Fantastic record store for 1st pressings!! Found some amazing vinyl!! So glad we found and stopped in!! Need to make sure you have some time to visit with the owner Kevin and his wife!! Kevin has lived an amazing life, make sure you have time to talk to him, especially if you like George Clinton, Tribe Called Quest, Dr Dre, we could have stayed for the whole day talking to Kevin!! Thank you Kevin for the finds and the conversation!! read more

UPDATE OF MY ORIGINAL REVIEW: After what started out to be a positive experience, I'm left with a very negative feeling about this place. IN A LARGE NUTSHELL: I originally called to see if ATRT carried a specific pressing of an artist/album and they did. I purchased that album plus four others. Played all of the albums BUT the specific album I needed - which was the most expensive - was literally unplayable. Contacted owner Kevin and he started making up store policies: claimed the invoice states it allows for only a 50% refund (it doesn't); then stated while he wouldn't refund me, he would try to locate another copy of the album which would probably have a later pressing/label & that I needed to be okay with that since it contained all of the same songs as the original pressing. (I wanted the original release, I paid for the original release, I expected the original release - not a later reissue on a different label - this shouldn't be difficult for any collector to comprehend.) Kevin attempted to bully me by repeatedly cutting me off with his confrontational, condescending, argumentative and arrogant tone which, honestly, was shocking, to say the least. Eventually he admitted he doesn't listen to the albums while simultaneously claiming them to be in great condition - after much back and forth, he finally agreed to reimburse me for the defective album. (It's as though he's great to talk to if you agree with everything he says but if he feels challenged, he takes it as a threat?????) I understand not being able to listen to thousands of albums to check their usability but if they don't work & he doesn't want to provide an in-store opportunity for customers to test them, do the honest thing. Also, post your lack-of-return-policy-of-the-moment so customers know in advance what they're settling for - NOTE: they have you sign the receipt after paying AND keep talking to you while signing so you simply think you're signing for receipt of merchandise - if there's a no-return clause or a partial refund clause, you won't know that. As I stated to Kevin over the phone, I'm not mad or angry about the hostile way he treated me, I'm actually sad - what could have been a pretty darn good experience with a local small business turned out to be a pretty awful one. MY MISTAKE - I should have read other reviews BEFORE visiting because there are wildly differing opinions on this place and all seem legit - the good and the bad. My first review was great and as you can see, that soured pretty frickin' quickly. It doesn't take much to be decent and honest - especially if you'd like to keep customers who are happy to share their experiences with others. read more

I can't believe anybody on here would criticize Kevin....you nitpicky yuppies....Kevin is honest about what he likes, he helps you find what you want...and then you get to talk about how much $$ for the records...but what I absolutely love about Kevin is he will read you, and then tell you to buy a couple of records you've never heard, or never heard of...he's an excellent tastemaker...he knows music..I have walked out of there with records that I never would've heard on my own that I love... read more

The shop is cool and clean and the owner is nice but really loves to brag about himself and who he knows. If you are a serious collector and are looking for something rare, you need to check the vinyl meticulously. An example: he had a copy of Herbie Hancock/Maiden Voyage with a note stating it is a 1965 NY RVG press. I picked it up and examined the record and it was a 1971 United Artist press. The price range is huge with these pressings and he priced it as an original. I am not sure if he is trying to cheat people or it was an honest mistake but please be cautious when buying from this store. You need to know exactly what you're looking for so you don't get cheated. read more

Heard great things about this store and was not disappointed. Have been collecting hard to find LPs in jazz and 60s rock, hard to find as in early releases in very good plus condition. Owner Kevin D possesses a wealth of knowledge and his store reflects the kind of high quality and condition I was seeking. Purchased 3 albums - The Who's debut and 2nd album, and an excellent copy of a Bobby Hutcherson Harold Land collaboration. His prices are familiar to anyone seeking such quality used vinyl, collectible and in good condition. I highly recommend this little store, chock full of goodies! Looking forward to going back again when I'm in SoCal. read more

I found a wonderful array of records to add to my collection. Kevin really knows his stuff. I had a lovely conversation with him and even found some really rare 45 covers as well as record albums on the Carpenters. It was an awesome day and even discovered that this is the place for that hard to find record you've been searching for. Ask Kevin, he can and will probably have it and if not. he will find it. read more

Place is so legit!! The guy running this place knows his stuff. Great selection of vinyls!!! Spent a good amount of time here and the guy give me an unforgettable price! He hooks it up! read more

As the Record Turns - Dr. DRE Vinyl - Music & DVDs Near Me - Hollywood, California

Really enjoyed this literal hole in the wall. Owner was super chill talked records and music history. This was a man who cared for the music and the costumer. I will visit every time I come to la. read more

An amazing find, but I'm conflicted: Kevin Donan is going to have many Jazz records you haven't seen in other stores - and he's going to justify why he charges upwards of $60 and $75 for them. I'm not saying he shouldn't, but you need to know that you'll be coming out of pocket for some serious cake. Educate yourself in advance: go to jazz vinyl collectors' websites, read up on album covers, label colors & styles, matrix numbers, record company addresses, special markings, record weight, years, etc. Inspect his stock carefully. Know your s*** - because Kevin sure does. Kevin's a bit verbose for my taste. When I go into a record store, it's nice when the owners/employees are friendly and willing to help, but if I've got a meter running and I'm trying to shop, I need you to hush; I'll let you know if I need help - I'm trying to concentrate. In many of these places, you get extremes: someone who won't shut up or someone who is a complete jerk. In the case of Sandy at The Record Collector in Los Angeles, you get both unfortunately. Dave at Bop Street in Seattle and the dude at Waterloo in Austin will chat you up real good - and then, leave you be until you need help - I LOVE THEM! I LOVE talking shop with other vinyl junkies, but there needs to be a balance. And while he's chatting, Kev is also dropping names; he's quick to let you know who he's hung out with, etc. I don't mind a know-it-all, but don't be a braggart too. (Maybe they go hand-in-hand?) That being said, he's got an excellent collection. Again, just be prepared to pay a healthy sum for most of them. This is not a place for the casual browser. It'd be nice if they had more floor space. read more

This place is a charming little spot that you have to walk down an alley to find. A nice Ella hangs out watching TV in the front room of this two chambered store which sells vinyl records for the highest prices you can possibly pay for them. It's not a place to go digging for casual listening but the store itself has a lot of charm. If you're checking out the record stores of Hollywood this is an interesting little curiosity of a store. read more

This really upsets me that people are being so rude about this place. For starters, Henry is wonderful! We had a fantastic time chatting and he has a fantastic knowledge around all the albums he has worked with for the past 40 years. Definitely not my last time read more

Good record selection but INSANELY overpriced. And comes off a bit like a know it all. I see him all the time at Pasadena flea market. He loves letting you know that every price can be reduced, but will only reduce a few bucks. Hilarious really... Dont waste your time unless you are looking to overpay. read more

The only reason this place gets two stars instead of only one is that they do have a tremendous selection. That said, this place is a total rip-off. Maybe if you're from the EU or Japan, these might seem like competitive prices, otherwise... yeesh! read more

Let me first state, the owner Kevin, is probably one of the coolest and nicest man you will ever meet. He knows everything. His shop is on the infamous Hollywood Blvd. Across from the Egyptian Theater, hidden in some patio in the back(I got Lost at first). LOL. This guy has everything you could as for if your looking for rare records to sample like myself. Stuff that you wouldnt find anywhere else, except maybe eBay. His soul records full a whole shelf, then extend through-out the rest of the store. As well as his Rock and Jazz Sections. The only downfall, his stuff is extremely pricey, but i could understand why, its really RARE!!! If your a broke-bum like myself looking for records, this place might not be for you. However if your realliy on a hunt for that James Brown Record, you just might find it here. Also, make sure you bring cash, and look for a spot to park behind the Theater. read more

Most fascinating record store I've visited yet! Small place with huge selection in it and an awasome and kind man who owns and runs the store. Prices are high but negotiable, and every customer gets a free record. Definitely a place to go for hard to find gems more than crate digging read more

Kevin rules... I love this place. I always find what I need although sometimes I wish their prices were a little lower on some things. Overall, I recommend. read more

Kevin is so knowledgeable, welcoming and unpretentious! My roommate and I were actually waiting outside a nearby Threading Studio when Kevin and his wife walked by, inviting us to come into their store to get away from the LA heat until the owner of the Threading Studio returned from lunch. What a gem! This was our first record store and Kevin was SO kind to break down some history, his experiences touring as a drummer and how he came to open this shop, encouraging us to start a collection! Usually, vinyl and music enthusiasts like him are pretty pompous and snippy, but not Kevin. Chill, insightful and friendly. My roommate and I will definitely be coming back here! Thanks Kevin! read more

Check this place out, even if you're just in the mood to browse. Despite being a small store, I can almost guarantee you'll leave with something. Kevin, the owner, is amazing. He'll quickly help you find whatever you're looking for. He was so welcoming and chatted with us for over 10 minutes. I was in search of Nancy Sinatra record that has been incredibly hard to come by, but this place had it! Being in the shop for over 25 years, Kevin knows his stuff. He hand-selects the records and has all sorts of interesting stories that probably relate to whatever record you were in search of. Super cool guy. Plus, you get a free record when you make a purchase. Granted they're mostly artists you've never heard of, but it's a fun way to find new music. read more

My official go to guy for records! Kevin is more than well informed on music than anyone I've ever met! He strives to have the rarest and obscure collection of records, and he does. I bought a Django Reinhardt collection box as well as a rare Chet Baker vinyl and Yes' Fragile. He sold all three of them to me for a really really good price! If you're in need of some hard to find records, there's a high chance that Kevin has got it. If he doesn't, he can most likely find it for you. Go to this shop for to find what your looking for and to have a nice chat with Kevin! He's a super cool guy, he's got stories about lots of musicians he's met, and he'll help you out with better prices than record shops like Amoeba. read more

Kevin is one of the friendliest and the most loving person I ever met in the record business. When you hang with him, there is zero ounce of ego in the man, you feel after spending 1/2 hour with this man that not only you have a friend for life but he generally cares about you not as a customer but as a human. To the peps out there who are "in the know," Kevin is the anti-Rosen. His wife is equally as lovely and I will be in their store again in a few short weeks. Now about the records. He has a lot of them in what some would consider to be a small store in square footage. All types of music is represented here and many gems are here to be found. You can check out and record condition and basically ask this man anything and he will help you out. His prices are more than fair. I am now a LIFETIME buyer and I consider this man and wife as my friends. read more

Okay so I'm from Ventura and I've searched high and low and been to many many record shops and seen lots of collections but let me tell you this, Kevin and his lovely wife have EASILY THE BEST records I've seen. Hands down. I've been north and south of California and nothing competes. Tons of Soul, R&B, Rock & Roll, Soundtracks and more. Kevin can help you locate any record you want and knows what he's talking about. He's been in the business many many years, knows his prices. Crossed a couple bucket list records off my list within the first 5 mins. I can keep going but I'll let you just see for yourself because this is a MUST for any vinyl junkie or record collector. read more

As the Record Turns - Unreal - Music & DVDs Near Me - Hollywood, California

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As a very recent vinyl convert, I have been voraciously filling up my collection as quickly as I can. Los Angeles is a wonderful city for record collectors, and many gems lie within. Today I had the pleasure of discovering As the Record Turns, buried in a nice, quiet, unpretentious spot down a walkway off Hollywood Blvd. I was immediately greeted by the warm Monet, whose knowledge of where everything was located impressed me. I found a lot of my holy grails - a copy of Pink Floyd's "Animals" that I've been unable to find at Amoeba, Atomic, or online (at least not for less than $150.00). I found a lone copy with a worn cover but a near immaculate vinyl for $25.00! I rounded up a nice double LP Ray Charles, a mint/unopened Madonna "Like a Prayer" (the full LP), a NM Madonna "Erotica," two of her rare 12" singles, The Monkees' "Headquarters," and Abba's "Super Trouper." As they were marked, the records would have amounted to around $175. (Monet had told me when I walked in that she'd bargain with me, and I thought she was joking. Everything in the store was already priced reasonably - not cheap, not expensive; just fair - so I wasn't thinking she'd really bargain with me.) After I made my selections, she called (I presume) the owner, told him what I'd put in my queue, and they chatted then hung up. She told me she'd give me my selections for $100. Now, to those who don't love vinyl, you won't appreciate this. But to those who do, you know that finding original, NM/M copies of older vinyls can be tough. This location is an uncharted gold mine! Friendly, filled with a better selection than Amoeba, and fair on price. Stop here first when you want to start or add to your collection.. read more

I love this place. Huge collection, decent prices (we re talking vintage records here) and amazing owner. read more

If you're looking for those hard to find US pressings, in NM condition...Kevin's shop should be on the top of your list. If you do visit, be sure to chat with Kevin as he is extremely knowledgable and will help you track down whatever you are looking for. This is now my #1 go-to shop, replacing Atomic Records in Burbank. read more

This was a random stop off the Hollywood Blvd. We were considering hopping into Amoeba later that day to feed the need but stumbled in here on a whim; turning down a non-descript alley. It was one of the best stops during my week long vacation. Kevin is a top notch archivist and collector. His knowledge of music, especially Jazz and hip hop is second to none. His collection is truly rare and unique. This is the first time, I've had access to so many promotional records and first early pressings. The store is small, but packed to the gills with all kinds of amazing finds. If you have any kind of fondness for vinyl, Kevin is the guy to get you taken care of. read more

Created a yelp just to write this. Honestly such a great experience finding this place. An incredible collection of records I'd never seen at other shops, and talking to Kevin was such a delight. The man really knows his stuff and talking history with him was a pleasure. We talked for so long that I didn't even realize the store was now closed, and Kevin didn't rush me once. A couple times I found a record I wanted and he would tell me he had a few more of the same record that I could have for cheaper. Anyone who visits LA and wants a great record store to check out should absolutely come here. read more

This place is incredible. Small simple shop that has some absolutely amazing and rare records. In the world of online and hipster record shops popping up everywhere, this place is old style, and has a collection that is unmatched as far i have seen, and at fair prices. (People complain about prices here, and they are bit pricey, but you are getting some rare shit. This not a place you buy a third pressing of a rolling stones album, this is for buying the rare only few made Sun Ra live recording 1958) They have one offs, first pressings, test pressings, speciality gate-folds, and all kinds of weird ass rarities. Just a killer soul section and pretty killer blues section too. Also if you like 60s stuff, dylan, neil young, etc they have some pretty rare examples of their early releases and all at a fair market price. Always willing to negotiate the owners are really top notch people too. Just good old fashioned customer service at it's best, not snobby at all and super friendly and helpful in finding what you are looking for, and negotiating. One last thing, the owner and his wife are not just awesome, but a huge wealth of info. If you are looking for that first printing in mono of whatever, or that one cover that had that thing that reprints didn't, they not only probally have it, but can tell the story of how it came to be too PS. This place is located at the end of this secret and cool little courtyard right off Hollywood Blvd. For a good thurs go to Musso and Franks grab a drink at their super cool old fashioned bar then walk down and dig through the artifacts and gems stored at As the Record Turns, you will dig up a diamond for your collection guaranteed. read more

This place is amazing for collectors looking for rare and mint vinyl! I was visiting from out of town and spotted this place online. This shop will forever be my go-to record store in LA. Forget Amoeba and their piles of reissues! Being a hardcore collector of The Doors, finding new things that I do not have can be a challenge. However, As The Record Turns really impressed me with their beautiful selection. Kevin is a knowledgable man who helped me find what I was looking for right away and even let me pick up a few free records because of my purchase. The shop was also very welcoming and I could tell they really care about making their customers happy. Some of the reviews on here are complaining about the prices, but I thought they were very reasonable. My sealed "Alive She Cried" Doors album from '83 was only $20 and Iron Maiden's "Piece of Mind" promo in mint condition was $35. You will not regret stopping by this treasure trove! read more

My boyfriend and I were walking around Hollywood and we discovered an alley. Even though alleys are known to be rape-traps, this alley was beautiful. We walked through it and saw signs that lead us to this record store. This is the best record store ever. Everything, yes I mean everything was alphabetized! There were the rarest vinyls around the store and in the back was an old record player playing some oldies. The owner is the chillest dood out thaarrrrrrrr. His name is Kevin and man I wish he was my grandpa because he is bomb. We chatted with him and he told us that he worked with a lot of people including A Tribe Called Quest, Morrissey, J Dilla, Jay-Z, Common, MJ, The Beach Boys, Steven Speilberg, and so many others. We looked around the store and saw a Biz Markie record and behind us we hear Kevin say "Yeah, I worked with him too." He's so chill and that just made the place more rad. Before we left, Kevin even told us to each grab a free record in the clearance section. Sw333333t. My boyfriend got a Dead or Alive record and I got an A-ha one. Seriously, the best record store evah. Kevin said that he gives a free record to every person who enters his store. The chillest guy evahhh The downside to visiting this place was that there was no AC on so it was blazin' hot inside. But otherwise, check it outz. read more

I really wanted to like this store and walk in, however, their odd hours and when they are supposed to be open..no one is there. This made it difficult to even give this place a chance during our LA holiday which sucks since my best friend and I are such music whores. read more

This place is amazing. Yes, the prices are on the high side, but the breadth and depth of the selection is stunning. Kevin is very knowledgeable and easy going. Found things I haven't seen in 40 years. No hip attitude, just great service and wonderful selection. read more

Was very excited to visit this store during my visit from Boston to L.A., but if you are going to have store hours listed, PLEASE BE OPEN DURING THEM!!! I made a special trip to Hollywood just to check this place out and it was closed and locked midday on a Friday. Very unprofessional. I doubt I'd go back to try it again. read more

Buyer beware. These guys promised first pressing and seal their records in plastic. BUT be careful to check ALL records before you buy. Expensive album said Mono, inside record was later stereo version. read more

I've never been to this shop, but I've seen his stand at the PCC flea market. I believe I purchased 1 record like 5 years ago. This past weekend my Sunday was free and the flea market was on.. I decided to go dig for some records. Kevin's stand was the last one I showed up right before leaving. Let me say, they were very friendly. Very knowledgeable. If you dont know much about vinyl (jazz in particular) then you dont know about prices. I would have left with 10 to 20 records if I had the money. I was down to my last $50 cash but what I was able to grab blew me away. I had been looking for Lonnie Smith - Drives for a while now and this was sitting in the bins. made a great deal for $30. I also stumbled upon an early release of Dorothy Ashby, her 2nd release; original 1958 "In a Minor Groove"... also for $30. you kidding me? He marked both of these down from their original prices listed.. with this being said. I cannot wait to hit his shop.. and I'll be taking serious cash with me. Thanks Kevin! ps: for all you complainers about prices.. check out discogs to compare. I will agree, you might be better off finding a deal on ebay though. but you never know what you'll get. At a store, you can at least look at the product and interact directly with the owner selling it. read more

Kevin is one of the nicest people I have come across while record hunting. He has nothing but originals no reprints and the prices are reasonable. Take the time to go over and browse you can't go wrong with Kevin's knowledge. read more

Kevin is the real deal! He's a true audiophile and has a genuine appreciation for music and collectors alike. Great collection of soul and rock. Rare finds and gems a plenty, and revel in the fact that he only deals in original pressings with the motto that he only sells records in the condition he would want to keep in his personal collection. Knowledgeable and friendly service! read more

I met Kevin at the OC record swap meet a few months ago, and just again recently. All I can say is WOW! His collection of hand picked rare, used and out of print vinyl is second to none. He is essentially a curator of some the the finest jazz, rock and esoteric recordings that people SHOULD have in their collection, but have never been able to find some of the shops around town. He has an encyclopedic knowledge of jazz history and knows and has interviewed many of most prominent jazz figures, past and present. He's the real deal, the nicest guy, friendly, gregarious, and most importantly for the vinyl collector: every record is hand picked by him for its relevance, and you will ALWAYS find some worth your time and investment for seeking him out! read more

Hands down best record shop in Los Angeles. Amazingly curated selection of funk/soul/r&b/jazz/soundtracks. Lots of rare hard to find records and as everyone else here has said Kevin is an absolute OG in the game, he's knowledgeable, humble, seriously accomplished and an overall awesome dude. Definitely check this place out. read more

This is THE BEST mom and pop record shop in LA... Kevin is a fantastic host in his store! He has a TON of great stories and knows so much about music in general. The selection and quality of his vinyl is fantastic. You can find some real gems and rare recordings in here... check it out! read more

I stopped by here to pick up some jazz records without knowing much about jazz---I've only recently been getting interested in the genre. Kevin asked me a few questions and guided me to a nice selection of records. I hadn't listened to vinyl in over 20 years and I'm blown away by the acoustic quality as I listen to the records Kevin suggested as I write this. Kevin spent a great deal of time with me. There were other customers present and he kept checking in on them, too. One of them way visiting from Europe and told me that a friend of his had told him that if he ever made it to LA he must go to As the Record Turns. I'm lucky---I live in LA already and can go back as often as I want. This place is definitely worth a stop if you want excellent customer service and great quality records. read more