Next time I'm coming here first. My friend was in town, and he wanted to do some record shopping. OK, fine, I haven't bought any wax for a while, so I'm game. After taking him to the places on the South side, he had spent a mint and I hadn't scored at all. The places were all either too spendy or the vinyl was thrashed. Then, it was, "OK, one last place." And what a wise decision. Great selection, clean and cheap! My buddy was all spent out and was kicking himself for buying stuff at other shops that could have been procured here more cheaply. Me? I left with a few new platters to scatter as I make with the drinks and chatter. Daddy-o. read more

Be warned...especially parents, watch out - upon entering, you'll likely be greeted with explicit, vulgar, and extremely disturbing music (lyrics) playing in the store. I am a long-time customer of Breakaway and up until this past year I've had good shopping experiences but my last few visits were very disappointing. During my most recent visits the guy working the counter subjected customers to the most vulgar, offensive and disturbing lyrics that I've ever heard. I had hoped that the 1st two times I encountered this that it was a just an occasional poor choice made by a new employee; clearly now this is not the case. When this happened yesterday evening, I thought that the clerk would at least change the music when he saw me (a woman) enter to shop - nope, not only did he not change it but he even turned it over to play the other equally offensive side! After all the other shoppers left, I approached the counter to make my purchase and I told the guy "Given the thousands of music albums you have to chose from, I'm baffled as to why you would play one that's so vulgar" - the guy just looks at me and snaps off "I happen to like it!". Shocked by his response, I then stated "So your customer's feelings don't matter?" - his reply "You're entitled to your opinion"...oh, ok great so the message I got was: Too bad lady, so somewhere else. Then, a moment later my husband (who is equally unhappy about the music playing in the store) approached the counter next to me and then this same jerk told me, in a completely different tone, "If you ever have an issue with the music playing in the store, all you have to do is tell us at the counter and we'll try to accommodate you"...really?? I told him I did just that a second ago and his attitude and response was too bad, I like it. Common sense should dictate that if you don't want me to speak to you using the terms Mother F***er, B*tch, a$$, P*ss*, or the N-word - DON"T PLAY IT IN YOUR STORE. I called the store this morning and spoke to "one of the owners", Josh and he told me that "they all grew up with that type of music" but typically try to change it if a woman or child walks in. However, now they may consider changing their policy to not playing in the store at all. For the sake of their unsuspecting customers, I hope they eliminate it completely. read more

Breakaway records was good but I wasn't head over heels in love with the staff or prices. I have a break down of how I rate a record tore and this is what it is: 1. Mark Up and Cost of Records - This is two parts to this category here. When I visited David Bowie just passed and they marked up his records. Bluntly by sticking a tag over the original price tag and it was a lot more. Also this was within days of his passing. That being said almost all the new records were a bit on the heavy side. They have a discount section and that's where my goldmine was. I ended up getting a Star Wars orchestra record for two bucks. That's why they get 4 stars is their bargain section was on point. 2. Quality of Records and Assortment - Records are all in excellent shape. The discounts are perfect as well as their regular priced stuff. 3. Lay Out and Organization - The lay out is decent. It's spaced out enough. You can grab a coffee next door and chill while picking things out. 4. Displays or Store Recommendations - I believe they had a playing station that allowed you to play things. I didn't see a recommendation section. 5. Staff Interactions - I tried talking to the cashier about their selection and he was completely uninterested in answering questions or anything. It's cool... I guess. I'm not looking for happy go lucky but if I am brining up something about records I'd expect people to be responsive at least. They seemed a little quiet I guess but it is what it is. I recommend this store for their bargain section of awesome records. read more

Yours truly--a self-avowed vinyl junkie (and lifelong cheapskate)--has found his smack. I collect soul singles, and rock, punk, and [cough] classical LPs. New on the east-side scene since Summer 2008, Breakaway's co-owners are very knowledgeable and helpful. If they don't have it just give your e-mail and they will notify you when it comes in. Breakaway offers fair prices and the stock turns over very often. They have quite a lot for a buck and most items are under $20. While most of the stock is used, they have some new stuff, too (I picked up Husker Du "New Day Rising" reissue for $10). One other item of special note, during SXSW the store had 3 daytime showcases with top-notched live music. I saw The She Creatures from Bristol, Eng. (four gals in silver hot pants, laser pistols and blue hairdos). Also, Magic Christian, a band feat Cyril Jordan (Flamin' Groovies), Eddie Munoz (Plimsouls), and Clem Burke (Blondie). And Gentlemen Jesse & His Men. Hell yeah! Breakaway ROCKS! read more

Breakaway Records had never been on my radar until we recently got a turntable . I pass by it a million times to go to Epoch but had never set foot in here. I like the plethora of used records more than I can appreciate new records. On a recent Saturday, we went all over town to almost all the record shops in Austin (there aren't too many) and this one was by far my favorite. The reason being is that they aren't super obnoxious about prices like some other places. I was looking for some old crooner records and that's exactly what I got here! There's something just so exciting about finding a record for $2.99....I can't explain it. Surely that is the thrift shopper in me that gets excited for cheap stuff. I bought my first record here (the Urban Cowboy soundtrack...for you guessed it $2.99 ) and I will forever be grateful for this! They also have listening stations throughout the store, and FYI most record stores have these so I get that it isn't unique. But their selection is good, the prices are right, the location is superb. I'll definitely be back when I'm in need of some new tunes for the turntable. read more

On first glance, this place just doesnt look like it has much to offer. Small. Nothing fancy. Simply Vinyl. What more can a girl ask for? The selection is amazing. The staff is always friendly and helpful. I never ever leave empty handed. read more

This is definitely the best record store in Austin. It's not perfect, but it is leaps and bounds above anything else. The stock is rotated fairly frequently, and usually they'll get in a lot of good stuff. Sometimes the price won't be exactly what you want, but you can agree that the quality of the records are top notch. The experience in the store is all around pleasant, so I don't mind a bit of a price increase on some great records. Prepare yourself for the dollar bins, because you will have an achy back after going through all of them read more

I went to Breakaway on the recommendation of a friend and fellow vinyl junkie. The Good: really nicely laid out collection. Great sections. Very organized. Fair pricing. Big 45 section. The Bad: the owner (I think he was the owner). Moody. Not engaging. As a collector, I go to record stores to shop and talk records! I am not sure if he was hungover, sick, or just moody but he have off the vibe that I was bothering him by asking questions. I was his only customer when I was there. After returning home I talked with the friend who sent me there. He said that he had a different experience. Hopefully the guy just was having a bad day. I will go back sometime. Maybe second time is a charm. After all, we all have rough days. read more

Once again, I'm the party-pooper on the list of reviewers. They've done as much as they can with the space, and I respect that. I just wish they'd expand. Or perhaps they could add a few more genres to what they offer. Like disco/funk, and big band/jazz. I started out giving this place three stars, but the fact that I've never left Breakaway empty-handed means I should give them four stars. I suppose I can't fault them entirely for not selling every genre I want to listen to. After all, they have done just about as much with their tiny cramped store as they can. I think Breakaway has a lot of potential if they could just expand to a bigger space. read more

I buy records. I listen to the records I buy. Breakaway has the best selection I have seen in the Austin metro area. The records are set up in a way so you can see all of them and search through them with out tripping over boxes of records. The vinyl turns quickly due to the great pricing and selection. Gabe and Michael are knowledgeable about records, music and easy to buy from. I stop in just about daily, there is always a new stack to check out.The record shop shares the lot with Cafe Mundi . You must go buy records there today. I wish Breakaway a fabulous 1st anniversary! Thanks for being there for my vinyl fix..... read more

Probably my favorite vinyl shop in town. I don't know what it is about this place, but I always come home with something really good, usually something I've never heard before (thanks to their staff picks). Breakaway also doesn't feel as dirty as most other vinyl shops in town. They seem to want to keep the place pretty clean, which is very appreciated. It's small but everything is laid out very nicely, with some great categories as well (staff picks, guilty pleasures). I high recommend going through their staff picks. Find a couple records you think look interesting and give them a listen. I always find something really cool and interesting that I usually end up buying. Their playing stations are great too. High quality Technics turntables, also very much appreciated (compared to End of an Ear, which uses the worst/cheapest turntables possible). Staff is friendly and always greets when you walk in the door, and always helpful if you have any questions. Epoch is also right next door, which is fantastic. read more

The shop itself is great. Nice selection. My problem is with their price labels. The shop sticks their price labels directly on the cover. Which isn't a problem if you use the low stick variety. Sadly Breakaway does not. I got home and started to remove the labels. The ones that didn't tear the paper right off the cover left some serious glue behind. Why pay all this money and have the covers ruined? Ask for a discount next time you buy, if they ask why, tell them it is to cover the damages they inflicted on the product. read more

Breakaway Records has been on my radar for a while now. I've always been under the impression that they catered mostly to soul records, which isn't exactly my thing. After seeing a link to an article that Spin wrote about the 50 Best things they saw at SXSW 2013 on Breakaway's Facebook page, my curiosity was piqued and I decided to visit them this week. I generally don't cut and paste for my reviews, but if Spin's words encouraged me to visit this great record store...perhaps they'll encourage you as well. I re-read their article after my visit and agree with everything written. Why reinvent the wheel, right? Spin's article: Located in a small, low-key shopping plaza about a 15-minute drive north from downtown Austin, Breakaway has, as they put it, "a whole crapload of vinyl," both albums and 45s, mostly from the '50s, '60s, '70s (carefully arranged and curated), plus beautiful posters of soul greats, cool t-shirts, awesome mix CDs assembled by the store's staff, and their own reissue label, Drop Shadow. But that hardly tells the story of what makes this store exceptionally inviting: There's just something about Breakaway that's so damn cozy. It makes you like you're stepping inside a casually cool family member's old house, with a handful of vintage chairs if you wanna chill, but most mind-blowingly of all, a huge collection of small portable record players -- from Fisher-Price to highly stylized models, a few of which you can even try out yourself at comfortable listening stations. read more

When I go to downtown Austin, my heart sinks. What was once a cool, funky vibe has quickly turned into Dallas (yep, I said it). Then I go to Breakaway Records and it restores my faith in this town (Thank God for this funky neighborhood). I LOVE everything about this place! I love how the records are organized, I love the section where there are new records...I love the vibe...the guys who work there...everything. I could spend hours at this store easily. I can never leave this store empty handed...impossible. The records are always in great condition, too. My husband managed to sneak in a Boxcar Willy vinyl into my order, and I was pleasantly surprised after playing it (not sure why I'm sharing this). Hands down, one of my favorite places in Austin! read more

Breakaway has a good selection of used LPs - I only wish all the bargain LPs weren't down on the lower shelves. I understand, though - it's a small space, and they gotta fit it all in there. The staff was helpful, and the prices were okay. I really didn't want to play any nice LPs in their listening center, though, which is two portable record players that have tonearms like paperweights. I'd recommend they offer a basic turntable with a decent arm. read more

I first happened upon Breakaway Records a few months ago and was pleasantly surprised with how much music they have been able to fit into a rather small place. I have been back several times and have remained impressed. I always hit the jazz section first at any record store and always seem to find some gems in the $1 section by the likes of Cecil Payne, Lenny Breau, The Thad Jones/Mel Lewis, one of Blue Mitchell's last records, etc. There was also pretty tempting stuff in the regular bins, but I was unable to partake due to budgetary constraints. They also seem to have a really great selection of Soul. Perhaps some genres are ignored, but there is no reason a shop can't specialize. I have even stumbled across interesting things in the "underrepresented" genres, like an orchestral Piazzola/Jobim album on a Brasilian label. read more

Lately, when I go to record stores, I don't expect much- I've become such a pessimist and think that the only way to get the records I want is through Ebay, Discogs, and flea markets. NOT TRUE! Breakaway was a big reminder that small shops can and do still carry a punch. From friendly service to organized shelves to having two listening stations, I was able to find all sorts of gems within a short amount of time. I'm not sure if the street leading up to Breakaway is one way or two: while we were driving down it toward the shop we realized that all the cars were parked in the opposite direction on only one side of the narrow street that's bordered by train tracks- but then again, I was visiting from California and that Texas heat really does crazy things to my brain, like making it not work. read more

Great prices and great customer service! I've been looking for a pair of tower speaker and they had a great selection. They also a great selection of turntables and receivers. I ended up buying a pair floor speakers and they sound great! I'll be going back very soon! read more

Breakaway Records - Acoustic monitor db IV floor speakers - Vinyl Records Near Me - Austin, Texas

I try to visit this place everytime I am in Austin. They were playing an album and i wanted it. I knew one of the songs, but not the artist. The guy behind the counter told me who it was and then helped me find the album to purchase. It is not an overhwlmingly huge place like some other record stores I have been in, which makes it feel more invitinf. read more

I think I found my new favorite place to spoil myself! This store has a great selection of records. Everything is very well organized in a variety of genres. The prices are super low plus there's even a sale bin. There's always a cool record playing, and a number of record players(for sale) lining the store also add to the ambiance. The clerk was helpful but not intrusive. Though they didn't have the new record that I was looking for, that wasn't enough to bump off a star. If you love records, you'll agree that this is a beautiful store to peruse through. And it feels so clean for vinyl store. I definitely plan to return to add more to my collection. read more

I go here all the time and the people that work here are so kind. the covid restrictions are being used which i love. great environment!

I have been to a lot of record stores as an Austin tourist and as an Austin local...So what do I know about "Breakaway Records"? Well I know it's the BEST record store I've been to, just depends on what your looking for..... read more

I absolutely love this place. Great choice in records, great prices and the staff is MOST EXCELLENT!! read more

Breakaway Records - Vinyl Records Near Me - Austin, Texas

This is the best record store in Austin. I buy tons of 45's here. Everyone is really nice, and their staff recommendation section has produced some gems for my collection. read more

Pretty nice joint, super nice staff and a pretty good selection of vinyl. Records are moderately priced there are some gems but there are some that are a little pricey for me anyway. Would definitely come back to the store very neat, very clean and very well organized probably one of the best I've visited in this town. read more

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You can tell the owners are true hip hop heads, the selection is stellar. Love the whole vibe of this store, it's my favorite record shop in Austin. I wish the listening stations were a little more cozy and placed in low traffic places in the store; you're sitting at an end of isle amongst shoppers with headphones on and it feels awkward. There's a 10 minute time limit at the stations, but they're always unused from the times I've been there. But hey, im not a record store owner and maybe people have really abused the privilege but I'll just say as a true digger I'd appreciate a more comfortable listening experience. read more

Great selection of old and new records. Gotta love a store with a good dollar bin! And listening stations--so nice. Pricing was on point.

They have a great jazz section, listening stations, and very friendly staff. I was looking for a particular record and they had it which made it a great experience for me. read more

Always my first stop when record shopping in Austin, great selection of 45s all fairly priced. Staff is always friendly and they have listening stations which make shopping a lot more fun for me. Clean and well curated and designed shop, highly recommended! read more

A bad experience today. Family & Friends if you ever come to Austin,Texas. Please do not shop at Breakaway Records. I went in there to shop. I wanted to listen to one used record before I bought it. The guy came up and said you can not play used records on our store turntables and I asked why? He said it wears the needle out. I said that's a new one. I walked up to the counter and asked him if it was a because I was Mexican? He said no you can not play $1 records and I said I thought it was only used ones...now its $1 lp(s). Then I pointed to a guy at another station and he was playing used records...mmh. The clerk had nothing to say and looked scared. I've been going to this store for years and I will never go back. They get no stars from...Hipsters are a JOKE! read more

Slip back in time in this great vintage shopping center with the 3 best things; records, coffee, and vintage clothing! This little gem record store has some great vinyl in all genres at great prices! Several listening stations and a small throw back seating area to boot! Perfect place to bring friends visiting from out of town! read more

Yesterday, November 7, I went to Epoch and blue velvet and spent a combined total of well over $100. It was my birthday, and I wanted to treat myself. I then went down to the creek like I do everyday to jam while I enjoy my coffee and frankly the scenery. I had forgotten something in my car and when I came back up I was verbally assaulted by a Breakaway Record employee telling me I was not allowed to park where I was if I was leaving the premises. Now mind you no one was in Breakaway records and I was not in one of the reserved spots for everyone. I tried to have a calm reasonable discussion, but he insisted on screaming and yelling. I had no idea I was even leaving the premises I've been a regular at epoch for 2 years and this was the first time anyone had said anything. I ended up leaving very off put. I will never recommend anyone visits your shop! read more

First off, let me start by saying in terms of the actual store (selection, quality, price) I'd rate this a 4. I've been in this store many times prior and have done a good amount of business with them but after the experience I had with the staff today I felt the need to say something. A few days ago I purchased a copy of Rumors by Fleetwood Mac. It was in the new arrivals section priced for 14.99. Because I've done enough business with them to know their price vs quality scale and I knew that record sells new for about 20 I felt comfortable just purchasing it without checking it in the store. Not a mistake I'll be making again. When I returned home I found scratches all over the record and attempted to play it to find all the wear did in fact effect the playback significantly. So today I brought the vinyl and receipt back to them. The first employee I spoke with was surprised to see the damage on the vinyl as well and stated that it seemed like someone probably switched out a cheap copy for the one they believe must have been in the cover prior. And with that he told me I was good for an exchange and I started shopping. I'd been in there about 15 minutes and had 4 other vinyls in my hand when another staff member (owner maybe?) approached me and asked me to come speak with him. I walked to the register and he stated that there was NO WAY they priced this vinyl for that much and it must have been swapped out. I agreed with him and then he proceeded to tell me that they wouldn't be taking the record back leaving me to read between the lines of "this is your fault and we're not falling for your scam". I told him I'm not going to make a big deal of it. I understand it's an independent business and they do what they have to do but I didn't swap the record. He asked if I checked the record before purchase and I told him that I didn't because I also know they wouldn't sell a badly damaged vinyl for 14.99 so didn't feel the need to inspect it in store. He then went on to give me a speech about how I should check every record to avoid any more awkward conversations and then checked me out for the exchange on top of a few additional purchases. And if I had to make a bet I'd say those guys are still convinced that I was somehow being dishonest. So if anyone from the store reads this: Considering the fact you had to have an accusatory conversation with a customer over a 14.99 purchase maybe your employees should start checking the vinyls themselves when the customer purchases the album rather than pointing the finger at your customers to spot check your inventory. read more

I love this store! When I lived up north, I'd stop in when traffic was too bad to make it to End of an Ear. After a few visits, I grew to love the different selection. I've never been a huge soul fan, but Breakaway makes me want to spend way too much money on 45s I've never heard. There's much more than just soul, too. I found used/new copies of some of my favorite records (Kate Bush, Ministry and a NIN box that was $20 cheaper than the price at another popular store). It's definitely worth checking out! I guarantee you won't be able to leave without making a purchase. read more

I'm so glad I stumbled upon this place. I recently began collecting vinyl. My fiance has a pretty big collection and I wanted to add my own. They have a great selections of used vinyl here. Lots of classics and random things. I bought my first record ever here. It was Janet Jackson's Control for $5. I almost peed my pants. I also picked up Fleetwood Mac's Rumors here, as well as Prince's Purple Rain. I think the shining star is their Soul selection. You can find some great stuff. They have a whole section dedicated to Daptone Records and The Numero Group. They also have a wide selection of equipment. The staff is really friendly. You don't feel like you're in Championship Records asking for Stevie Wonder's I Just Called to Say I Love You. If you get that reference, you're the best. Congrats and have a special day. read more

Awesome store, full of amazing and rare gems, great selection of vintage equipment and oh so clean. Probably the cleanest record store I have ever visited. Very helpful staff, even has good parking. read more

I visited this store on my last dozen or so trips to the Austin Record Show and this is by far the best new store I have come across in all my 30 or so visits to the US from the UK. The staff are so knowledgeable and so helpful(even to the extent of providing refreshments if you're browsing long enough). The 45 section is by far the best in Austin, and that includes the Austin dealers I have been to. The prices are very reasonable. The album section is amazing and I know if I lived in Austin I would visit the store probably every couple of days to build up my LP collection, but living in England I find LPs too heavy to transport back. All in all the best store to visit in Austin. read more

Although small, they have a great selection (with great prices) of mostly everything. Satisfied my psych needs, for sure. Additionally, the owner has a wall of every Bo Diddley album, which is impressive. That tells you after walking in that off the bat the place is going to be awesome. read more

love this place. LOVE THIS PLACE. it's always a blast to look for some gems among their vast selection of reasonably priced used records. It is pretty organized and neat. The staff is super friendly & knowledgeable. They helped me select my first record player. read more

I can get lost here I love this place and the staff is so helpful and chill , i usually always leave here with something and usually more than I want spend with no regrets , the selection is deep and much to choose from. I love coming here as much as I can and I drive in from San Antonio just to hang here a bit . read more