6 Used Record Stores in Virginia for the Music Enthusiast in You

These stores will have you dusting off your record player

For music lovers, there is nothing as good as listening to your favorite tunes played on vinyl. The sounds that come from your trusty record player manage to be both nostalgic and transformative while also providing high-quality sound. 

Call me old-school, but streaming services will never be able to top the depth of sound that vinyl provides. Like many of my fellow music lovers, I am always on the lookout for used record stores to visit and add to my collection. Over the years, I have found a number of gems—from my favorite Pink Floyd albums to Eminem’s most recent albums—at record stores across Virginia. Read through for some of my favorites! 

Cheap Thrills Records

507 State St., Bristol

https://cheapthrillsrecords.com/ | https://www.facebook.com/CheapThrillsRex 

This quaint store has reams of vintage vinyl, as well as a selection of used movies and other collectibles. Cheap Thrills’ patrons are captivated by the extensive collection and number of rare finds sitting along the store’s shelves. The helpful and friendly staff are also happy to special order any specific records you may be looking for. This small business has a loyal following of local customers, for good reason, and is a gem worth visiting next time you are in Bristol!

Melody Supreme Record Store

115 4th St. SE, Charlottesville

https://cvillemelodysupreme.com/ | https://www.instagram.com/melodysupreme/ 

This small business prides itself on carefully selecting and cleaning each piece of pre-owned vinyl that is sold in the store. The store is welcoming, bright, and organized, and the selection is constantly refreshed. The owner can often be found walking around in the store organizing the shelves, and is happy to help visitors with any questions they may have. If you are looking for recommendations, the owner has a wealth of knowledge and is a great resource. This store buys and sells used records but has a selection of new vinyl as well.

Mobius Records

10409 Main St., Ste. D, Fairfax

https://www.mobiusrecordshop.com/  | https://www.instagram.com/mobiusrecordshop/ 

What makes this record store special is the level of engagement and care shown by the staff toward their customers. Every Friday, the staff posts new releases on their social media sites as a way to connect with customers and let them know what’s new at Mobius. The staff is also very friendly and knowledgeable when customers come into the store with questions or looking for recommendations. 

Plan 9 Music

3017 W. Cary St., Richmond

339 Hillsdale Drive, Seminole Square Shopping Center, Charlottesville

https://plan9music.com/ | https://www.instagram.com/plan9music/ 

Plan 9 Music is an independent record store that has been around for over 40 years! They have stores in Richmond and in Charlottesville, both of which carry a large selection of new and used records, CDs, cassettes, and more. In addition to selling new items, the team at Plan 9 loves curating their large selection of premium, pre-owned vinyl, which is loved by their customers who come from all backgrounds and ages to dig in the crates. It is evident from seeing patrons’ smiles that Plan 9 makes an effort to take part in the local community; they proudly support local artists and shows and even sponsor the Richmond Folk Festival. 

AFK Books & Records

4801 Shore Drive, Suite D, Virginia Beach

https://afkbooks.com/  | https://www.instagram.com/afkbooksandrecords/?hl=en 

AFK Books & Records has an impressive vinyl selection of over 12,000 records in almost every genre. In addition to some serious options for music lovers, this store provides a fun shopping experience and even has a shop dog! AFK has something for everyone, even if you aren’t on the hunt for your next record; they also sell a large selection of books, comics, games, and more, all at a reasonable price. The store also sells turntables and a range of vinyl accessories and supplies for anyone looking to soup up their entertainment center.

2^nd and Charles

12747 Jefferson Ave., Newport News

https://www.2ndandcharles.com/locations/newport-news  | https://www.instagram.com/2ncnewportnews 

This store specializes in buying back used vinyl, as well as books, movies, and games. Any book or record enthusiast will fall in love with their expansive selection of both used and new items, all sold at reasonable prices. The store itself is large and is the perfect place to spend a rainy day browsing the shelves—you may even come across a rare collector’s item. The space is set up for you to stay awhile and enjoy their collection, with a number of sofas and reading areas spread out around the store as well as some snacks to purchase up at the register.