Many true audiophiles love phonograph records. These fans insist that the sound of vinyl is far superior to anything you can get from a CD, an MP3, or a cassette. Phonograph records play the full range of sound, while a CD has to eliminate some of the highs and lows to fit onto the CD medium. The act of picking up the needle and setting it on your chosen track is somehow so satisfying, a ritual that has all but disappeared.

You can find phonograph records from such names as Slim Whitman, Hank Williams Sr., Marie Osmond, Iron Butterfly, and other obscure performers. You can also find a wide selection of classical albums from Brahms, Handel, Bach, Beethoven, Mozart, Orff, and others.

However, keep in mind that phonograph records need to be lovingly handled. Heat can warp them and a careless scratch can ruin them forever. Most phonograph records come with a paper sleeve inside of the cardboard box or envelope. If you take care to use this sleeve whenever you store the record, you can enhance its life.

The market is currently seeing a resurgence in record stores, and even some stores that deal exclusively in phonograph records. Phonograph records have experienced such a resurgence in popularity that top audio machine makers, such as Bang and Olufsen, are making record players that run to the tens of thousands of dollars. You can also attach five-foot high speakers to your phonograph player from makers such as B&W that will dramatically enhance the sound. The depth of your vinyl addiction is entirely up to you!