Used music CDs are an accepted part of everyday life today. This is in marked contrast to the early 1990s, when record labels tried to penalize venues that sold used CDs. Even artists like Garth Brooks got into the ring--in 1993, he threatened to withhold his new album, In Pieces, from any retailer who also sold used CDs. Garth later retracted his threat, and used CDs--generally available for $9 or less, with even lower prices online--are being snatched up by those looking to save money, complete their collections, or simply experiment in the unknown. Unlike vinyl LPs, used CDs will not warp with age. Digital technology ensures that a CD--if taken care of--has a life expectancy of nearly 125 years. Because the used music CD industry is not regulated, there are no hard and fast statistics on its growth. It's no secret that used CDs found online can be bargains--particularly if you are interested in obscure or ignored artists. If you're a closet Bel Biv Devoe fan, you can typically find one of their CDs used for $3 or less. Another benefit of buying used music CDs online is variety. Many new CD venues carry only mainstream albums that are guaranteed to sell, leaving little room for older albums. Or if the CD didn't sell well when new, used may be the only way you'll add it to your collection. By shopping online, you gain access to the widest database of sources for rare and out of print CDs. If you've woken up one morning desperate to own every Eric Clapton CD, this can be a significant investment--the median price for a new CD is $18. With 15-plus albums to buy, the cost quickly adds up. But if you find used music CDs online at around $5 per pop? Not so much. In addition, used music CDs can open a whole new world to those looking for something beyond Top 40 hits. Soundtracks, singles, boxed sets, collector's editions, rare promo CDs--the variety of used CDs online is virtually limitless. |
