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Does Target Sell Records? A Deep Dive for Vinyl Lovers

Yes, Target absolutely sells records. In fact, they are a significant player in the vinyl resurgence, offering a curated selection of albums that caters to both casual listeners and dedicated collectors. Their inventory spans various genres, from classic rock and pop to modern indie and hip-hop, making them a convenient and accessible option for purchasing vinyl records.

Target’s Vinyl Selection: What to Expect

Target’s approach to selling vinyl is, in a word, accessible. They aim to reach a broad audience, which is reflected in the selection of records they stock. Don’t expect to find ultra-rare pressings or obscure experimental music here. Instead, you’ll discover:

Popular and Classic Albums: Think **Fleetwood Mac’s *Rumours, **Pink Floyd’s *Dark Side of the Moon, Michael Jackson’s Thriller, and other evergreen albums that remain perennially popular. These are the staples that attract both newcomers to vinyl and seasoned collectors looking to fill gaps in their collections.
New Releases and Current Artists: Target keeps up with contemporary music, stocking vinyl versions of albums from popular artists across genres. This includes pop sensations like Taylor Swift and Billie Eilish, alongside indie darlings and rising stars in hip-hop and R&B.
Exclusive Editions and Colored Vinyl: This is where Target shines. They frequently offer exclusive versions of albums on colored vinyl, sometimes with alternate artwork or bonus tracks. These limited editions are highly sought after by collectors and often sell out quickly.
Soundtracks: Movie and television soundtracks are another common feature of Target’s vinyl section. Expect to find soundtracks from popular films, animated movies, and even television series, offering a nostalgic trip down memory lane for fans.
Turntables and Accessories: To further entice the vinyl curious, Target also sells turntables, record sleeves, cleaning kits, and other accessories. This makes them a one-stop-shop for anyone looking to start or expand their vinyl collection.

Where to Find Records in Target Stores and Online

Finding records at Target is generally straightforward, but here’s a breakdown of where to look:

In-Store: Most Target stores have a dedicated music section, usually located near the electronics or movies. Within this section, you’ll find the vinyl records displayed on shelves or in dedicated racks. The size of the vinyl section can vary depending on the store’s size and layout.
Online: Target.com offers a much wider selection of vinyl records than most physical stores. You can easily browse by genre, artist, or new releases. The website also allows you to filter for exclusive editions and colored vinyl, making it easier to find those sought-after items.
Check Clearance Sections: Occasionally, you might find vinyl records in the clearance section, often at heavily discounted prices. This is a great way to snag a bargain, but selection is limited and varies by store.

Tips for Buying Records at Target

Check Online First: Before heading to a physical store, check Target.com to see if the record you’re looking for is in stock. You can also check the in-stock status at specific stores near you.
Look for Damage: Carefully inspect the record packaging for any signs of damage, such as bent corners, tears, or scratches. While minor imperfections are sometimes unavoidable, you want to ensure the record itself is in good condition.
Read Reviews: Before buying a record, especially online, read reviews from other customers. This can give you an idea of the sound quality and pressing quality of the record.
Take Advantage of RedCard Benefits: If you have a Target RedCard, you can save 5% on your purchases, including vinyl records. This can add up to significant savings over time.

Target and the Vinyl Renaissance: A Symbiotic Relationship

Target’s embrace of vinyl records has played a significant role in the ongoing vinyl renaissance. By making records readily available to a mass audience, they’ve helped to introduce a new generation to the joys of analog listening. Their focus on exclusive editions and colored vinyl has also fueled the collector market, driving demand and contributing to the overall growth of the vinyl industry.

In conclusion, Target is a valuable resource for anyone interested in buying vinyl records, offering a diverse selection, convenient shopping options, and occasional exclusive editions that appeal to both casual listeners and dedicated collectors.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Here are some frequently asked questions about buying vinyl records at Target:

1. Does Target carry rare vinyl records?

Generally, no. Target focuses on mainstream and popular albums, new releases, and exclusive editions. You are unlikely to find rare or vintage vinyl records at Target. For those, specialized record stores or online marketplaces are better options.

2. Can I return a record to Target if I don’t like it?

Yes, Target’s standard return policy applies to vinyl records. You can return most records within 90 days of purchase, provided you have the receipt and the record is in good condition. However, opened music, movies, and video games can only be exchanged for the exact same title, in the same format, if defective.

3. Does Target price match vinyl records?

Target does offer price matching on vinyl records. They will match prices from select online retailers and local competitors. Check Target’s official price match policy for specific details and exclusions.

4. Are the records at Target good quality?

The quality of vinyl records at Target is generally comparable to records sold at other major retailers. However, pressing quality can vary depending on the specific album and manufacturer. Reading online reviews can help you assess the quality before making a purchase.

5. Does Target offer any discounts on vinyl records?

Yes, Target frequently offers discounts on vinyl records, especially during sales events like Black Friday and Cyber Monday. Keep an eye out for these promotions, as well as clearance sales and RedCard benefits.

6. Can I order vinyl records online from Target and pick them up in-store?

Yes, Target offers in-store pickup for many items, including vinyl records. This is a convenient option if you want to ensure the record is in stock before making a trip to the store.

7. Does Target sell record players (turntables)?

Yes, Target sells a variety of record players, ranging from entry-level models to more advanced turntables. They also sell accessories like record sleeves, cleaning kits, and replacement needles.

8. How often does Target update its vinyl record selection?

Target regularly updates its vinyl record selection, adding new releases and popular albums. The frequency of updates can vary, but you can generally expect to see new arrivals every week or two.

9. Does Target sell 45 RPM records (singles)?

While Target primarily focuses on LPs (33 1/3 RPM), they occasionally carry 45 RPM singles, particularly around special events like Record Store Day (even though Target isn’t an official participant, they might stock associated releases).

10. Can I use a Target gift card to buy vinyl records?

Yes, you can use a Target gift card to purchase vinyl records, both in-store and online.

11. Does Target ship vinyl records internationally?

Target’s international shipping options are limited. While they ship to some countries, the availability of vinyl records for international shipping may vary. Check Target.com for the most up-to-date information on international shipping.

12. What happens if the vinyl record I ordered from Target arrives damaged?

If the vinyl record you ordered from Target arrives damaged, you can return it for a refund or exchange. Contact Target’s customer service to initiate the return process. Take photos of the damage to the packaging and the record itself to support your claim.