Last Updated: January 1, 2026
From legendary shops operating since 1979 to hip Hintonburg destinations with live performances, Ottawa’s vinyl scene proves that physical music is alive and thriving in the digital age.
The capital’s record store culture spans independent shops with 250,000-item inventories to curated boutiques specializing in rare pressings. Whether you’re hunting for a pristine Beatles first pressing, expanding your hip-hop collection, or discovering local artists on vinyl, Ottawa’s music merchants offer expertise and selection that streaming services simply cannot replicate.
Key Highlights
TL;DR: The Record Centre in Hintonburg offers the most curated experience with live performances. Legend Records holds the title of oldest (since 1979) and largest inventory (250,000+ items). Vertigo Records specializes in rock, punk, and hip-hop. Most shops are on Bank Street or Wellington West, open daily with extended hours Thursday-Friday.
| Quick Facts | Details |
|---|---|
| 🏆 Oldest Shop | Legend Records (since 1979) |
| 🎵 Largest Inventory | Legend Records (250,000+ items) |
| 📍 Main Districts | Bank Street, Wellington West |
| 💰 Price Range | $4-80 (common) to $160+ (rare) |
| ⏰ Typical Hours | 10 AM-6 PM daily, extended Thu-Fri |
| 🎸 Live Music | The Record Centre (in-store shows) |
The Record Centre - Hintonburg’s Music Hub
The Record Centre doubles as a venue for intimate live performances
Address: 1099 Wellington Street West, Ottawa, ON Phone: 613-695-4577 Website: therecordcentre.com Hours: Mon-Sat 10 AM-6 PM, Sun 12-4 PM
The Record Centre has established itself as Ottawa’s premier vinyl destination since opening in 2011. Located in the heart of Hintonburg, this shop combines an exceptional music selection with a community-focused approach that includes regular in-store live performances.
The Collection
Over 20,000 records span genres from classic rock and jazz to contemporary pop and indie. The shelves feature iconic artists like The Beatles, Black Sabbath, and David Bowie alongside current releases from Chappell Roan, Charli XCX, and Dua Lipa.
Beyond the Vinyl
The shop stocks a comprehensive selection of audio equipment, from entry-level turntables to premium headphones and speakers. Both new and pre-loved gear is available, making this a one-stop destination for building your home listening setup.
Live Music
What truly distinguishes The Record Centre is its function as an intimate music venue. The shop hosts regular in-store performances from local and touring artists, creating experiences that connect customers directly with the music.
Pro Tip: Check their social media for upcoming in-store performances. These intimate shows offer a unique way to discover new artists while browsing vinyl.
For more Hintonburg exploration, see our Hintonburg neighbourhood guide.
Legend Records - The Original Since 1979
Legend Records boasts Ottawa’s largest selection of used vinyl
Address: 1292 Wellington Street West, Unit 200, Ottawa, ON K1Y 3A1 Phone: 613-596-5766 Website: legendrecords.ca Hours: Mon-Wed 11 AM-5 PM, Thu-Sat 11 AM-6 PM, Sun 12-5 PM
Legend Records holds the distinction of being Ottawa’s oldest continuously operating record shop, serving collectors since 1979. With over 5,000 square feet of retail space across two locations, they boast the largest selection of used vinyl records in the Ottawa area.
The Inventory
An staggering 250,000 items populate Legend’s shelves, including:
- New and used vinyl records
- CDs, cassettes, and even 8-tracks
- DVDs, VHS, and laserdiscs
- Reconditioned stereo equipment
The collection spans every imaginable genre, from vintage Aretha Franklin and Elton John pressings to new releases like Olivia Rodrigo and Chappell Roan.
Organization
Unlike some chaotic dig-through shops, Legend keeps everything tidy and well-categorized. Genre sections are clearly marked, making it easy to find specific artists or browse by style.
The Discount Bin
Serious savings await in the discount section, where most records are marked down 25% with some reaching half price. Patient diggers often uncover gems among the reduced-price offerings.
Pro Tip: Free parking adjacent to the shop means you can spend hours browsing without worrying about meters. Plan accordingly—the inventory depth rewards extended visits.
Vertigo Records - Bank Street’s Rock Haven
Vertigo Records specializes in rock, punk, metal, and hip-hop
Address: 1208 Bank Street, Ottawa, ON K1S 3Y1 Phone: 613-241-1011 Website: vertigorecords.ca Hours: Mon-Sat 11 AM-6 PM, Sun 12-5 PM
Since 2003, Vertigo Records has been Bank Street’s go-to destination for rock, punk, metal, and hip-hop. With over 20,000 pieces in their ever-growing inventory, serious collectors and casual browsers alike find plenty to explore.
Genre Strengths
Vertigo’s expertise lies in heavier and alternative genres:
- Rock & Metal: From classic Sabbath to modern doom
- Punk: Ramones, Dead Kennedys, and beyond
- Hip-Hop: Wu-Tang, Tribe Called Quest, underground gems
- Indie/Alternative: Radiohead, Arcade Fire, and local acts
They also stock a respectable selection of local Ottawa artists, supporting the city’s homegrown music scene.
Services
Beyond browsing, Vertigo offers:
- Special orders: Request specific records at no extra cost
- Vinyl/CD buyback: Sell your collection for cash
- Turntables and accessories: Audio equipment for every budget
- Concert tickets: Purchase tickets for local shows
Pro Tip: If you’re looking for a specific record they don’t have in stock, request a special order. There’s no additional charge, and they’ll notify you when it arrives.
For sellers with large collections (50+ items), call ahead—they have daily purchasing limits.
Compact Music - Family-Run Excellence
Compact Music has served Ottawa music lovers for nearly 30 years
Address: 785 Bank Street, Ottawa, ON K1S 3V5 Phone: 613-233-8922 Website: compactmusic.ca Hours: Mon-Wed & Sat 10 AM-6 PM, Thu-Fri 10 AM-8 PM, Sun 11 AM-6 PM
This family-run institution has operated for nearly 30 years, building a reputation for knowledgeable staff and quality over quantity. While the 40,000-record collection may seem modest compared to larger shops, the curation here is exceptional.
Curated Selection
Compact Music covers the essentials across genres:
- Rock and indie standards
- Jazz classics and contemporary
- Pop hits old and new
- Unique specialty: Film soundtracks and holiday music
The soundtrack collection sets Compact apart, featuring everything from Guardians of the Galaxy to Moana to Barbie—perfect for collectors with cinematic tastes.
Staff Knowledge
The real value here is expertise. Staff members genuinely know music and take time to help customers find what they’re seeking—or introduce them to something completely new.
Pre-Orders
For limited edition releases, Compact offers pre-order services. Reserve highly sought-after vinyl before release to guarantee your copy.
Pro Tip: Email them at [email protected] or call if you’re hunting for a specific record not in the physical store. Staff will help track it down with prices negotiable based on rarity.
Baked Goods - Rare Finds on Baseline
Baked Goods specializes in rare pressings and vintage equipment
Address: 2561 Baseline Road, Ottawa, ON K2H 7B3 Phone: 613-596-0619 Website: bakedgoods613.ca Hours: Tue-Sat 11 AM-7 PM, Sun 12-5 PM (Closed Mondays)
For collectors chasing rare pressings and vintage equipment, Baked Goods delivers treasures you won’t find elsewhere in Ottawa. This indie shop near Algonquin College specializes in hard-to-find vinyl, classic stereos, and music memorabilia.
Specialty Items
Baked Goods excels in:
- Rare pressings: First editions, limited runs, imports
- Blues, funk, and hip-hop: Deep cuts and classics
- Vintage audio equipment: Restored turntables, amps, speakers
- Memorabilia: Posters, art, collectibles
Prized items like People Under The Stairs vinyl or Notorious B.I.G.’s “Ready To Die” can reach $160, but budget-conscious shoppers find CDs starting at $10.
Selling Your Collection
Wednesdays are designated for appraisals. Bring your vinyl, tapes, or equipment for evaluation—but call ahead to confirm staff availability.
Pro Tip: The location near Algonquin College makes this convenient for students, and prices remain reasonable despite the rare finds on offer.
The Turning Point - Budget-Friendly Classics
The Turning Point offers vinyl at wallet-friendly prices
Address: 411 Cooper Street, Ottawa, ON K2P 0H1 Phone: 613-230-4586 Hours: Mon-Sat 10 AM-6 PM, Sun 1-5 PM
Operating since the early 1980s, The Turning Point has become legendary among Ottawa’s budget-conscious collectors. This homely shop on Cooper Street specializes in buying, selling, and trading used records at prices that won’t empty your wallet.
Affordable Pricing
Regular records here range from a modest $4 to $10—significantly below market rates at other shops. Vinyl albums cost more but remain competitively priced. This makes The Turning Point ideal for:
- New collectors building foundational libraries
- Explorers sampling unfamiliar genres
- Bargain hunters on tight budgets
The Experience
The shop maintains a relaxed, unpretentious atmosphere where browsing feels unhurried. Multi-genre selections in both vinyl and CD formats mean something for every taste.
Pro Tip: Follow their social media for sales and promotions, particularly around holidays when seasonal deals appear.
The ODDs & SODs Shoppe - Quirky and Unique
The ODDs & SODs Shoppe offers quirky finds alongside quality vinyl
Address: 1400 Clyde Avenue, Unit 8, Nepean, ON K2G 3J2 (Bleeker Mall) Phone: 613-225-9027 Website: oddsandsodsshoppe.com Hours: Mon-Fri 10 AM-7 PM, Sat 10 AM-6 PM, Sun 11 AM-5 PM
True to its name, The ODDs & SODs Shoppe embraces eclectic charm. This Nepean destination offers vinyl alongside vintage turntables, band merchandise, and quirky memorabilia that serious and casual collectors alike will appreciate.
Beyond the Records
While jazz, pop, metal, rock, and hip-hop fill the bins, unique finds distinguish this shop:
- Textile posters of album covers
- Vintage band t-shirts
- Music-themed puzzles
- Retro turntables and equipment
Film, TV, and Broadway soundtracks also feature prominently, including artists like The Doors, Elvis Presley, Frank Sinatra, and Otis Redding.
Pricing
Records typically range from $20-70, with online shoppers enjoying free shipping on orders over $150 before taxes.
Pro Tip: Don’t overlook the memorabilia section. Vintage posters, equipment, and collectibles make perfect gifts for music lovers in your life.
Sunrise Records - The Chain Option
Sunrise Records offers mainstream selection with chain-store convenience
Address: Carlingwood Mall, 2121 Carling Avenue, Ottawa, ON K2A 1H2 Phone: 613-792-3865 Website: sunriserecords.com Hours: Mon-Fri 10 AM-8 PM, Sat 9:30 AM-6 PM, Sun 11 AM-5 PM
Since 1977, Sunrise Records has provided mainstream music retail across Canada. The Carlingwood location offers vinyl, CDs, and cassettes spanning Taylor Swift to AC/DC—plus one of Ottawa’s best K-pop selections.
What to Expect
As a chain store, Sunrise delivers:
- New releases on or before street date
- Mainstream artists across all genres
- Extensive K-pop selection (BTS, Seventeen, LE SSERAFIM)
- Audio equipment (speakers, headphones)
Prices range from $18-80 depending on format and rarity. Treasured copies include “Can I Take My Hounds to Heaven” and “Voodoo Lounge Uncut.”
Promotions
Free shipping applies to online orders over $100. The chain also runs regular contests with prizes including guitars and signed CDs.
Best For: New releases, K-pop, and shoppers who prefer mall convenience over independent shop atmosphere.
Tips for Vinyl Shopping in Ottawa
Proper storage and handling preserve your vinyl investment
Building Your Collection
For Beginners:
- Start at The Turning Point for affordable classics
- Invest in a decent turntable before buying expensive vinyl
- Build gradually—focus on albums you’ll actually play
For Serious Collectors:
- Develop relationships with shop staff for first dibs on arrivals
- Visit Legend Records for depth and Baked Goods for rarity
- Check condition carefully before purchasing expensive pressings
Condition Grading
Understanding vinyl condition saves money and disappointment:
| Grade | Description | Typical Discount |
|---|---|---|
| Mint (M) | Perfect, unplayed | Premium pricing |
| Near Mint (NM) | Almost perfect, minimal signs | Full price |
| Very Good Plus (VG+) | Light marks, plays well | 10-20% off |
| Very Good (VG) | Visible wear, some noise | 30-50% off |
| Good (G) | Heavy wear, noise throughout | 60%+ off |
Selling Your Records
Most Ottawa shops buy used vinyl:
- Vertigo: Call ahead for 50+ items
- Baked Goods: Appraisals on Wednesdays
- The Turning Point: Active buy/sell/trade
- Legend Records: Large collection specialists
Record Store Map
Bank Street Cluster:
- Vertigo Records (1208 Bank)
- Compact Music (785 Bank)
Wellington West:
- The Record Centre (1099 Wellington W)
- Legend Records (1292 Wellington W)
Suburbs:
- Baked Goods (2561 Baseline Rd)
- The ODDs & SODs (1400 Clyde Ave, Nepean)
- Sunrise Records (Carlingwood Mall)
Downtown:
- The Turning Point (411 Cooper St)
FAQ
What is the best record store in Ottawa?
The Record Centre in Hintonburg offers the most curated experience with live performances. For sheer inventory size, Legend Records with 250,000+ items cannot be matched. Vertigo Records excels for rock, punk, and hip-hop specialists.
Where can I find rare vinyl in Ottawa?
Baked Goods on Baseline Road specializes in rare pressings, vintage equipment, and hard-to-find releases. Legend Records’ massive inventory also surfaces rare items, particularly in their discount bins.
How much do records cost in Ottawa?
Common vinyl ranges from $20-70. Budget shops like The Turning Point offer records from $4-10. Rare pressings at specialty shops can reach $160 or more.
What’s the oldest record store in Ottawa?
Legend Records has operated since 1979, making it Ottawa’s longest-standing independent music retailer.
Can I sell my records in Ottawa?
Yes. Vertigo Records, Baked Goods, The Turning Point, and Legend Records all buy used vinyl. Baked Goods offers Wednesday appraisals, while Vertigo requests advance calls for collections over 50 items.
Are there record stores with live music in Ottawa?
The Record Centre regularly hosts in-store performances from local and touring artists. Check their social media for upcoming shows.
What record stores have K-pop in Ottawa?
Sunrise Records at Carlingwood Mall maintains the best K-pop selection, featuring BTS, Seventeen, LE SSERAFIM, ITZY, and other artists.
Where can I buy turntables in Ottawa?
The Record Centre, Vertigo Records, Baked Goods, and The ODDs & SODs Shoppe all stock turntables ranging from entry-level to vintage restored models.
What genres are available at Ottawa record stores?
Ottawa shops collectively cover every genre: rock, jazz, hip-hop, punk, metal, classical, blues, funk, soul, country, pop, indie, K-pop, and film soundtracks.
Do Ottawa record stores offer special orders?
Yes. Compact Music and Vertigo Records both offer special orders at no additional charge for specific records not currently in stock.
Final Thoughts
Ottawa’s vinyl scene offers genuine depth for collectors at every level. Newcomers should start at The Turning Point for affordable exploration, then graduate to The Record Centre for a curated experience with live music atmosphere. Serious collectors will find endless discoveries at Legend Records’ massive inventory, while rare-pressing hunters should make Baked Goods a regular stop.
The resurgence of vinyl reflects something streaming cannot replicate: the tactile experience of flipping through bins, the artwork appreciation, the ritual of placing needle to groove. Ottawa’s independent record shops preserve this experience while adapting to modern tastes, stocking everything from classic rock standards to the latest K-pop releases.
Support these local institutions. Browse without agenda. Discover something new.
Sources: Best in Ottawa, Das Lokal Ottawa, individual store websites and social media.
