Best Independent CD/Vinyl Store

1) Cutler's Records, Tapes & Compact Discs

Cutler’s just celebrated a national holiday — Record Store Day. The annual national event celebrates independent record stores with releases of collectible new albums on high-quality vinyl. New Haven couldn’t have a better representative of indie-dom than Cutler’s. The store has been around for generations, since when vinyl was just about the only way to hear music. Where many major national music stores have tried and failed, Cutler’s has survived. The store respects the individuality of its customers, and the many entertainment options available now. The staff, most of whom have been with the store for decades, help customers make wise, informed choices, and just give you a chance to gush about a favorite new song. In recent years, Cutler’s interest in vinyl has even grown, with more old-school LPs along the wall opposite the ever-lively selection of used CDs, and an array of turntables (whether new, used or USB-connectible) for sale. Those silly folks who persist in getting their music digitally elsewhere still have reason to go to Cutler’s: nifty headphones and iPod accessories. Even the tin-eared are welcome: Cutler’s is one of downtown’s great gift shops, with everything from magic tricks to dolls to T-shirts. It’s a paradise for every independent taste.

2) Exile on Main St.

3) Merles Record Rack

merlesrecordrack.com

307 Racebrook Rd.
Orange
(203) 795-9033

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