Used CDs

The CD format has officially taken over: in 2004, CD sales totaled an amazing 98 percent of all albums sold. But since a new CD can cost nearly $20--and because a well-taken-care-of CD can outlive most people--used CDs have become big business. Used CDs are found through independent dealers, online used CD stores, and even swap meets.If picking through a catalog of someone's used CDs doesn't appeal to you, think about this: most used CDs sell for less than half the price of a new one. And if it's been handled properly, a used CD should sound just as good. For the price of a new CD, a savvy shopper can purchase two--or even three--used CDs online.Because the used CD industry has grown by leaps and bounds since the '80s, the selection of used CDs available online is rich and diverse. You don't need to fear being limited to such 'gems' as Paula Abdul's Forever Your Girl. Although when an artist releases a new album (or joins a high-profile television show), interest in his or her back catalog does increase. There are used CDs available online in nearly any genre imaginable, including rock, pop, country, punk, reggae, or even books on CD or comedy CDs.One factor affecting used CDs is the 'dreaded' MP3. These days, consumers can simply upload their new (or used) CDs into their computers, burn copies, fileshare with others, or transfer their tunes to MP3 players. Many times these now-unnecessary CDs find their way to used CD venues to earn their owners a little extra cash. However for completists, there is no replacement for having an entire collection, and these music fans can find some great deals on used music by searching online.