I do not frequent this record shop, but after my visit today, I will not be back. Record Store Day is an event for my wife and I, we go to most of the shops in the area. This shop's selection was not what most people were looking for, it was what the owner was looking for, and it was the smallest selection I have ever seen in this shop. I understand RSD is an expensive day for shops and they cannot buy everything to have in stock. However, that was not the biggest problem. This shop is dirty. There is a cat and the shop smells like it doesn't know how to use the litter box. The owner tries to cover up the odor by burning incense nonstop, and the ashes from the incense just pile up on the shelf. I walked out feeling like I needed to take a bath with the stench stuck in my nose. read more

What a cute lil record shop! Found some nice old pop, folk, and country records that I've been looking for. Owners were very sweet and knowledgable, and a shoutout to Nico the kitty. read more

Love coming and exploring inside the shop. I feel like a kid at the candy store. Always find awesome music!. The owner, Adam, Fun to talk to and an excellent resource of music. Always helpful and fun to talk to about music. Also he is very good at recommending bands from all genres. Bottom line: Awesome place, awesome collection, awesome prices! Great record store! read more

Rude staff. Would have probably spent good money but clearly he didn't want it. Won't be returning.

Small hidden away jampacked full of records, decent selection of VHS tapes but buyer beware if you don't like cats... then go to the other location. Diggers Paradise. read more

A quirky vintage shop with records galore! I was in the mood to go crate digging on a fine spring Saturday & stumbled upon Record Krate thanks to yelp. Initially, my friend & I were digging through the alphabetized section & realized the genre sections were in the other room (by the checkout counter). I was in the mood for jazz & soul & my wants & needs were met! I stocked up on so many jazz records, six: Ella Fitzgerald, one: The Blackbyrds & one: Miles Davis. While the covers weren't in great shape, (hey, they're old!), the records were in fine shape. The bulk of my choices were $8 each, but the price varies on each record. The shop is neat & organized & has that musty, vintage smell. Parking is an issue, so be mindful of that. Also, look at the basement level to find the store (in the back of the building). read more

Welp, the place is still here, and it continues to get great reviews. Friends of mine have enthused about it IRL, so I decided to give it another shot. I'll give them this: the selection is a lot better than I remember from the last time I was here. I saw more albums that I would consider "classics" and more that I was potentially interested in buying (although there were still enough "time capsules" to bring a smile to my face, like the unexpectedly-thick "Led Zeppelin" section that opened to reveal one LP by the Firm and a bunch of Robert Plant solo records). Also on the "pro" side, I have to give props to Record Krate for actually keeping most of their records organized. The dividers in the stacks generally indicated the artist (or letter) found immediately behind that divider, a simple and helpful filing system that nonetheless continues to elude many of the vinyl merchants in the Triangle. On the "con" side, I have to mention one of the Record Krate's most annoying practices, which is that they put the pricetags on the *back* of each record. This means that you have to pull each album out and turn it over to see the price. Call me cynical, but this strikes me as a tacit admission that they know their prices are likely to induce sticker shock. And, indeed, sticker shock continues to be the order of the day, as it was the last time I visited. I found a number of LPs that I would have been willing to buy, but none of them turned out to be in good enough condition to justify the prices. Of course, you can only tell so much by looking at a record. I might consider spending that kind of money if I got an assurance that I was going to be satisfied with the way the record actually sounded. Unfortunately, Record Krate offers nothing of the kind. On the contrary, a large sign behind the register informs customers that there are no returns, exchanges or refunds available for any reason. That really doesn't inspire confidence in the quality of merchandise they're offering, and it would certainly dissuade me from dropping the money on any of their big-ticket items. Anyway, as I said at the top, The Record Krate seems to be doing well and they're well-reviewed by almost everyone. My opinion is obviously a minority one, so take it for what it's worth. If you're willing to spend the cash, you can probably get some nice records here, but it was too rich for my blood. read more

Disgusting place. The moment you walk in, you are instantly hit with an ungodly smell. The place totally reeks. I'm by no means a germaphobe, but I felt an overwhelming need to bathe in bleach after being in there for a few minutes. I've poked around in there many times over the past several years and have left empty handed nearly every time. I'm finally giving up on this place. It has been in sharp decline since I first came here in maybe 2013 or so. Half of the store has been closed off for the last few years. There used to be rats (swear to god) that would chew on records. On more than one occasion I've heard them around. I remember back in 2017 or so, I stumbled into an old kombucha in the back that the store owner was "brewing." Yeah, it looked like a damn witch's cauldron and was infested with flies. Absolutely filthy place and the owner is a dirty dude who clearly doesn't bathe. I'm willing to put up with the disgustingness of the joint if the records were worthwhile, but they suck too. Nothing but junk in this place. Don't waste your time. I'm actually shocked to see any positive reviews at all. This is definitely an awful store. Hope it closes soon. read more

Since the Record Krate opened, it's managed to become my favorite shop in Raleigh. The selection is great, and the owner Kirk is one of the friendliest guys I've ever met. You'll find classic rock, hair metal, blues, jazz, and classical. You won't see a lot of newer stuff, but there's a section for that too. Most records are in great shape, Kirk will tell you otherwise at checkout. There's a large section of unsorted, cheap vinyl too if you want to spend some time digging for gems. Most recently, around the holidays, there was a great Christmas vinyl selection on display; by far the best selection I saw anywhere in the Triangle. One of the awesome quirks/perks is there's a loyalty card that gets you fun things. On my most recent trip, I scored a pair of (cheap) sunglasses for spending over $25. There were also free records/cassettes outside up-for-grabs on my way out. The prices are good, and everything's organized in the shop except for the bargain bins and new arrivals. The only thing that could be improved is the hours (closing at 4 in the winter), but I can work around that. read more

Great environment to search for quality records. My brother and I had an amazing time. We walked away with quite a few sought after classics. Great customer service as well! read more

Great selection and a noteworthy $1 bins selection Really organized for being in the basement of a building. Parking can be a pain though since it's really limited. They even had old school books and vintage band stickers (so tempted to buy an Oasis one). The main guy who runs the place is really friendly and talks to the customers throughout the store. He even offered free holiday records from a bin by the register, as his gift to the customer. Granted, the records weren't incredible finds, but the gesture was greatly appreciated. Just like any other quirky record store with music-obsessed older folk running the place. read more

its the best record and (cd) store in Raleigh one time i payed a doller and got billy joel piano man (wait for it) for a dolller!!!in good condition owner Kurk is nice and knoladgable also cd buffs 25 cents cds!!!! beat that sonny state records u overpriced crap!!! record Krate is by far the best record store evert read more

This is the cleanest and friendliest record store I've found in Raleigh! The people in the store make wonderful recommendations and are very helpful. They'll gladly play anything you want to listen to on their very nice turntable---no matter how odd or awful the record you request! read more

Record Krate - Raleigh - Vinyl Records Near Me - Raleigh, North Carolina

Drove 45 minutes to the location in Raleigh on 5/22/22. Planned to make a day of it. Website said it was open on Sundays, but they are not. He agreed to come unlock the door anyway, which i appreciated under the circumstances. While on the phone standing at the door, i asked if i needed a mask because there was a sign but thought it might be an old sign since we've long stopped wearing masks. He because very rude asking why would you ask if you need a mask if you're standing at the back door that has a sign. As rude as he was, i didn't feel the need to explain i thought the sign might be old. luckily, i found a mask in my car. When i got back to the door, he didn't think i had my mask up high enough even though it was covering mouth and nose. While he was being very short with me commanding that i pull it up even further, i decided that I was not going to spend one dime in his store. Made me feel i was just a bother to him. I do not understand why someone who is so freakishly afraid of Covid would even work in a store that needs people in it in order to make money. I didn't waist any more of his time explaining that i had driven so far nor did i take up any more of his time reminding him that he could just keep his distance from me if that might help his paranoia. Hugh disappointment. Definatly needs work on customer service and actually welcoming people into his store. It takes PEOPLE to keep your business going. Never again and i will tell all of my friends who recently just bought turn-tables like myself to avoid this store and not waste the cost of gas to get there. read more

This place is hidden behind and beneath where google maps will take you but I was glad I found it (behind the salon). The prices for used records are very fair and the ones that I purchased were in fantastic condition. The one staff member, which I am assuming was the owner, was very helpful and knowledgeable. He play tested the albums for me over the store speakers. The new records are a little overpriced, but it's what you would expect. I would prefer to support this small business that has some charm to it. read more

So I'm on the hunt for some old R & B vinyl and find Record Krate on Yelp. Easier than actually finding the shop. Be diligent, though, this is an amazing find. Bins of vinyl covering all genres. Brought back fond memories of shopping at The Record Bar in my teen years. Loved it. Will return. read more

One of the best record stores in Raleigh. Great material added often and the owner takes the time to sort the albums by genre and alphabetically. Unlike other stores in the area the owner is always there so you can ask him if you're looking for something specific. Also, he has a really large bin of records at $3 and if you buy 5 records that are marked $3 they end up being $2 each, so it's a very good deal. Also, if you are on the fence about a record, the owner will gladly play it back for you so you can tell if it was the one you were looking for. Great place to buy vinyl, one of the best or the best in Raleigh. read more

My 16yo is into vinyls and couldn't wait to find more at Record Krate. The store is cozy, but staff is super friendly and helpful. It's also very well-organized. We scored The Wall, Tony Bennett and Count Basie for her...and The Commodores for me (lol). read more

Clean nice selection and very helpful. Only reason why 4 stars is because its pretty cramped but maybe eventually they can afford to expand!! read more

Killer customer service and even better vinyl. Don't miss out on the bargain bins!

Great selection. They had everything I asked for and more from every genre. The store was nearly organized which allowed me to look for what I wanted easily. Shop owners will point you in the right direction, should you need it. Store is tucked away in a parking lot, down some stairs. A hidden gem. They'll also play it for you if you ask. Ill definitely be back! read more

This is by far the best record store in the Triangle area. Great vinyl, quirky coolness, and the owner, Kirk, is top-notch and knowledgeable. I frequent this place at least once a week. You should too. read more

Record Krate offers a great selection at very reasonable prices, and Kirk was super friendly and helpful. The entrance faces the parking lot at the corner of Saint Mary's and Johnson. read more

...I'm a pretty serious record shopper, and I gotta say, the Record Krate delivers more often than not. The owner does a great job of curating the selection: You'll find some common stuff here, but it's kept to a relative minimum (and priced cheaply), especially compared to some other stores nearby, who seem willing to put just any old Goodwill/yard-sale garbage out onto the racks (and over-price it). And while stock is fairly ample, it is well-organized and broken down into sub-genres for optimum browsing. So many shops seem to refuse to organize their backlog and prefer to let it accrue in undifferentiated piles...but not the Record Krate, which I really, really appreciate. The owner also pays very close attention to condition - if a nice record is priced on the slightly high side, you can bet the vinyl is in beautiful shape. Speaking of prices, they are very, very fair. I was there recently and found a record I've never seen for less than $30 for only $10 - in beautiful shape. The most desirable early Zappa LPs, which dealers are really starting to gauge on, are still affordable at the Krate. The bargain bins are also very nicely stocked. If you're a record nerd coming into Raleigh just for a short time, put this one at or near the top of your list of places to visit. You never know what you're going to find, but chances are, just when you least expect it, a treasure will reveal itself to you. read more

I would give it a zero but there's not that option. Record Krate is a record store don't if you are a REAL crate digger. The vibe sucks. The inventory is small and over priced. The owner was rude as all get out...no help what so ever. This is a definite don't. read more

Great selection of used vinyl records, from classic rock to more psych and garage rock, def make a stop here if you're in the area. Free & easy parking in any of the "RP" spots outside. Excellent prices to boot! read more

It doesn't mater what kind of music you like; if it exists on vinyl, you're likely to find it here at some point. Of course you'll find stacks of things in the vein of Dylan, Zeppelin, Rush and the rest of 'The classics' everywhere as usual in most stores, but at Record Krate I've also found Psychic TV, Jesus and Mary Chain, early Ministry and other less 'classic' bands I like, as well as a rich selection of jazz, traditional folk and blues, metal, and modern indie pop. You can also find cassettes, CDs, t shirts, stereo equipment and lots of other music-related and vintage goods! Another aspect of RK I enjoy is how everyone is welcome; I've never felt ignored or like I'm crashing the all-boys clubhouse, a vibe I encounter at far too many record shops, and the proprietor is knowledgeable and helpful without being the music version of Comic Book Guy - another weak point for a lot of music retail businesses. Prices are very fair for the quality of the records; the promo copy of Darklands I picked up recently plays flawlessly and was found at a competitive price compared to online shops (plus I got the joy of the hunt!). It can be difficult to find, parking can be tight, and the space isn't easily navigable via wheelchair (sorry Mom; just give me a list to take in), but take time to drop in and crate dig - who knows what gems you'll uncover! read more

This is a great store and the owner is very knowledgeable and very nice. He remembers his customers and what they like. Very good selection and great prices, especially compared to some other record stores in the area. Highly recommended! read more

Great collection with the potential for a lot of really cool finds. They are also super helpful and friendly. We will definitely come back. Only had time to get through half of the store. read more

What a great store. It's got about 10 collectors selling their duplicates and obscure LP's at very reasonable prices. Even has a 25 cent "honor system" table. Friendly people, good conversation, always good music playing on the turntable and vinyl from 25 cents to $25,000. ....Well, I've just been told that Bill Gates stopped by and purchased that $25K one of a kind V.U. acetate. But still plenty of bargains from 25 cents to $50 or so. Mark - the Triangle. read more

Went to Record Krate to spend some Christmas money. What a great store! Lots of variety, lots of selection, and great expertise - the owner knows his stuff and is very helpful. Everyone came out happy with some great finds! read more

While he hasn't made a constant practice of it, the owner of this business has gradually made it a habit to not only speak down to me but has also made derogatory remarks to me during visits to his store. One would think if you wanted return business, you would be polite to your customers. Unfortunately, this has not been the case here. Because of this, I can not recommend Record Krate. Nor will I be doing business there or suggesting it to others that are hunting for vinyl. Sad, because my initial visits to the store were pleasant. I have had enough of the insults and will be taking my business elsewhere. I sincerely hope others have a better experience. read more

Fantastic selection that gets updated weekly. Always finding someone new and at a fair price. From the "top shelf" (at regular level) to the dollar records a great selection at a good price. read more

I had my collection of 60s and 70s records that I thought was time to get rid of. I took them to Kirk and got a very fair price for them. Plus it was fun to sell them to him. He asked about where I got certain records and brought back many memories. Plus he mentioned that before he would put the records out, he would clean both the record and the cover. Everyone that was in the store at the time seemed be enjoying themselves. read more