Recently announced by the quarterly print music journal No Depression was a list of the 75 best record stores in America. Although the full list won’t be available until the Spring 2020 issue prints, Boise’s own Record Exchange confirmed they were among the record stores listed. Named among legendary stores like Amoeba and Easy Street, we couldn’t be more thrilled that this Idaho icon is gaining some recognition! If you have yet to visit this vintage gem, then you’ll want to be sure to pay it a visit soon. It’s a must for audiophiles with a love for vintage vinyl, but it’s also so much more than that.
As Idaho's largest independent music store since 1977, we think it's safe to say that the Record Exchange is a Boise institution. Not only is it doing its part keeping vinyl alive and well, but it's also a valued part of the Boise music scene.
The Record Exchange is one of just a handful of shops in the Treasure Valley that's dedicated to buying, trading, and selling vinyl and CDs. It doesn't matter what genre, time period, or format you're looking for, the Record Exchange is likely to have it! If not, they'll happily acquire it for you.
The store's selection of vinyl is vast, and you could easily spend a few hours looking through it all. The Record Exchange prides itself in obtaining all of the newest releases, while also constantly updating their selection by trading and buying from customers.
In addition to music, the Record Exchange also carries a wide selection of movies (DVD and Blu-ray Discs), turntables and other audio equipment, vinyl accessories, and music-related merchandise like posters, t-shirts, hats, and books.
In fact, a good portion of the shop is a dedicated gift store which contains all kinds of unique items, many of which are locally made here in Boise. While perusing their selection you're bound to come across everything ranging from quirky socks to candles and incense. There's even a small cafe that serves coffee, tea, and baked goods.
The Record Exchange also regularly puts on in-store events for both local and touring acts. The annual Record Store Day event that takes place in April is always a good time and involves musical acts paired with great deals on vinyl.
Vinyl is far from dead, and that's thanks to incredible businesses like the Record Exchange. This Boise icon has been a treasured part of the community for over 40 years and we suspect it will be around for many, many more.
