VINYL RECORDS AS GIFTS: HOW TO CHOOSE WISELY? A GUIDE FOR COLLECTORS' FAMILIES
Introduction
Gift-giving is more than just a holiday obligation. It's an opportunity to get to know our loved ones better. It's not about quick questions before the holidays—it's about showing genuine interest in others throughout the year.
Christmas can be the beginning of a beautiful adventure: discovering the people around us, their passions, dreams, and interests. This isn't just about vinyl collectors—it's about everyone who has that spark inside them (and everyone does!).
When we ask about favorite music, books, or recipes, we discover new facets of people we thought we knew. Sometimes surprising, sometimes touching. Always fascinating.
So before you start looking for a gift, ask yourself: "How well do I know the person I want to give it to?" Then start exploring their world. Don't rush. You have the whole year.
Whether it's June or five minutes before Christmas, this practical guide on choosing vinyl records as gifts will definitely come in handy!
Listen to the Podcast on this topic:
Dear Mr. Vinyl...
Every year, I get the same questions. "Mr. Vinyl, I'm looking for a record for my boyfriend, but I don't know what to choose." "Something for my dad who listens to rock." "Mr. Vinyl, need a record for my boss who likes prog rock." And so on and so forth.
I thought it would be worth writing a guide about choosing records as gifts, especially vinyl ones. This guide is for people who know nothing about vinyl. It's for those facing the challenging task of giving such a present.
Because there's something important you should know. According to consumer law, records cannot be returned once unwrapped. The law specifically states:
"Article 38, point 9 of the Consumer Rights Act states that the right to withdraw from a contract concluded outside the business premises or at a distance does not apply to contracts where the subject of the service is audio or visual recordings or computer programs delivered in sealed packaging if the packaging has been opened after delivery."
What does this mean?
Simple—CD or vinyl records can't be returned once removed from their original packaging. If you miss the mark with your choice, tough luck!
You're buying a record for your dad, boyfriend, mom, or grandpa. Maybe it's for grandma or your girlfriend. Sometimes for your boss. Up to this point, everything's fine.
Then comes the moment of truth. They tear off the cellophane, paper, or cardboard. Only two things can happen: joy or disaster. For each option, we have several variants:
Joy:
-WOW! I've been looking for this record for years!
-Awesome! The latest album by... [recipient's favorite artist]!
Cool, I've been dreaming about this record!
You really know me, you know what I like!
Disaster:
Unwraps and says nothing.
Unwraps and says nothing, but disappointment is visible.
Says: "I already have this record" and silence follows.
Shows excitement but after listening reveals they don't like it.
Doesn't have the record but isn't happy because it's metal and they like country.
What Vinyl Record to Give as a Gift?
A successful gift is straightforward—the recipient is happy, and we can sleep peacefully. The failure is worse. At best, we feel embarrassed. At worst—our relationship with that person might deteriorate. Collectors are demanding recipients.
Who Are Vinyl Records For?
Buying a record is a challenging task. You can handle it. You need to consider several important things before making a purchase:
- What do we know about this person?
- Do they listen to vinyl, CDs, or streaming?
- What music do they like?
- What records do they have in their collection?
- Are they an audio equipment enthusiast?
- Do they simply love music?
If we don't know the answers to any of these questions, we're walking on thin ice. In family matters, it's simpler. As with family—things tend to work out somehow.
It's trickier with bosses or colleagues from school/work. Here, our relationship and reputation are at stake. Sometimes even our position. I worked in an advertising agency. My boss loved vinyl. Everyone looked to me hopefully when choosing a gift.
Not everyone has a vinyl expert at their company. You have to manage on your own. Therefore, I advise:
First, Ask:
This is very important! But beware! Don't ask about someone's collection or musical taste three days before the holidays. That's too suspicious. Start much earlier. If it's already late, gather information through intermediaries.
Engage in getting to know the person you want to give music to. It's a real challenge. I know collectors—they have their preferences.
Even if you miss with the record, show that you tried. It's easier to swallow then. You can say: "With your extensive interests, it's hard to pick the perfect gift." That'll stroke a collector's ego.
Check Their Collection
In families, this is a simple task. But watch out! If you don't know vinyl, be careful. Collectors protect their collections, and it's easy to arouse suspicion.
Record shelves often display warnings. "Unauthorized use will be punished." "My collection is my fortress." "Keep away."
If you're sure you can, write down artists and titles. This information will be useful later. If the collection counts hundreds or thousands of records, it's really tough. In such situations, I'd simply ask. However, it's worth doing this well in advance.
With work colleagues, it's harder. Our reputation is at stake. There's no room for chance. Who knows what might depend on it?
Let me tell you my story. I was asked to buy a record for the boss. I asked his daughter about his collection. We worked at the same company.
I browsed vinyl in the store with my phone at my ear. We checked titles from his collection together. It was great fun.
I knew prog rock would be a bull's eye. When I saw Steve Hackett's new album, I was sure of success. The boss patted me and said "BRAVISSIMO!"
Be Careful!
Nobody likes pushiness. Avoid frantic questions just before the holidays. Don't persistently interrogate relatives. Don't act chaotically.
In such an atmosphere, no gift will be successful. It's better to honestly admit your lack of knowledge. You can ask the person you want to give the gift to directly.
Better a satisfied but unsurprised recipient than a surprised but unsatisfied one.
Why Do I Need This Information?
Let's say you already have the basic data. You know someone:
invests in equipment
likes listening to vinyl
prefers jazz, funk, and soul
especially values Coltrane and Barry White
has specific records in their collection
cares about sound quality
With such knowledge, it's easier to choose a record in a store or online.
If you still don't know what to choose, this information will help the seller. I recommend visiting independent music stores. There, sellers know about SACD or MFSL formats.
For beginner collectors, discount store records might suffice. More sophisticated purchases will come with time. Note—don't buy your boss records from a discount store!
And If You Really Know Nothing?
Gift vouchers for record purchases are always an option. It's not the most elegant solution, and I personally don't support it. I believe it's better to show at least minimum engagement, display some interest, and possibly miss with the gift than hand someone a voucher in an envelope. This option is always there to consider, but while there's time and some willingness, it's worth trying. Nothing makes people happier than a gift given from the heart, with at least a bit of effort put into it. Then even if you miss, it's easier to handle.
Summary:
The conclusion is that it's worth taking an interest in other people. Whether they collect vinyl, postcards, or cooking recipes. Behind every hobby lies something deeper.
This isn't just about vinyl records. It's about getting to know another person. About listening to their stories. About sharing passions.
Simply take interest in your loved ones daily. Ask about their hobbies; deeper desires hide behind them. Listen to what they have to say. Then gift-giving will become natural and pleasant.
Because the best gift shows: "I know you. I listen to you. I'm interested in what's important to you."
And even if you don't hit the mark perfectly, the sincerity and engagement will be more valuable than the most expensive gift bought without thought.
Thank you and happy shopping!
Best regards,
Pan Winyl