare
The Unwritten Rules of Record Collecting
✅ Vinyl Storage Solutions (VSS) sleeves: (Use code SOUNDMATTERS10): ✅ https://vinylstoragesolutions.ca/soundmatters Are your current record sleeves truly protecting your vinyl? It might be time for an upgrade! In this video, I showcase seven inner record sleeve options from Vinyl Storage Solutions (VSS). From traditional rice-paper sleeves to advanced crystal clear options with or without flaps for extra protection. As my preferred sleeve supplier, they offer the best ways to protect your precious vinyl collection from scratches, static, and wear. We'll compare each option, highlighting their pros and cons, so you can choose the perfect sleeve solution for your records. Patreon: ____________________________________________ https://www.patreon.com/soundmatters Other Partner/Sponsor Discounts: _________________________________________________________________ GrooveWasher (Use code: SOUNDMATTERS10 for 10% Off) https://www.groovewasher.com/ Twelve Inch (Use code: SOUNDMATTERS10 for 10% Off) https://twelve-inch.com/ Fosi Audio Gear (Use Code SOUNDMATTERS15 for 15% OFF): https://fosiaudioshop.com?sca_ref=7994276.7tbgvhaeY1 Soundeck Dampening Products (Use code SOUNDMATTERS10): https://soundeck.bigcartel.com Vinyl Pursuit - Vintage Vinyl Online: (Use code SOUNDMATTERS15): https://vinylpursuit.com/ #VinylCommunity #Audiophile #VinylRecord #recordcollector #recordcare
Time to Ditch Your Old Record Sleeves? 7 Options from VSS
Is the HumminGuru S-DUO PRO the ultimate turntable accessory you've been missing, or just another audiophile gimmick? In this detailed review, I put HumminGuru's innovative ultrasonic stylus cleaner and digital tracking force gauge to the test. We explore the new upgrades from the previous S-DUO model, including rechargeable batteries, built-in storage, and improved usability. Most importantly, we examine whether ultrasonic stylus cleaning really delivers better results than traditional stylus brushes and gels. If you're serious about getting the best sound quality from your vinyl setup, ensuring accurate tracking force and maintaining a spotless stylus are key. Could this compact, dual-function tool be your solution? Patreon: ____________________________________________ https://www.patreon.com/soundmatters Product Link: ______________________________________________________________ HumminGuru S-DUO Pro on Amazon (affiliate link): https://geni.us/s-duo-pro HumminGuru S-DUO Pro at Turntable Lab (affiliate link): https://www.turntablelab.com/products/humminguru-s-duo-pro-ultrasonic-stylus-cleaner-cartridge-pressure-gauge?aff=56089 Cartridge Compatibility list: https://humminguru.com/blogs/news/humminguru-s-duo-cartridge-compatibility-list Partner/Sponsor Discounts: _________________________________________________________________ GrooveWasher (Use code: SOUNDMATTERS10 for 10% Off) https://www.groovewasher.com/ Twelve Inch (Use code: SOUNDMATTERS10 for 10% Off) https://twelve-inch.com/ Vinyl Storage Solutions (VSS) sleeves: (Use code SOUNDMATTERS10): https://vinylstoragesolutions.ca/soundmatters Fosi Audio Gear (Use Code SOUNDMATTERS15 for 15% OFF): https://fosiaudioshop.com?sca_ref=7994276.7tbgvhaeY1 Soundeck Dampening Products (Use code SOUNDMATTERS10): https://soundeck.bigcartel.com Vinyl Pursuit - Vintage Vinyl Online: (Use code SOUNDMATTERS15): https://vinylpursuit.com/ #VinylCommunity #Audiophile #VinylRecord #recordcollector #recordcare
HumminGuru S-DUO PRO Genius or Gimmick? (With Microscope Results)
I’ve teamed up with Twelve Inch for your chance to win FOUR record adaptors. ENTER HERE: https://www.yoursoundmatters.com/competition-win-a-twelve-inch-original-invisible-vinyl-wall-display/ These adaptors are perfect for displaying picture discs on a wall to deck out your listening space. Winner announced this Record Store Day. Best of luck to all who enter!
Win FOUR Record Display Adaptors - Deck Out Your Listening Space #vinyl #competition #vinylrevival
Were recordings better before would could endlessly redo takes and make absolutely PERFECT records? In many ways, I think so. The art of direct-to-disc vinyl or direct to acetate recordings can help us abandon the temptation of perfection and return to capturing a moment.
Human Error: The Lost Magic in Modern Music Recordings
Ever heard of direct-to-disc vinyl and wondered what makes it so special? In this video, I break down exactly what direct-to-disc recording is, how it differs from traditional methods, and why some audiophiles swear by its superior sound quality. Live to vinyl, direct-to-disc, or direct-to-acetate refer to the same process, which as they suggest, is the practice of recording directly to a vinyl-disc cutting lathe without first recording to magnet tape or digital storage. Patreon: ____________________________________________ https://www.patreon.com/soundmatters Video Examples of the Process in Action: ________________________________________________________________ Third Man Records - Seasick Steve Live to Vinyl: https://youtu.be/eOx6BcWQgno?si=mmlA-vUYp8-0NAtk Third Man Records (World's Fastest Record): https://youtu.be/xPGK84Yuihc?si=4v5h5gPk4Ai5pODs Partner/Sponsor Discounts: _________________________________________________________________ GrooveWasher (Use code: SOUNDMATTERS10 for 10% Off) https://www.groovewasher.com/ Twelve Inch (Use code: SOUNDMATTERS10 for 10% Off) https://twelve-inch.com/ Vinyl Storage Solutions (VSS) sleeves: (Use code SOUNDMATTERS10): https://vinylstoragesolutions.ca/soundmatters Fosi Audio Gear (Use Code SOUNDMATTERS15 for 15% OFF): https://fosiaudioshop.com?sca_ref=7994276.7tbgvhaeY1 Soundeck Dampening Products (Use code SOUNDMATTERS10): https://soundeck.bigcartel.com Vinyl Pursuit - Vintage Vinyl Online: (Use code SOUNDMATTERS15): https://vinylpursuit.com/ #VinylCommunity #Audiophile #VinylRecord
Why Direct-to-Disc Vinyl Sounds Incredible
Taken from my full video on the top record storage mistakes. The dangers of storing records in large horizontal piles. This can lead to warping or even further damage due to excess pressure. For a complete list of all the other record storage faux pas, watch the complete length video.
Stop Stacking! How to ACTUALLY Store Your Vinyl Records #recordcollector #vinyl #vinylrecords
In this review, I dive deep into the Michael Fidler MM Pro-the sub-$1000 phono preamp that's quietly become my go-to reference for moving magnet cartridges. With its exceptional transparency, ultra-quiet performance, and thoughtful features (including a Mono Switch and Low-Frequency Crossfeed), this hand-built phono stage could be exactly what your vinyl setup has been missing. Join me as I explore what makes the MM Pro stand out from the crowd, how it compares to other phono preamps, and why I keep returning to it again and again. Could this be the ultimate upgrade for your turntable? Watch now and find out! Patreon: ____________________________________________ https://www.patreon.com/soundmatters Links: _______________________________________________________________________ MM Pro Product Page: https://michaelfidler.com/products/pro/mm-pro-moving-magnet-phono-stage/ Mono Switch V.S No Mono Switch Audio Shootout: https://www.patreon.com/posts/benefits-of-mono-105625585?utm_medium=clipboard_copy&utm_source=copyLink&utm_campaign=postshare_creator&utm_content=join_link Video on cheating with noise numbers: https://youtu.be/MCW-LeXAw38?si=eXVq7xQbpb8A6TX8 Partner/Sponsor Discounts: _________________________________________________________________ GrooveWasher (Use code: SOUNDMATTERS10 for 10% Off) https://www.groovewasher.com/ Twelve Inch (Use code: SOUNDMATTERS10 for 10% Off) https://twelve-inch.com/ Vinyl Storage Solutions (VSS) sleeves: (Use code SOUNDMATTERS10): https://vinylstoragesolutions.ca/soundmatters Fosi Audio Gear (Use Code SOUNDMATTERS15 for 15% OFF): https://fosiaudioshop.com?sca_ref=7994276.7tbgvhaeY1 Soundeck Dampening Products (Use code SOUNDMATTERS10): https://soundeck.bigcartel.com Vinyl Pursuit - Vintage Vinyl Online: (Use code SOUNDMATTERS15): https://vinylpursuit.com/ #VinylCommunity #Audiophile #VinylRecords #Turntable #PhonoPreamp #MichaelFidler #SoundMatters
The Sub $1000 Phono Preamp You Need to Hear
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Vinyl on Your Wall

Twelve Inch products allow you to create a stunning and personal record gallery on the wall without any frames or visible parts. Their mission is to nurture and grow the love for vinyl records, by providing a flexible and elegant way to create amazing record galleries in the home.​
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Vintage Vinyl without the Hassle

Unlike most used record stores and Discogs purchases, all the records you buy from vinylpursuit.com are restored using an ultrasonic record cleaning machine before shipping to you in brand-new premium inner and outer sleeves.​