Storage of records

Storing records: 8 golden rules

Records Playing records is a philosophy, listening to and collecting vinyl is a passion, looking after records a matter of course, right? Despite streaming and digital formats, “black gold” is on the rise again. Spending hours in record stores has always been a highlight of everyday DJ life, especially when there were no DVS systems.

Well, if there are only 20 records in the record trolley/rack, storage is not a problem. But when a three-, four- or even five-digit number of records accumulates over the decades, things start to look very different. Not forgetting the cleaning.

Yes, a record like this exudes a certain magic: Analog warmth, melancholic crackling and hissing – stop? Is that necessary? No, it doesn’t have to be. And that brings us right to the heart of the matter:

No less important is the correct setting of turntable and tonearm to protect the vinyl and optimize listening pleasure.

Tips for the correct storage of records:

1. Store in a dry and cool place: Avoid excessive heat and direct sunlight, as this can lead to deformation of the vinyl. A shady place is ideal to prevent damage. Also take care to avoid moisture, as this can lead to mold growth on the record sleeves.
2. Use inlays: Store your records in inlays, ideally lined to protect the vinyl from wear and tear. Replace dirty inlays in good time and make sure that the opening is facing upwards so that the record cannot fall out.
3. Vertical storage: Place the records vertically on the shelf to avoid warping. Alternatively, you can place the records between two smooth surfaces and weigh them down.
4. Use protective sleeves: Cover the record sleeves with clear transparent sleeves to protect them from damage. Carefully remove old stickers to protect the sleeves.
5. Handle the records carefully: Hold the record by the label and the side to avoid grease stains and to protect the record from damage.
6. Remove dust before playing: Clean the records with a cotton cloth or a carbon brush before playing to remove dust and avoid sound distortion. If necessary, you can also wash the records.
7. Clean the cartridge: Not only clean the records, but also the cartridge to ensure optimum playback quality. optimum playback quality playback quality.
8. Back in the sleeve: After playing, carefully put the record back in its sleeve to avoid dust deposits and to protect it from damage. Particularly valuable records should be digitized in order to preserve them for the long term.