Austin Record Convention
Ultimate Guide for Vinyl Enthusiasts
The Austin Record Convention is a highly anticipated event that brings together music enthusiasts and collectors from all over the United States. Held inAustin, Texas, this annual convention is considered the largest sale of recorded music in the country, offering a wide variety of formats ranging from obscure 78s of the 1930s to CDs and other music-related memorabilia.
History and Overview
The Austin Record Convention was founded by Doug Hanners in 1981. It started as a small gathering, originally taking place at Zilker Clubhouse, and was intended as a simple record swap event between friends. However, due to its popularity and greater-than-anticipated attendance, Doug decided to expand the scope of the event. Just a few months later, he relocated the convention to Palmer events center, where it would be hosted for the next 15 years.
Doug's son, Nathan Hanners, has since taken over the organization and continues to grow and maintain the Austin Record Convention as a significant attraction for music collectors and enthusiasts.
Evolution of the Austin Record Show
Over the past four decades, the Austin Record Convention has evolved tremendously, becoming the largest sale of recorded music in the United States. The convention is held twice a year, in the Spring and Fall, in beautiful Austin, Texas - known as the "Live Music Capital of the World". The event attracts dealers, collectors, and aficionados from all over the country and beyond, making it a major hub for music appreciation and activity.
The Austin Record Convention offers a diverse range of music formats, from the 78s of the 1930s to modern CDs. In addition, attendees can find LPs, 45s, cassettes, posters, collectibles, and music-related memorabilia at the event. Records from every genre feature at the convention, with jazz, pop, rock, hip hop and everything in between available. There are over one million unique items available at the convention, making it an unparalleled shopping experience for music lovers.
Throughout its history, the Austin Record Convention has adapted to the constantly changing landscape of recorded music and the resurgence in popularity of vinyl records. Interest in the event is currently at an all-time high, as more music enthusiasts rediscover the charm and quality of classic vinyl records.
Event Details
The highly anticipated Austin Record Convention will be taking place at the Palmer Events Center.
The Fall 2023 convention is scheduled to occur over a weekend. The event starts on Saturday, September 30th, 2023, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., and continues on Sunday, October 1st, 2023, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Ticketing and General Admission
General admission is priced at $5 per person. Tickets can be conveniently purchased on their official website. For those interested in buying or selling items at the event, vendor booths are also available for registration. Early shoppers can make the most of the early-bird discount and enjoy some money off their tickets.
Items on Sale
Types of Music Formats
At the Austin Record Convention, a wide variety of music formats are available for sale. This broad range includes vinyl records, such as 78s, 45s, and LPs. Additionally, shoppers can find CDs, cassettes, and even some rare 8-track tapes. With over a million items on offer, the event caters to music enthusiasts and collectors interested in diverse formats, spanning from the 1930s to the present day.
Some popular formats include:
78 RPM records from the 1930s
45 RPM singles and LPs (Long Play records)
CDs (Compact Discs)
Cassettes
8-track tapes
Music Memorabilia
In addition to various music formats, the convention also features an extensive collection of music-related memorabilia. Guests can browse through and purchase items such as:
Posters
DVDs
Music-related merchandise
These memorabilia pieces serve as valuable additions to any music lover's collection, offering a unique way to cherish and showcase their favorite artists or bands.
For Collectors and Dealers
Collectibles and Rare Finds
The event is a treasure trove for collectors and music enthusiasts, offering a diverse range of collectibles and rare finds. With over one million items such as 78s, 45s, LPs, CDs, and cassettes available, attendees can also expect to find music-related memorabilia spanning across various eras. From the 1930s to the present day, the convention caters to the interests of any music fan.
The event showcases an extensive selection of items which are not limited to just music media formats. Collectors have a chance to discover and purchase posters, merchandise, and other memorabilia, making it a comprehensive destination for music aficionados.
Vendor Information
The convention invites dealers and vendors from all walks of life to participate in the event. Whether you're part of a store, a seasoned collector, or simply someone selling an inherited collection, there is room for you at the convention. The event aims to be accessible for music fans of all kinds.
The convention is held at the Palmer Events Center, offering ample floor space to accommodate the diverse array of record stores and sellers. Vendor spots can be reserved by contacting the Austin Record Convention organizers.
Convention Experience
Social Events
At this popular Austin record show, attendees can enjoy a variety of social events that bring together like-minded music enthusiasts. Many visitors take the opportunity to connect over their shared passion for vinyl records and music memorabilia. Social media platforms like Facebook and Instagram, as well as streaming platforms like Tiktok, are abuzz with excitement as people share their experiences and favourite finds from the convention.
Throughout the show, vendors display an extensive range of music-related merchandise, including t-shirts and other clothing items that cater to various music tastes and genres. These unique items allow attendees to showcase their love for music, collecting, and the overall atmosphere ad experience of the event.
Online Presence
The convention effectively utilises social media platforms, such as Instagram, to reach out to potential attendees and showcase their offerings. By posting engaging content featuring records, artists, and special edition merchandise, the event attracts both collectors and music enthusiasts alike. In addition, the convention encourages guests to use event-specific hashtags for sharing their experiences and purchases, further increasing its visibility on social media.
Platforms:
Instagram: Pictures of rare finds, event updates, and featured vendors
Facebook: Event information, announcements, and RSVP options
Twitter: Quick updates, retweets, and interactions with attendees
Advertising Strategies
The organizers of the event employ a blend of traditional and digital advertising methods to maximize their reach. One strategy involves collaborating with pressing plants and record stores to display promotional materials or distribute flyers to their customers. They also have streaming platforms that leverage text-to-search technology, which makes it easier for users to find details about the event and purchase tickets.
Advertising methods include:
Print advertisements in local newspapers and magazines
Billboards and posters displayed in strategic locations
Radio spots targeted towards a music-loving audience
Sponsored social media posts for better online reach
These advertising efforts help ensure the Austin Record Convention remains a must-attend event for music collectors, fans, and industry professionals year after year.
