Local Guides World
Best Record stores in Canada
Top Rated Record stores
Top Reviewed Record stores
The Record Centre
Urban Outfitters
Legend Records
Vertigo Records
Compact Music
Sunrise Records
Turning Point
The Record Centre
Sunrise Records
Sunrise Records
Cabin Fever
Old Strathcona Antique Mall
Reviews
I really liked this place since it has a lot of old things and it really takes you back to the past, I would definitely visit it again.
Amazing! For decades I hunted for a rare Jackal record. Discovered it listed on their website. Called to confirm it was in stock and the condition was as described. Not only did they take the time to check over the album while I was on the phone, but also called me back to confirm other details. The people I spoke with were super patient and kind. They packed the album safely for travel to the US and shipped it promptly. Hoping one day to visit the actual retail store!
I absolutely love this place. There are so many hidden gems to be found and so many booths to go through. I have found plenty of items here that have been affordable. My only complaint is I wish they were open later on the weekdays.
Descriptions for vinyl are 110% legit. Bought 3 albums rated NM (near mint), all were in perfect shape (like barely played, if at all). No worries about buying from them again or concerns about their grading. Fair prices based on discogs.
Went to get a refund for a CD because I changed my mind and the girl who worked there got pissed and said “thank you for supporting local music stores” passive aggressively as she handed me my refund receipt. Very unprofessional…
Excellent customer service, great selection, amazing space to walk through, and lots of cool items to see! Had a great time and found a few vintage things to buy. Overall had a fun trip there.
the most unprofessional service I’ve ever had to endure! staff member forced me to shout over the music to make my inquiry and seemed “put out” that he actually had to look up something!…never again!
my dvd and blueray collection is looking a lot better thanks to Austin and Tania! Thank you both for helping me find movies!
One of the best places to spend a few hours. So many cool antiques. I found a great book in excellent quality. They have everything here.
Had a great time with my daughter for my birthday there. Beer was great, and all the pinball for only $10. Definitely will return.
OMG! Soooooo lovely! 🤩🤩This is a treasure house! 💖What a place! Cute and pretty items are arranged ! You will have fun finding good-priced treasures!
Fun pinball and arcade game machines, reasonably priced drinks with a great selection for a small bar, friendly staff, soft lights, music not too loud, clean gender-neutral restrooms. Nothing to complain about here. If it's your vibe, this place is perfect. Very small and cozy though!
Nice menu of drinks, just a few snacks as far as food goes, but the real appeal is the bunch of pinball cabinets. $1 per credit, or I believe $10 on Sundays for free play. The patrons here seem to be pretty friendly, too.
I have been a customer of the Turning Point for more years than I can remember. It is without a doubt one of the best music stores you will ever find anywhere. The staff is friendly, courteous, knowledgeable. Lots of inventory of vinyl, CD, and movies and there is new inventory every day. Prices are great.
In short, you will absolutely enjoy your visit to the Turning Point. Drop by and see for yourself.
In short, you will absolutely enjoy your visit to the Turning Point. Drop by and see for yourself.
I suck at pinball, but the drink selection is decent, the price is right, the machines work, and the walk home is short.
It’s a hole in the wall, no food, no gimmicks, no nonsense.
It’s a hole in the wall, no food, no gimmicks, no nonsense.
Pretty frustrating that I have to double check that things are rung up correctly. It’s not worth going to the mall over $6 but I also wouldn’t have bought the movie at $16.99, so I feel ripped off and mislead. Feel free to get in touch with me to correct this, but I waited on hold for 5 minutes after calling to see my options and this felt like the quicker approach
Such a fun spot to spend the afternoon! My girlfriend and I had a lovely time digging for gold! Great prices and quality items!
I went here to buy C*4 wrestling ring side tickets, but this store really brings back memories. The person behind the counter was very polite and friendly. The store was clean, and well designed for easy browsing.
Will never return to this store again. I purchased a DVD, opened the case to look over the disc, and it broke coming out of the case. The clerk would not even do an equal value exchange for another item (I didn't even ask for a refund) and I had the receipt and item in my hand and hadn't even left the store yet
I bought a pair of Klipsch speakers from John and his team last year. I called to inquire about them and was put directly in touch with John who offered to hold them with no pressure until I could make it in later in the day. I received personalized, friendly service from a knowledgeable staff and a product at a good price in excellent condition (there was a listing for the same set of speakers in worse condition at the same price point at the time of purchase so if I'm honest I was surprised that a storefront was able to compete with a private listing considering overhead etc). I've now been enjoying these speakers for about a year and they have not disappointed ever. Really appreciate them.
I've recently gotten back into buying vinyl after many years. I was an avid collector back in the day and always sought out well-appointed record stores with a great selection, fair prices and a knowledgeable staff. Vertigo checks all of these boxes for me. I've found very interesting records here that I haven't found in other stores. Their used records are in very good condition as well. Well worth a visit!
It’s just WOW after WOW. At certain time you not sure you’re visiting a museum or antique shops. They are of course it’s the biggest antique shop in western Canada. Definitely worth to visit, who knows you may find hidden gems here. It has two stories, tons and tons of old items, from 1900s to early 2000s, from toys, clothes, decorations, furnitures, they all covered. Locate in old Strathcona town also near the farmers market.
I'm disappointed in the selection. And I couldn't order what I was looking for.
Cool place. Managed to get a bunch of movies I was looking for. I just wish their Horror section was bigger. Will definitely be back again.
Love this place, has the atmosphere of an old school record store but has all the latest records plus the classics, so everyone is happy. We were able to easily get tickets to an upcoming event for a cheaper service charge and the service was super friendly.
Excellent place to get your music fix! Ian and James have been in the business for many years.
The Record Ctr. Is a treasure. If you love vinyl
And all the tech and ephemera associated with it, this place is for you. Staffed by knowledgeable and welcoming music lovers, the aisles are full of used (and new) vinyl and used / curated (!) hifi gear and the walls are covered in posters and cool stuff. A great place to go dissappear from the world for a few hours.
And all the tech and ephemera associated with it, this place is for you. Staffed by knowledgeable and welcoming music lovers, the aisles are full of used (and new) vinyl and used / curated (!) hifi gear and the walls are covered in posters and cool stuff. A great place to go dissappear from the world for a few hours.
My go-to record shop: the customer service here is on-point!
I couldn't have had more helpful service from the always super-friendly and knowledgeable staff who really know their stuff.
Also really love and appreciate that they've opened my ears to a heap of great music over the years. I never leave empty-handed or unsatisfied.
Just all-around excellent experiences here overall = I’ll be coming back for years to come!
I couldn't have had more helpful service from the always super-friendly and knowledgeable staff who really know their stuff.
Also really love and appreciate that they've opened my ears to a heap of great music over the years. I never leave empty-handed or unsatisfied.
Just all-around excellent experiences here overall = I’ll be coming back for years to come!
Professional, organized went for RSD BF and was able to check off everything on my list! Will be back for sure!
A great, little second hand music store. It has lots of vinyl, cds & dvds on two floors that are well organized.I’ve been coming here for many years. 🎸😉 🎹
My personal best record store (they actually have 2 stores facing each other!) i've been to. Really good jazz selection. Good job guys!!
Love this store my first few visit they had great selection of music and bougt few things and great prices and feels like at home, very homely environment
Excellent service! Above and beyond! Shipped fast and well packed- 10/10!
Very disappointed. I made a special trip today to Turning Point to sell some CDs, something that I thought that they did do as no indication on their website, that they don't. In fact, quite the opposite... anyways they are not buying CDs or DVDs. Signs all over the place on their door and around the store. Spoke to the guy behind over the loud music being played..."no we don't have the capacity to do so" is what I thought he said... I noticed that another reviewer mentioned this a few months ago. I guess nothing has changed to there... still not buying. Maybe their website should state this, but it still has "We pay top prices for CDs, LPs and DVDs, which guarantees our stock changes every day!" ... so much for that statement!
Added....
So, I guess I should have called first. But, the person behind the counter didn't even mention that and I did indeed miss that on the website - I think it should be more prominent than it is AND it should be on the BUY, SELL & TRADE page. With the amount of signage around the store and on the door, it seems that the consideration of CD's/DVDs/Blu-Rays is non-existent really. How often do these collections get "considered"? Or what does it take to be "considered".... just wondering.
Added....
So, I guess I should have called first. But, the person behind the counter didn't even mention that and I did indeed miss that on the website - I think it should be more prominent than it is AND it should be on the BUY, SELL & TRADE page. With the amount of signage around the store and on the door, it seems that the consideration of CD's/DVDs/Blu-Rays is non-existent really. How often do these collections get "considered"? Or what does it take to be "considered".... just wondering.
Great record store. Good selection , great chats . Love the dollar bin for diamonds in the rough :)
If I could give a zero I would. Last Sunday (Nov. 26) I ordered a DVD collection for my brother for our Christmas meet up on Dec. 8. The order was confirmed, but then there was never anything else telling me it was shipping or when it would ship. I emailed on Thursday, Nov. 30 - no answer. I left a phone message Friday, Dec. 1 - no answer. I finally reached a person by phone on Saturday and he said it would ship Monday.
I JUST RECEIVED AN EMAIL THAT MY ORDER WAS CANCELLED!
If you are in Ottawa and want to go to this shop, have at it. If you don't live in Ottawa DO NOT TRUST this place to complete an order you place.
I JUST RECEIVED AN EMAIL THAT MY ORDER WAS CANCELLED!
If you are in Ottawa and want to go to this shop, have at it. If you don't live in Ottawa DO NOT TRUST this place to complete an order you place.
Giving 5 stars mainly because the new location is a lot closer to me now. Kind of a staple from my youth. Been buying from them for years.
Phenomenal selection of records. And a big selection of records. Clean inside, nice staff. Worth it all.
95% of the store offers just clothes and objects for girls/women. My point here is that when I check the website, I can verify a lot of nice clothes, bags, and accessories for men, but it does not happen if I go directly in that unit. Cool store but need to improve men department.
When you have to pat down your employees and lift your pant legs there are something seriously wrong with this community and then when I question the manager about doing this she laughed at me how do you hire people and not trust them I was thoroughly disgusted I will not shop here again
Excellent selection, fair deals for them to purchase records. Hard to find tho...LOL...don't take classical records except by donation....I understand....😖
The lady who helped me was super nice. Not very size inclusive though
Jamiyah from customer courier support believes it's okay for packages to be stolen and no replacement or refund to be given. For an item that is carried at this store. Failure to carry plus sizes, delivery options, and customer service.
Ian and James always make great suggestions for new artists and songs that match my tastes in music. Real pros.
Amazing selection of used vinyl with a nice touch of new releases
Lots of vinyl records. All in alphabetical order, and a mixture of both new and used vinyl is available. The prices are in line with Discogs listings, so don’t expect to be ripped off or get an amazing bargain.
Great little record shop with a large selection, new and used. Great selection of boxes sets and rarities as well. Last time I was in they were playing Jim Croce on the store system so you know the employees are awesome and have great taste.
Legend Records has been in Ottawa for years but the new ownership certainly brought in a welcome breath to the store. Price is more competitive negotiable. What I like most is the friendly service because record stores are intimating sometimes. They also offer stuff you cannot find at other record stores.
Went in looking for replacement parts for my turntable...headshell...as the wires broke. Identified my issue, and Jeff who looked after me, took the time while I was there to coach me through in replacing the wires. If you are looking for top notch service, The Record Centre has it! It was worth the hour drive in from Almonte,.
Good stock, nice and varied. Some good blues & jazz...and of course rock. Sold some albums for a decent price and a store credit. Good overall experience.
Best place in Ottawa for all music needs. Great staff and HipHop/Rap selection.
Awesome and diverse selection, neat memorabilia on the walls. Terrific location in Hintonburg with free two hour parking near by. Excellent prices and even better customer service from a gentleman who looked a lot like Greg Allman.
If you're looking for vinyl or compact discs I would add this place as a good option in your search for that music gem you're looking for. Super friendly staff, loads of selection and a lot of previously enjoyed music.
This was my second visit to the place and I was not very happy. As I approached the front door they had a notice that they were not accepting any new CDs LPS Etc as they had reached their quota. I went in anyways I have now learned that maybe I should phone ahead to make sure they are accepting those items at the time I want to bring them in. My first visit there was great got a half decent price for some things that I'm trying to dispose of.
Definitely the best record store in Ottawa. John and the rest of the people working here are always so nice and approachable and willing to share their expertise on equipment and albums. Love coming in here to see what's new.
beautiful store with kind employees but unfortunately one of the items got scanned twice, so i got double charged for something i didn't receive
Great selection at very fair prices. Super friendly and knowledgeable staff. One of my go-tos in Ottawa for vinyl!😊
I loved this place!! It feels like you’re stepping back in time. There were so many things I had forgotten about or seen when I was a child and haven’t seen in years and years. I could have spent hours looking around. I loved all the antique furniture and antique tea pots/glassware!!
Called in to put something aside (carlingwood location). Told me to swing by the same day because they can only put it on hold until EOD. Showed up to a “be back in 15” sign. Waited 35 minutes outside the shop, no sight of the employee or anything. Thank you for wasting my time.
Such an awesome store, I went every now and then while I lived in Ottawa and there always were some hidden gems among their collections. This'll be the place I'll go in the future because after Crosstown Traffic's closedown, this might be the best record shop in Ottawa
What the hell happened to this Record Shop ?, a previous “legend” in Ottawa Record. shopping the new location made me feel like I’m shopping a run down flea market, horribly setup and half the bins are empty. One less Record Store stop next time I crate dig my way through Ottawa
#RecordShop
#RecordStore
#RecordShop
#RecordStore
Went to pick up a record I had ordered and bought a few weeks ago. Picked up at the second location across the street. I apologized for being so late to pick it up. The person working there was so chill and immediately took all my stress away!
Cheers Erica! I appreciate your calm demeanour and clear want to help people! I will be back.
Cheers Erica! I appreciate your calm demeanour and clear want to help people! I will be back.
I clearly showed my discount but the cashier did not apply it to my order. I am very disappointed by the unjust price and I will not be shopping here again.
Great service. Found an album there that I had difficulties searching other big name stores for.
I got most of my music stuff there and all the employees are nice and also enjoy music
I went there looking for the new straykids 5 star album and they had all 3 versions, and an entire kpop shelf with many other groups too! It's one of the only places in Ottawa I've found that sells kpop albums in-store!
ordered an item for pickup and used a $5 off coupon. The website said the item was in stock so I placed the order and arrived at the store once I got the pickup ready email. They said the item I ordered was sold out and when I asked if I could get a refund and my $5 coupon/credit back, the manager said no. Why did I come to this store all the way from Newmarket to pick up something that wasn’t communicated that it was out of stock AND lose a $5 coupon over it? They didn’t try to even put it on a gift card or allow me to choose something similar. AVOID!!
This store really surprised me as I went In with my friend. They have a rather incredible stock of products and I most definitely will be going again to get a better look around!
Most impressive is that they have two different stores to house all the products they have available and offer them at really good prices!
Most impressive is that they have two different stores to house all the products they have available and offer them at really good prices!
Charming place that I will need to go regularly to see what is new in store! They have a huge selection, you are sure to find something new or to reconnect with old classics you love.
They were also able to direct me to someone in the city to fix my turntable from the 60s. Definitely a place worth stopping by!
They were also able to direct me to someone in the city to fix my turntable from the 60s. Definitely a place worth stopping by!
Genuinely one of the greatest record stores I have ever been too. Their selection of music is just wild and I have found stuff here I thought I would never find without having to order online and at a crazy price. If you are a music lover you HAVE to check this place out I can not give it enough praise.
Small shop with nice collection of Vinyls bought The Offspring Americana and Nora Jones. The staff was very friendly and helpful.
Should be called “Sunrise Movies and Tv” at this point honestly, I love that you guys bought out every music store we had and now it’s “well, kids like dvds and anime merch so we should only stock that”
Pretty cool store with lots to look at. The prices on most items I looked at were a bit high. T-shirts were $7 higher than most places, but it was all branded and band shirts, no stupid random sayings like "it's always beer o'clock somewhere". The records were all pretty high, especially for a lot of the classic rock stuff. The selection was verrrry classic rock heavy, with some mainstream metal and modern hip-hop, but overall felt fairly limited... Maybe they're serving an older audience seeing as the store is in Carlingwood? The CD selection definitely had alot more variety, and I saw numerous classics from my youth. In the end, both my daughter and I found something we wanted and left happy!
One of my fav local chain music stores. It kind of replaced HMV. Some items hard to order due to continued record label shenanigans. Some stuff better priced than Amazon! Fun place and knowledgeable employees
Legend Records has been an institution in this town for decades. They have also always had legendary high prices. Used records in poor shape being sold for astronomical prices, even above the equivalent prices/condition on the Discogs website. It's not worth a detour to come here, I would suggest checking out the other stores in the city or go for a trip to Montréal.
Amazing selection and variety at such affordable prices. Staff are very friendly and knowledgeable in both music and movies. Lots of great deals and offers aswell. Very convenient location within the mall. Look out for Timmy he is very helpful and absolutely loves his job
Great record store. Quick service, a lot of selection, great music, and constantly buying new collections! Check the website for some options.
The website, equally, offers great options, and discounts.
The website, equally, offers great options, and discounts.
I decided to go once again and spend some good time looking for Music at Sunrise Records in St. Laurent shopping centre. Upon my arrival I was looking for something specific. I noticed there wasn’t so many customers since I arrived quite early on a Sunday morning. Alexis, one of the employees, was an excellent customer service representative. She really did the best she can in assisting me choose & also give her opinion which I asked her if she wouldn’t mind.
All in all, I’ve been to this location twice in the past week. Between Alexis and Sean (the store manager) I really couldn’t ask for more customer service or good sincere help, which is sometimes difficult to receive these days in the retail world.
However, I must admit they both in their own way went up and above what the average retailer I’ve experienced would ever do, hence I hope these 2 reviews in the last week do not go unnoticed by their management (head office).
Sean and Alexis are Excellent employees, and deserve their flowers in the present time, not only from myself, hopefully from management, and others reading these reviews.
Great job 👍
Shawn Deslauriers
All in all, I’ve been to this location twice in the past week. Between Alexis and Sean (the store manager) I really couldn’t ask for more customer service or good sincere help, which is sometimes difficult to receive these days in the retail world.
However, I must admit they both in their own way went up and above what the average retailer I’ve experienced would ever do, hence I hope these 2 reviews in the last week do not go unnoticed by their management (head office).
Sean and Alexis are Excellent employees, and deserve their flowers in the present time, not only from myself, hopefully from management, and others reading these reviews.
Great job 👍
Shawn Deslauriers
Justin was extremely helpful & kind as he assisted me today. Very patient and polite, as well. Amazing customer service! Others could learn a lot from him! Give him a raise!
Excellent customer service. Super friendly team and manager. I’ve shopped at Sunrise St. Laurent mall but the FYE team at the Rideau Centre is my fav! Good selection of collectibles!
So impressed. Went in and bought an external speaker set. The guy took the time and gave me step by step instructions on hookup. Was very helpful. And success. My 47 year old son came into my place to tell me to turn my music down. Haha
Decent selection of records, but the young man working when attended this location on Monday could not be bothered to look up or acknowledge a customer when I approached him. No big deal, I just left and went to a different store. Not asking for backflips but a minimum of customer service skills…
Huge store with great quality clothing, accessories and few other items. The prices are on the higher side but very good quality. The store is very beautiful and aesthetically very pleasing..great job by the merchandising manager. The products are very well displayed and color coordinated. It is on 2 floors. Has some very unique products. Would recommend if you want to add some style to your wardrobe.
10 pinball machines plus a few free games for beginners and the best vibe! Wide selection of beers both on tap and in cans! This place is a must visit
Loaded with varieties. John pays personal attention to all customers. Akeem is an asset to this business. Loved these ultra rare pair of speakers.
What a terrible store. I attempted to order music they didn't have but both times the order was never placed. Staff claimed no record of my request.
I emailed the company but, three years later, have not received a response. As well, staff, before the pandemic, seemed to change on an almost weekly basis. Since the pandemic the store had been open the width of a table allowing one shopper at a time. The few times I've been at the location I can see a single clerk standing behind the counter. This doesn't encourage loyalty or even another chance.
I emailed the company but, three years later, have not received a response. As well, staff, before the pandemic, seemed to change on an almost weekly basis. Since the pandemic the store had been open the width of a table allowing one shopper at a time. The few times I've been at the location I can see a single clerk standing behind the counter. This doesn't encourage loyalty or even another chance.
Had the most excellent service today! I already have a good experience going there, love the things there, as lots of choice for records and my favorite anime shows!!
Great place... Slightly hidden off the main street but easy to find and has an amazing selection of new and pre-owned LP records as well as CDs and DVD movies. The staff are friendly, non-intrusive and helpful. Amazingly, there's parking! Some great finds and a whole lot of nostalgia in this place.
The Record Center is located on Wellington St. In Hintonburg & is the best vinyl store in Ottawa.
Its Like a trip down Musical memory lane with all the nostalgic memorabilia everywhere and the amazing selection of record players and vintage stereo systems.
The staff are super friendly and the owner John is usually there to greet you or exchange music tastes and stories.
The vinyl collection is second to no one in Ottawa and make sure to check out the new arrivals bin first, for a hidden gem. Every genre under the sun is represented here and they pride themselves on their Jazz collection.
So if you are a vinyl enthusiast, make sure to have the Record Center on your must visit list!
Its Like a trip down Musical memory lane with all the nostalgic memorabilia everywhere and the amazing selection of record players and vintage stereo systems.
The staff are super friendly and the owner John is usually there to greet you or exchange music tastes and stories.
The vinyl collection is second to no one in Ottawa and make sure to check out the new arrivals bin first, for a hidden gem. Every genre under the sun is represented here and they pride themselves on their Jazz collection.
So if you are a vinyl enthusiast, make sure to have the Record Center on your must visit list!
Great little place with good beer, wine and cocktail options!
Went for Pinbal League night and it was amazing! If you go for League nights it's a cover with all-you-can-play between rounds, but usually it's play-as-you-play with quarters the rest of the time. Machines are swapped out every few weeks or so. Means there's always something new to try!
I'd love to go back and have a drink with friends and casually play a few rounds. I would prefer to pay a cover and have all-you-can-play, but I know from other places I've been that can lead to people being more rough on the machines.
Went for Pinbal League night and it was amazing! If you go for League nights it's a cover with all-you-can-play between rounds, but usually it's play-as-you-play with quarters the rest of the time. Machines are swapped out every few weeks or so. Means there's always something new to try!
I'd love to go back and have a drink with friends and casually play a few rounds. I would prefer to pay a cover and have all-you-can-play, but I know from other places I've been that can lead to people being more rough on the machines.
Great selection, and a very friendly and helpful staff. A relic from a bygone era media stores may be, but Sunrise does a great job of reminding us why they matter. Do be careful though, the are occasionally slow taking sale stickers off of items after sales end. I've always had them honor the ticketed price, but I have had to point it out to them.
Aptly named, this little arcade is probably one of the best places for pinball in Toronto. Nice selection of games and a great vibe! Must-visit if you enjoy the silver ball game!
Great service and some good sales every so often. You never know what you'll find here. For a ll your entertainment needs come here. It's upstairs in the mall.
One of the best pinball locations in Toronto! Excellent range of pins in great shape and a choice of leagues and tournaments with a friendly community atmosphere.
More details: CF sells hipster bar snacks like candies, chips, pepperettes. Sunday 4 PM–midnight is $10 all-you-can-play! They now have a puzzle exchange on site to swap out your gently-used puzzles.
More details: CF sells hipster bar snacks like candies, chips, pepperettes. Sunday 4 PM–midnight is $10 all-you-can-play! They now have a puzzle exchange on site to swap out your gently-used puzzles.