The Waterloo Records is a pretty nice spot though I admit it misses a little bit of the charm the original had and replaces it with a more modern feeling. I don't fault Waterloo for that because they were asked to leave. The place is great and their collection is awesome just like the originally. I really think they just picked up their stock and moved it. It is in a great spot, they do great events with artists from in-store performances to listening parties, and I feel that they have so many great collections in genres that some record stores don't have like in electronic music and jazz. The genres represented at Waterloo are always eclectic and their stock is always pretty substantial. My wallet always hurts after visiting, but that's part of record collecting. RIYL: Record hunting read more

Waterloo Records & Video - sign - Music & DVDs Near Me - Austin, Texas

At first, I didn't want to bring it up, but the more I think about it the more annoyed I am, so I really hope the management/whoever was in charge of it sees and pays attention to the feedback. Last week, for 3/20, the store organized a listening party for BTS' new album "ARIRANG." The way it was presented on social media, it seemed like a fun event for the local ARMYs (fandom name) to attend and have fun together. This release is significant to us because it was the first comeback after a long hiatus. It was highly anticipated and people were genuinely stoked and excited. So when you see a local business organize an event, you want to be there and celebrate with people who share the love to this group. Calling it a listening party was an overstatement. You stand in line to register for a raffle. The girl who ran the raffle seemed like she didn't even want be there. She mentioned that people need to write names and last 4 digits of a phone number, which was odd (normally people ask for a full number or email) and she seemed irritated when I was confused about the last 4 digits. By the looks of it, it was under 100 people who were there specifically for the occasion (aside from just customers browsing), not a crazy crowd. So it shouldn't be that difficult to prepare for such a large business. Yet it felt not just underwhelming, but more like no effort was put into it at all. Most fan-organized events gather more people than that and they are in no way a well-known business with a budget and staff. The freebies ran out 10 minutes after stated start time, the CDs sold out even before that, no vinyl for this release was available, I was told they wouldn't get it. A raffle prize was a bootleg canvas print which the girl who ran the raffle announced as "official from the BTS label." Big Hit never released such item for this album merch lineup. Absoluetely nothing against fan-made merch, this community is super welcoming and encouraging to it. However, transparency matters. Overall, equally not a good look whether it was intentionally misrepresented as official item OR just ignorance about the matter. Nothing was done to create an exciting event and engage people who might have turned down other plans to attend this "listening party." Once dropped your name for the raffle, you just wait around and maybe flip through the records while the new album plays on the background (not even very loud). That's it. I can do that on any random Tuesday - come to the store and flip through records while listening to music on my headphones. If you don't know what to do but want to organize an event worth attending, connect with local fans! There's a whole community of enthusiasts in the city (and online) of people who regularly organize fan events locally and would be stoked to do this. It would've been less frustrating if Waterloo just ignored this release and did nothing. At the end of the day, kpop community wouldn't expect a business that doesn't specialize on kpop to participate in celebrating this new album. This "event" was a huge disappointment and a great example of what happens when non-enthusiasts try to capitalize on something they have no clue about. read more

Waterloo Records & Video - Music & DVDs Near Me - Austin, Texas

I've spent about a third of my yearly paycheck at this place for the past two decades. Not because this place is extraordinary, but mostly because they keep their shelves stocked and up to date, and because they're so close to my neighborhood. Besides being convenient, I really try to avoid Waterloo whenever I can. Looking back, I can't think of any positive experience I've had with any of the staff. Most of the staff try to ignore you, act cold and unfriendly, and seem bothered if you ask for help. I have only had a few positive interactions with the man who I think is the owner. Usually I try to go to somewhere else like Breakaway or End of an Ear instead. read more

Had to hit up a record store while in Austin and Waterloo was the one that popped up closest to where I was staying. This place is huge. It has a bar and a stage in it. There was someone performing in there but I don't know what her name is. Records range in price. I didn't see many used records but they have some of everything. Great place to come hang out and crate dig and if you're lucky you might even get a show like we did. read more

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Finally got a chance to see the new Waterloo Records and it's awesome. Definitely weird to not be on 6th and Lamar after all the memories of that location. They had an in-store signing from The Format and though the line was long it was handled really well, and the tunes were perfect for the vibe. Wish I played actual records and could give Waterloo some of my hard earned cash! read more

Actually found some good finds at a good price this time! They seemed to have moved the discount metal at the end of all the other metal this time. Come visit the Sabrina carpenter cut out while it's still here. read more

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The selection was abundant, lots of good used cds and MOST are priced fairly. What I will say is that the service is not the strongest. Not too sure what is happening behind the scenes but you will either find the kindest person ever or somebody who absolutely hates their job. Not the type to leave reviews but with the past few experiences here I thought it was necessary. Great store! Bad service; they aren't judging your music taste they just want to go home. read more

If you enjoy music, this is your place. They just moved at the end of August into a huge new location. We went on 8/31 and they were packed with people. Waterloo has a wide variety of records, with so many Indie options. I wish we had this selection in Dallas. We restrained ourselves by walking out with only 12 new records. We were like kids in a candy store, so many options. They also have plenty of used records. They had lots of cash registers and staff walking around to assist in finding records. read more

Great selections of records and other novelty items. They have record players for sale of different kinds from vintage to modern. Well labeled and organized shelves. From Hamilton to rare soul. And so much more. Plenty of parking and conveniently located near Whole Foods and a diner. I wasn't sure if this used to be an old diner spot and got sold. Cool place for record collections. read more

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TOP SHELF ALL THE WAY! The people who work here are amazing. Customer service is off the chain. I could not be at the store for the Die Spitz debut album release and live set at Waterloo. The staff made sure I received a copy of a VERY limited release and even asked the band to sign it. Could not recommend this store more. read more

Waterloo Records & Video - Waterloo Crushed It! - Music & DVDs Near Me - Austin, Texas

This place rules, records and cds I've never seen physically all in one place. Staff was cool and there was a show ending when I showed up at the back of the store. If you're looking for something specific (especially rock/ classic rock or jazz ) this is the place, as long as your willing to buy new records which can be a little pricey but that's true of any store, I digress. VISIT WATERLOO RECORDS read more

It seems to be a pretty complete record store. Its exactly what you were hoping to find. I also like that they have something for everybody in every price points. Looking for new records? Got em! Looking for a record player? Yep! Looking for a discount bin? They have a wall! They keep it simple, but make it big like Texas. Good stuff! I will return! read more

The selection is great and very vast. I gave a 2 star rating because looking back on the times I have actually had to interact with the people behind the counter, they always seem to be in a bad mood. Whenever im coming and buying a record and leaving without saying a word it's fine, but when I actually have to talk to them, they always seem peeved by anything I ask. Again great selection, but the employees always seem upset and unwelcoming to beginners/newbies unsure of record specifics. Not a fun experience for a newbie to record playing in general. read more

Amazing selection of LP's CD's in iconic location in Austin. All self service, very friendly staff at the he central checkout. They both buy sand sell previously used media ad well. Parking available tight in front. read more

Waterloo Records & Video - Waterloo Music Austin - Music & DVDs Near Me - Austin, Texas

What a great spot, lots of record selection, turntables, and other memorabilia! Staff is chill and I've only had good encounters thus far. Prices are in line with other brick and mortar and online shops. read more

Cool record store. Unacceptable behavior during a listening party they threw. The one I am referring to is the TØP listening party, it's a live stream so they can't pause it -- despite this, some genius had the idea to talk over complete songs holding a raffle for PRE-sales. Over one full song, and then over other portions of other songs --killed the vibe and alienated the audience. The announcer started doing crowdwork over the protests of the crowd during a song. "I know y'all want me to get down" --Yes, yes we did. At the end they were able to correct --by doing the obvious thing -- and just displaying the number drawn....at the second to last song, and also requiring a final announcement over the artists words. Come here and get a good record. I still found the one I was looking for that night! read more

Suggestion. Next time someone calls to ask about your exchange policy on used vinyl records, maybe mention you need to have a physical ID on you. You wasted a four hour round trip. I've spend thousands here and you will no longer be receiving my money. Thank you read more

Huge record store located on 6th St with extensive and well organized collection of vinyls, CDs and videos. We checked out the indie section and was pleasantly surprised that they carry the Wild Nothing album which was just released. read more

Waterloo Records & Video - Music & DVDs Near Me - Austin, Texas

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Really well stocked and organized vinyl/record store located just west of downtown Austin on 6th. Lots of indie in here including the Beach House, Wild Nothing, Alvvays etc. the store is very clean and organized compared to some vinyl stores that we've visited in Houston and it's a really generous size considering its location. read more

Waterloo Records & Video - Music & DVDs Near Me - Austin, Texas

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Fantastic selection, great environment, and always make an effort to come here whenever I'm in town. This past visit, I had a rude encounter with the owner of the store. The rest of the staff was helpful and friendly, and let me know if they needed to get past for stocking as any normal person would (calmly!). Once I went into the backroom to look at more records, flipping through a section, I was suddenly barked at to move without any thought to ask nicely--can't read minds, unfortunately. Maybe wait to stock until people have cleared the spot you need, like how everyone but him did all day? No one was around but me, so it was a real life or death situation. It makes me hesitant to walk around and browse anymore, something everyone's bound to do here, the future new location, or any great record store. Give customers some grace. Maybe he was having a bad day, would like to think so. read more

If you're a vinyl lover like me, please check out Waterloo Records. This store is vinyl and video heaven! The wide variety of record genres available is incredible! The staff is knowledgeable and is willing to help you find any record. I almost always make a purchase when I come to this store. This place is a sanctuary! I would recommend Waterloo to any music lover and record collector. read more

Waterloo Records & Video - Music & DVDs Near Me - Austin, Texas

Coolest record shop in Texas. During my last visit, my dad said, "If Waterloo doesn't have it, you don't need it." The selection is huge. There's a variety of CD's, records, cassettes, DVD's, Blurays, etc. There's something for everyone! Whether you're looking for something obscure or more mainstream, it's probably there! If not, you'll definitely find something else that'll peak your interest. During the pandemic, there is an occupancy limit. They're at a 10 people capacity so expect to wait in line. It's worth waiting, though--you get all the browsing space you need. An Austin icon! read more

Stopped by as I was walking through downtown because I'm working on building my record collection. They have CDs, DVDs and tons of records to chose from. It's broken out by genre and even have a section for sales. Definitely family friendly and appeared that they allow animals as well. Will definitely be returning to add to my collection! read more

Waterloo Records & Video - Music & DVDs Near Me - Austin, Texas

This place was not as big as i would have expected from an iconic record store. The records are priced about the same as every other record store i have been to but i was able to find a a record that i could not find anywhere else. The staff was friendly and helpful. read more

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This record store has everything! A tone of varieties of vinyls to choose from classics and new. The pricing seemed a bit high but they do have some sale bins to dig through. I loved the employee recommendations. My only complaint was the A/C was lacking o this 100+ heat so I'd recommend going when it's cooler so you don't sweat while you shop read more

Grand Daddy of Austin record stores. Massive selection of new vinyl, t-shirts and CD's. Good, regular stock of well priced second hand vinyl. Highly recommend on ANY visit to Austin. read more

Waterloo Baby! A excellent longtime Austin Treasure. Record Store Deluxe a massive collection of records and anything related to music. Parking is tough if you're not from Austin. Worth a Visit the service and organization is impeccable. They love what they Do! read more

My first time here I loved it! I did come on a weekend so there was a lot of people as expected , I was a bit overwhelmed but that's what the weekend is! I LOVE that its organized by genre and you can see the name of the artist, the prices are very reasonable if I lived here I would go there for all my vinyl purchases , the only thing is the staff isn't very helpful and i understand, I have social anxiety and get kinda anxious when staff is on me about help but I needed help and they were only available behind the desk. But I loved it, think this is a place I will go to every time I'm in Austin! read more

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When was the last time you were in an authentic record shop??? For my husband and I, it had been years!! Imagine our surprise to happen upon this super rad record shop with actual records, cassettes, CDs, band tees, gag gifts, record players, and more! If you're looking for different forms of music, this place is it!! read more

This store has an excellent source of records , movies and novelty items. The workers are very friendly and knowledgeable. I give it one less star because they do not have public restrooms. I am a care taker for my dad that is battling cancer and I often have him with me. It's very inconvenient I'm expected to bug another business so he can use their facilities. There is another record store in Austin called End of An Ear that have public restrooms. I know go here because it's easier for me to shop at a store that my elderly father can use their restroom if he needed to. read more

Store is very well stocked, especially with new albums. Of nearly 10 stores in the Austin area I visited this trip they had the most new stock and variety of new stock. Prices on the new stock were generally reasonable. They had one of the two titles I was hoping to find, and it was priced all right. I picked up a couple of markdowns that were good deals too. There are some used albums, but what I saw wasn't really priced to move. Somebody who wants that particular title would pay that price, but not a browser with broad interests. I could have bought a few used titles but passed. Overall I'd say you have to stop here though if you're visiting from out of town, you're bound to find something, they've got so much. read more

We were visiting Austin from Omaha and believe it or not Omaha is blessed with some great record stores including Homers, vinyl Cup, Kanesville Kollectibles, and many more. I noticed this place was ranked highly nationally and had to check it out. I am so glad I did. The establishment was super organized and the record selection was pretty decent. Not a ton of rarities but basically everything you could ask for in a record store. One thing I noticed was the prices were lower on new and used records than any of our Omaha stores by about 10 bucks which was awesome! I grabbed one record that I rarely see in person , 13th Floor Elevators, and a cool T-shirt! Great record shop for sure! read more

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The record store is absolutely amazing in selection, it's a lot cheaper than Amazon in both new and used records. Plus there's a free parking lot right at the storefront for the restaurant and record store. I got a few records for an excellent price, plus they sell record players there. They also sell cassettes and cds. read more

What a legendary shop. Super deep catalog and tons of interesting used stock. If it were easier to travel with records I would have dropped quite a bit here. Being a record shop tourist I bought a coffee mug, badge and they gave me a stack of stickers. If I lived in Austin this would definitely be on my circuit of record shops. read more

My little bro & I loved it here. We couldn't have had a better time. There are plenty of CDs & LPs to go through. The layout is like 2 buildings joined into 1. The first half if you will, is CDs, DVDs, nick nacks, some shirts, & other things while the other half is all vinyl plus more shirts, other vinyl related media, posters & such. We only had about an hour to try to take it all in, but we still came away with some real jewels. It reminds me of what I love most about music shops. No matter how much of my life I spend immersed in music, these great shops still have things I've never seen before. Like these 2 Stray Cat albums - I thought I knew my stuff until I ran into this pair I'd never seen before! I had to be sure to pick a couple of good shirts too. They had numerous I'd never seen before including a fantastic Blondie one I chose. Plus, their own merch is really something - they have their own shirts in quite the variety, mugs, socks though they had just sold out, & more. Got to respect the work toward the brand! I loved it enough that I made an account online so I can stay linked & bought myself another shirt from there since it looks like I picked up one of mine in the wrong size by mistake. The shirts are in drawers / bins for you to grab at your will so it's my mistake completely. I live out of town from Waterloo so hopefully this way I can stay connected! Thank you thank you! I hope to make it back sometime. Here's a few photos read more

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Yep, love it. It's a great store wish they had a wider selection at times but honestly they do a great job so no complaints really. Love the vibe and the staff are friendly. Happy to see it survived the pandemic as a business it's an austin staple read more

Came here for the Barbie listening party (they were giving away goodies) it was a vibe here. they have a large and good selection of records. The employees there are also beyond. A great vibe this place has. read more

This is the go-to vinyl shop in Austin. Lots of records that are both used and new. I had mixed experiences with the staff. Some are helpful and others ignored me completely even though I directly made eye contact and asked a question. Oh well - not everyone was born with manners. I did find a lot of cool albums that I had on my want list; so ultimately I left happy. I also found an awesome travel record bag for future use! I did note that parking is terrible here being that it is close to downtown. If you end up parking in the street be mindful that you have limited time. Pricing was high in that it reflects the higher range on the used items compared to different online sites and local area locations. read more

I love this place. My only complaint is they have too many amazing records and I spend too much money there!

I entered "best place to sell cds in Austin," came up with Waterloo. Might be the case, but reality is they only give 50 cents or a dollar for good cds, so you might just want to donate to Salvation Army or St. Vincent DePaul. read more