Just getting into vinyl? Or building your collection? These seven Manila spots have everything from new releases to vintage gems.
Vinyl has been making a steady comeback, thanks to the analog boom—with today’s biggest artists embracing the format just as much as those who came before them. People have all kinds of reasons for loving records: some prize their unique sound signatures (they tend to sound fuller, richer, and more dynamic); others enjoy the interactive, deeply intimate connection that vinyl fosters between listener and artist. Most enthusiasts fall somewhere in between. And whether you’re just getting into the hobby or looking to grow your library, here’s the good news: Manila is home to a thriving vinyl record scene that will only continue to grow.
Here are seven spots where you can get your plaka fix, encompassing everything from new releases to secondhand classics.
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Plaka Express
Family-owned and operated, Plaka Express boasts a comprehensive vinyl collection comprising both new releases and desirable reissues. They’ve probably got exactly what you’re looking for, from oldies but goodies like Michael Jackson; Kate Bush; Earth, Wind & Fire; and Queen; to fresh vinyls from artists like Troye Sivan, Sza, Taylor Swift, Haim, The Strokes, Hozier, Olivia Dean—and really, just about every new and popular artist you can think of. Soundtracks from various films and new OPM vinyls from artists like BINI are also available. Visit them in person or order through their online store—either way, there’s something for everyone.
Location: 50 Palawan Street, Bagong Pag-asa, Quezon City, Metro Manila
Store Hours: 9 AM to 8 PM, daily
Backspacer Records
Backspacer Records also features a vast collection of records, many of which are new and limited edition. Browse through the store’s wide list of genres through their website (and shop there too), or pay its Pasig location a visit. Perhaps most unique about the shop is its inventory of “Backspacer Exclusives”: collaborative, limited-edition vinyls with Filipino artists, including Hey June!, Lola Amour, Kitchie Nadal, Mike Hanopol, and Clara Benin, which is a great way to continue supporting the release of analog formats within the local music scene.
Location: 2nd Floor D’Ace Plaza, United St. corner Brixton St., Barangay Kapitolyo, Pasig, Metro Manila
Store Hours: 11 AM to 7 PM, daily
The Listening Room
Despite its smaller space, The Listening room is certainly not lacking in good quality vinyl records, whether they’re reissued classics or fresh album releases. Intimate yet well-curated shelves in the back portion of the audio store will surprise you, yielding amazing albums from both older and newer artists, as well as a nice collection of film soundtracks.
They also have a dedicated shelf with secondhand vinyls, and a whole category or drawer compartment dedicated to The Beatles. Two birds, one stone: the shop is also a great place to get audio equipment like vinyl players and maintenance tools—exactly what you need if you’re just getting started.
Location: Level 3, Building B, SM Megamall, Mandaluyong City, Metro Manila
Store Hours: 10 AM to 9 PM, daily
Good Vibrations
One of the newer establishments in the list, but definitely a must-see for Cubao Expo visitors is Good Vibrations. Serving as both a record store and listening cafe, it features a pretty extensive collection of thoughtfully-selected vinyls that’ll keep most music lovers thoroughly occupied. Community-based activities like DJ nights add to the fun, with the store even hosting official in-store listening parties for exciting releases, including the launch of Laufey’s highly-anticipated album A Matter of Time. And when you’re just in the mood to relax, there are always some drinks waiting for you.
Location: Cubao Expo, 3 General Romulo Ave, Cubao, Quezon City, Metro Manila
Store Hours: 1 PM to 10:30 PM, Tuesday to Sunday
Bebop Records
This is the kind of place you can get happily lost in—partly by choice (Because who doesn’t enjoy the thrill of serendipitous discovery?) and partly because it doesn’t have online platforms (Commit to the old school bit, that’s the fun part!). The store features an impressive collection of vintage records, many of which are in good condition, so you’re sure to come out of it with more than a few steals. OPM, jazz standards, and even coveted original pressings: you never know what you’ll find in this hidden gem of a treasure trove.
Location: First Basement, Makati Cinema Square, Chino Roces Avenue, corner Antonio Arnaiz Ave, Makati , Metro Manila
Store Hours: 9 AM to 5 PM, Monday to Saturday
Spindle Community Store
Makati-based listeners have more to sink their teeth into with Spindle Community Store. Despite its unassuming location, the store is a welcoming haven of lovely collectibles, memorabilia, and of course, vinyl records. Cozy and intimate, it has a great collection of new and old albums from around the world that’ll please even the most discerning visitors.
Location: Creekside Mall, Amorsolo Street, Legazpi Village, Makati, Metro Manila
Store Hours: 2 PM to 7 PM, Monday to Friday
Ted Ellis
A little farther south is Ted Ellis—yet another store that won’t fail you if you’re searching for a broad, in-depth vinyl collection. Specializing in new releases, the independent store keeps up with the latest in music, offering a constant stream of new albums from artists like Ethel Cain, Sabrina Carpenter, Doechii, Charli XCX, and way too many more to list. And if you can’t find something you’re looking for? The store goes out of its way to cater to special orders, just to make sure you tick off some items from the never-ending vinyl bucket list. Whether you visit their online store or physical space, you’ll definitely be spoiled for choice.
Location: 2nd Floor, Espacio Hotel, Bayani Rd, AFPOVAI, Taguig, Metro Manila
Store Hours: 10 AM to 9 PM, Monday to Friday; 10 AM to 10 PM, Saturday to Sunday
