Guide to Tucson's Record Shops to Sell Collection

In the bustling downtown area of Tucson, AZ, there are approximately a dozen music stores ready to welcome vinyl enthusiasts and collectors. Each store has its unique approach to purchasing collections from individuals. Whether you're interested in selling a collection you've built over the years or simply want to part with a few records, selecting the right vinyl buyer can simplify your experience. 

Here's an overview based on specific criteria to assist you in finding the best music stores in Tucson.

Old Paint Records

address: 76 W Washington St, Tucson, AZ 85701

Old Paint Records is your go-to destination if you're passionate about rock, jazz, and soul music, especially from the vibrant eras of the 60s and 70s. They have a particular fondness for classic rock bands and artists like The Beatles and Pink Floyd, as well as the more underground scenes represented by The Stooges. When it comes to condition, they prefer vinyl that's in good shape and covers free from mold. Although they've moved away from dealing in 78s, they've recently developed an interest in Hawaiian 78s.

For those looking to sell or have their collections evaluated, Old Paint Records recommends making an appointment, particularly during the quieter weekdays. Their approach to valuation considers both the desirability of the record and its condition, with potential offers ranging from a quarter to half of the item's retail value. It's important to note, though, that they have specific exclusions; records that are extremely damaged or 78s (with the exception of Hawaiian ones) are not accepted. 

Bookmans East Entertainment Exchange

address: 6230 E Speedway Blvd, Tucson, AZ 85712

Bookmans stands out in the Tucson vinyl scene for its eclectic taste and particular affinity for pop rock from the golden eras of the 60s to the 80s. For anyone considering selling their records, Bookmans sets a clear expectation for decent conditions.

Sellers don't need to worry about scheduling an appointment; they can simply bring their items in for evaluation at any time. This ease extends to their valuation process as well, which is transparently based on Discogs pricing. Sellers can expect to receive an offer that ranges from about a quarter to half of what Bookmans anticipates selling the record for. Moreover, Bookmans offers both trade and cash options, with cash typically amounting to half the trade value.

Desert Island Records

address: 2930 East Broadway Boulevard, Tucson, AZ

Desert Island Records distinguishes itself in the Tucson vinyl community with its open-minded approach to record collections, welcoming music from all genres. This inclusivity means that whether your collection spans the eclectic sounds of the 70s or delves into the modern beats of the 21st century, your records will find a welcoming audience here.

For those looking to sell, the process at Desert Island Records is refreshingly straightforward. Sellers are encouraged to drop by without an appointment, with the best times for evaluations being from Wednesday to Friday. 

Desert Island Records offers a competitive edge by providing cash payments that are on par with what other stores typically offer in trade. This focus on cash deals is a standout feature, appealing to sellers looking for immediate compensation without the need to exchange for store credit or other items.

Desert Vinyl

address: 5045 E Speedway Blvd, Tucson, AZ 85712

Desert Vinyl, with its keen focus on rock, jazz, and blues, seeks out vinyl records that are not only unique but also have broad appeal. The store places a high emphasis on the condition of the vinyl, insisting that records be in good shape. 

Understanding the value of convenience and personal service, Bob, the owner, offers to visit sellers directly in Tucson for evaluation. The valuation process at Desert Vinyl considers both the uniqueness of the record and its condition. Additionally, Desert Vinyl's is able to do home visits which is valuable for sellers with large collections or those unable to transport their records to the store.

Zia Records

address: 3370 E Speedway Blvd, Tucson, AZ 85716

Zia Records showcases an expansive taste in music, catering to lovers of rock, hip-hop, soul, and jazz alike. 

Selling to Zia Records is designed to be as straightforward and hassle-free as possible. No prior appointment is required; sellers can simply visit the store and head to the trade counter, which operates on a first-come, first-served basis. 

The valuation process at Zia Records is meticulously calculated, taking into account both the current market demand and the condition of the vinyl. This balanced approach guarantees that sellers receive a fair and market-reflective offer for their music, affirming Zia Records' commitment to fairness and transparency in their dealings.

Heroes & Villains

address: 4533 E Broadway Blvd, Tucson, AZ 85711

At this store, there's a pronounced preference for music that defines the vibrant eras of the 80s, 90s, and 2000s, particularly genres such as pop/rock, electronic, and hip-hop. They have a diminished interest in classical, 50s music, and spoken-word LPs, tailoring their collection to more contemporary tastes.

Sellers are encouraged to drop off their records at their convenience, filling out a form to provide details about their collection.

The store offers approximately 50% of the anticipated in-store selling price as store credit, a great option for those looking to refresh their collection. For those interested in a cash option, Heroes & Villains offers 25% of the selling price.

There are certain exclusions to what they accept. Specifically, 45s and 12" singles are generally excluded unless they are particularly noteworthy or rare.

Wooden Tooth Records

address: 108 E Congress St, Tucson, AZ 85701

Wooden Tooth Records has carved out its niche in the vinyl market by focusing on the rich sounds of jazz, blues, rock, and metal.

This selection clearly reflects the store's commitment to genres that resonate deeply with their customer base, while they consciously steer away from classical, big band, and vocal pop genres. 

For those looking to sell their vinyl records, the process at Wooden Tooth Records is remarkably convenient. There's no need to schedule an appointment in advance; sellers are welcome to bring their records directly to the store for an on-site evaluation. 

Wooden Tooth Records relies on Discogs for pricing, a platform widely regarded for its comprehensive database and accurate market values. This method ensures that sellers receive fair and current market rates for their records, with the valuation process being transparent and straightforward.

Conclusion

Every music store in Tucson contributes uniquely to the vinyl community, making the city a treasure trove for both vinyl record sellers and buyers seeking interesting finds. 

In our review, we've highlighted some of the most notable vinyl stores, each with its distinctive characteristics: the genre-specific focus of Old Paint Records and Desert Vinyl, the broad recognition and popularity of Bookmans and Desert Island Records, Zia Records' rigorous condition requirements, and the preference for popular music genres at Heroes & Villains and Wooden Tooth Records. This variety not only showcases the diversity of Tucson's vinyl scene but also its dynamic evolution.