Vinyl

You know that feeling: you finally have the album in your hands, turn the sleeve over, check out the artwork and can't wait to turn on your record player. At EMP, you’ll find your favourite vinyl records. You’ll also discover soundtracks and scores if you want to experience your favourite worlds through music as well as on screen. And yes, some releases are available in special editions that simply stand out on the shelf far more than standard black vinyl.

Vinyl Records – Music made for true fans

Some albums aren’t just meant to be heard – they’re meant to be owned. Large-format cover art, leafing through the inlay, sliding the record out of its sleeve and enjoying that little grin on your face before the first track starts. That’s exactly why we love vinyl: music becomes an experience again instead of just background noise. We know your taste rarely fits neatly into one category, which is why you’ll find everything here, from uncompromising metal and guitar-driven classics to punk and alternative artists that have grown from tiny clubs to the biggest stages.

Buy Metal Vinyl – Pure heaviness for your collection

If your turntable really comes to life when metal starts playing, you’re in the right place. In our metal vinyl section, it’s not just about the album – it’s also about the edition. Remastered releases, powerful live recordings, coloured vinyl and heavyweight box sets can make a classic feel brand new again.

With Metallica, alongside the essential albums, you’ll also find collector’s favourites such as limited pressings and special editions that immediately stand out on your shelf. Iron Maiden regularly brings back its legendary studio albums and iconic live releases as beautifully remastered reissues, often in gatefold sleeves so the artwork and booklet finally have the space they deserve. Motörhead simply belongs on vinyl, whether it’s studio albums or live recordings, often available as anniversary editions. And Rammstein is perfectly suited to the format, with gatefold sleeves, anniversary editions and pressings that already feel epic the moment you open them.

Rock Vinyl Records – The real sound of guitars

AC/DC and Nirvana on vinyl deliver two completely different kinds of goosebumps, yet both sound incredible on a record player. AC/DC gives you the full rock experience: riffs that hit instantly and live albums where you can already tell, as soon as the needle drops, just how loud it’s going to get. Nirvana offers something rawer – less polished, more authentic. Perfect for evenings when you’re not just putting music on in the background but listening to an album from start to finish.

Buy Punk & Alternative Vinyl – From Underground to Cult Classics

Think of our punk and alternative section as a playlist that deliberately ignores boundaries. You’ll find Muff Potter alongside The Damned, NOFX next to Die Toten Hosen, while fans of indie and darker sounds can discover Nick Cave & The Bad Seeds, Placebo and Depeche Mode on vinyl too. If modern pop punk and alternative are more your thing, Waterparks, As It Is and Basement deserve a place in your collection.

Vinyl Editions Explained – From Limited Editions to Reissues

You’ll often see labels such as Coloured, Limited or Remastered on vinyl releases. These aren’t just marketing terms. They tell you straight away whether you’re looking at a standard pressing or a version that stands out both on your shelf and often in terms of collectability.

• Collector’s Edition: Designed for collectors who want more than just the record itself. These editions often include premium packaging, exclusive extras or unique presentation that makes them something special.
• Coloured: Instead of traditional black vinyl, these records feature coloured or patterned vinyl. They’re a visual highlight and perfect if you enjoy displaying your collection as much as listening to it.
• Limited Edition: Only a limited number of copies are produced. Once they’re gone, they’re gone. That’s why it pays to act quickly if you want a particular release in this edition.
• Remastered: The album has been sonically enhanced. Rather than simply reissuing the original recording, you get a version that has been technically improved and often sounds clearer, fuller and more powerful.
• Reissue: A reissue means the album has been released again. It’s the perfect opportunity to add classic albums to your collection without paying premium prices for original pressings, or to pick up releases that have been unavailable for years.

Frequently Asked Questions about Vinyl Records

To save you some time, we’ve put together a handy FAQ covering the questions that come up most often.

Can I pre-order Vinyl Records?

Yes, you can pre-order vinyl records from us. Simply look for the Pre-order label in the product listing. As soon as the release becomes officially available, your order will automatically be prepared for dispatch. You’ll usually also see an estimated delivery window in your basket, giving you a good idea of when your parcel is likely to arrive.

What’s the best way to look after my records?

To keep your vinyl sounding great for years, handling is everything. Hold the record by the edges and the centre label whenever possible, avoiding contact with the grooves. Store records upright and use inner sleeves to help prevent dust and warping. Before playing, an anti-static carbon fibre brush is often enough to remove dust and reduce static build-up. If a record crackles or is visibly dirty, use a suitable vinyl cleaning solution together with a soft microfibre cloth for gentle wet cleaning. Avoid storing your collection in direct sunlight or next to radiators, as heat can warp vinyl surprisingly quickly. And don’t overlook the stylus – keeping it clean protects your records and helps bring out every detail in the music.

Are there EMP Exclusive Releases?

Yes. You’ll spot them immediately thanks to the EMP Exclusive label. That way, you can see at a glance whether you’re looking at a pressing that’s only available here and not from every retailer.

Can I return my order if I'm not happy with it?

Yes. If an item isn’t quite right, you can register your return within 30 days. Backstage Club members have 100 days to return their items. The easiest way is through our returns portal.

Discover the huge selection of Vinyl Records at the EMP Online Shop

For you, vinyl is more than just a format. It’s large-scale artwork, music with character and that unbeatable feeling when a new record finally earns its place on your shelf. At EMP, you’ll find an extensive selection spanning metal, rock and soundtracks. And whenever you see the EMP Exclusive label, you’ll know straight away that it’s not something you’ll find everywhere. Browse our categories, pick up your next record and make your collection even louder.