Yes.
End of Post.
In all seriousness though, we are forever asked "Is vinyl actually better than streaming?" "Why is it better?" "There can't be that much difference?" so we've decided to give you the answers.
In an age where streaming services put millions of songs at our fingertips, vinyl continues to make a massive comeback. But why do so many music lovers swear by vinyl when streaming is more convenient? The answer lies in the unique experience that records offer—from superior sound quality to collectability, to the elaborate packaging and tangibility, and the deeper artist support. Let’s break down why vinyl is better than streaming, though streaming of course has its place.
1. The Sound Quality Advantage
Streaming services offer convenience, but they compress audio files to save bandwidth. This means that when you listen to music on Spotify, Apple Music, or YouTube, you're hearing a compressed version of the original recording, which can strip away certain frequencies and depth.
Vinyl, on the other hand, is an analog format, meaning it captures the full range of soundwaves as they were originally recorded. The result? A richer, warmer, and more dynamic listening experience—one that audiophiles and casual listeners alike notice immediately when they drop the needle on a turntable. This is what creates those moments when you listen to that track that you've heard thousands of times before but suddenly hear something new in the depths of the track.
2. The Joy of Tangible Goods & Collectability
Owning a record is an experience in itself. Unlike a digital playlist, a record collection is a physical representation of your musical taste. The large album artwork, liner notes, and sometimes even special edition pressings make each record a unique and valuable item.
Collecting vinyl is can also be an investment. Some rare or limited-edition pressings increase in value over time, making them highly sought after by collectors. With streaming, you never truly “own” the music—you’re just renting access to it. Vinyl can never be changed, that music exists forever - and you own it.
3. Vinyl Supports Artists More
Streaming services pay artists fractions of a penny per stream, making it incredibly difficult for musicians to earn a sustainable income. Vinyl sales, however, contribute significantly more to an artist’s revenue.
Not only do records generate more profit per album sold, but they also help artists chart on the Billboard 200 and Official Charts, keeping physical music sales relevant in the industry. By buying vinyl, you're directly supporting the musicians you love. For every record bought, that album need to be streamed 100 times (or more depending on the platform) to have the same charting impact, so you really are showing your support for the artists by choosing their records.
4. The Lost Art of Albums & Music Culture
Streaming has shifted listening habits towards singles and playlists, often reducing an artist’s album to a handful of popular tracks. But albums are more than just collections of songs—they are curated experiences meant to be listened to from start to finish.
Vinyl brings back the lost art of album listening, encouraging you to sit down, place a record on the turntable, and experience the music as the artist intended. It fosters a deeper connection to the music and a sense of ritual that streaming simply doesn’t offer.
5. Where Streaming Has Its Advantages
While vinyl offers a superior experience, streaming still plays an important role. Services like Spotify and Apple Music allow you to discover new music instantly, which is incredibly useful when deciding whether to invest in a new album on vinyl.
Streaming is also unbeatable when it comes to convenience. You can take your favourite songs anywhere—whether you’re at the gym, commuting, or traveling. The ability to explore music on the go and then come home to your records creates the best of both worlds.
Final Thoughts: Vinyl Wins, But Streaming Has Its Place
At the end of the day, vinyl and streaming don’t have to be competitors—they can complement each other. Streaming gives you access to an endless music library, while vinyl offers an unmatched listening experience, collectability, and artist support.
If you love music, why not enjoy both? Use streaming to discover new albums, and when you find something truly special, invest in the vinyl for the full experience. After all, nothing beats the feeling of dropping the needle and immersing yourself in the sound of a record.