Sound Exchange

I brought in my "Victrola" 6-in-1 turntable w/radio, CD player, phonograph, etc, because the turntable wasn't spinning. I called the night before to make sure they could repair it, and I had spoken with Kevin. When I arrived, one of the gentlemen behind the desk said, "we don't repair those, but I'll let Kevin take a look at it." Kevin, the gentleman I had spoken with the night before, not only looked at it, but he repaired it. He explained it was most likely the belt on the turntable had slipped off. He said that that happens in shipping sometimes. He spent about 10-15 minutes repairing it, and when I asked how much I owed for the repair, he wouldn't accept any payment. It was a very quick, easy, uncomplicated repair. I truly appreciated his kindness! He just removed the turntable and reattached the belt and made sure that the turntable spun.

Not exactly the diamond in the rough, Sound Exchange is known to people who know. I appreciated the clear labels and large print, to capture your eye from across the store. Although the vinyl was not a large surplus, they had an interesting diverse mix of music. But, the CD selection, was just as diverse, and larger, too. I appreciated how staff welcomed everyone in, then allowee people their space to browse or ask questions later. The staff on duty seemed particularly helpful when a Senior came in, arms loaded down with a turntable and cords, then sat and helped him assess the value of his equipment. Great little nugget of a shop. I hope to explore other record stores when I return to H- town and see how they all compare.

Great hidden gem. Good selection of records and very nice selection of older records priced $4.99 and finds. Also sells newer vinyl and new releases. Will definitely return.

I took my Thorens TD 166 mkIi turntable for a new cartridge. Kevin had to order some parts, but it was worth the wait. My albums sound great again Thank you, Kevin & Sound Exchange. .

If you are looking for local music on vinyl, then head to Sound Exchange! Sound Exchange also has a great selection of music both new and used. Did I mention you can pick up a turntable here too? Yep. And probably the best prices in town.

A good place to go for old school and vintage music. From records to tapes and cd's. The selection is ok, but I'm sure if you dig around you may find something you like.

Came here to have new cartridge installed; Kevin was very exacting in getting the alignment right. Nice collection of used and new records, of which I bought a few.

Mi favorite store in Houston. I liked the old location better but what can you do.

I can and have spent hours here. Great atmosphere and overall vibe = old converted house. I come here for vinyl but there's also CD's and turntables if you like. They have a high inventory turnover so always something new to look at - that also means if you find a gem, better get it because it won't be there long. Kurt is very knowledgeable across several genres - you can sift through the inventory judge free. Their inventory fluctuates across all genres depending on what he's most recently received. When I last went, his blues section was out of control (he'd just received a bunch of first pressings from France in the 60's) and I had to cap my spending. That said, if he doesn't have what you're looking for, he'll find it. Definite local treasure.

This is my go-to if I need my turntable. The record and CD selection is wide and well-priced in a strip centre in EADO plentiful and easy.A first choice

If If you have only 1 day in Houston to do record shopping as I did, the best place you can go and feel like zero disappointment,

I have a record collection that I wanted to sell so I sent over a list of the records, the album/recording number, as well as the prices I found for them (max). All I asked was for a quote, and which albums they would take. From the initial conversation with whomever male they had working it was straight up confrontational and defensive. He called my prices "absurd" and then said that I wasn't using discogs correctly, then proceeded to "man-splain" how to use it "correctly", thinking that I hadn't already done that by utilizing the "master; all albums" to compare my album numbers against other album numbers knowing full well the quote from the record businesses would be less due to their ability to make a profit and the condition of the records themselves. They want to rip you off and offer you nothing and say that they're worth nothing, and that they throw them out, when they albums previously sold for a profit, though not much of one. The guy said that he was "just being blunt and honest" but really it was just an excuse for him to be an asshole. There is no customer service - avoid this record store at all costs. Some of the records I have were purchased from this store by my parents. Jerk.

Wonderful shop. Fixed my turntable like new. The also have a Selection of vinyl is good

Love the vibe in this spot. The block gives the sixth street Austin vibe and the store matches. I loved the selection. I needed an extra few hours to do a complete walk through. Only thing missing for me is a refreshment bar.

Smallish record shop, but their prices are fair and the quality of the records is excellent. Definitely worth a stop if you're looking for rock, metal, or alternative.

Nice selection! The first thing I noticed was a LOT of punk/goth music, but they have quite a bit of other types. We found a few things we couldn't live without. Bathroom has signed posters with hilarious messages. Not the biggest of stores but if you're in the area, it's worth a look.

Random spot found while driving around town and since I'm a novice record collector, I decided to give it try. I found some great records in the hiphop selection but I ended up leaving with a Stereolab gem! I will for sure go back when I'm in the area! Peep their Limited Editions section while digging! You'll be in awe.

Can here have my turntable repaired. Simple & prompt process, very reasonable repair fee, and I am very satisfied with the outcome. Definitely recommend for this service.

Cute little house with music in it--vinyl discs, off-topic CDs, cozy house, and with an owner that doesn't speak at all. He just smacks really loud when he eats. The music he has, is limited and off-topic from artists I've never heard of.

Sound Exchange is my all-time favorite record store. this is where you'll find obscure, experimental, punk, post-punk, alternative, metal, classic rock, jazz, soul, reggae, local, a killer 12" singles section, etc. What you won't find is maybe some of the mundane current top 40, though there is a good hip hop/ rap selection and killer soundtracks as well. I don't get some of the negative comments one bit. like I really don't get it. what's creepy about sitting quietly while you have your own record shopping experience? It's like a library with really cool music in the background. would you go to a library and expect the librarian to come at you with a bunch of books? so why would you expect the record store staff to do that with records? Well, unless they know you, which happens once you've established a rapport. I love walking in and Kurt recommending some killer stuff or hearing both Kurt and Kevin playing music that sounds so good to me that I have to know what they're listening to. What's wrong if the people in the shop are quiet? what will be the next complaint, that they talked too much? that they "mansplained" a record to you? That they are too loud? This ain't Empire Records (look it up if you're not familiar) where there's Gen-X drama for your mama at every turn! The staff is knowledgeable AF! In fact, the most knowledgeable I've ever seen at any record store. There's no pretentiousness and they genuinely appreciate having conversations. But you have to ask. Just ask. Seriously. Just ask. That's what I do and have walked out with some of the best musical discoveries pretty much ever. I've been crate digging since I was a kid. We have some killer shops in Houston, in fact, some of the best! (Keep your Austin. I'll take H-town record shops any day.) I've also been to various shops around the country. However, I have the best in my own backyard. Plus, sound exchange have a restroom for patrons. Speaking of restrooms, my only gripe about other record shops is some don't allow shoppers to use their restroom, so make sure you call ahead if you have bladder issues. In all, Sound Exchange is a chill place that holds free shows, showcases movies here and there, has a restroom for customers, a wonderful staff, a killer selection of records, CDs, and neat stuff in the display cabinet. Just go there and see for yourself. You'll be glad you did.

My 2nd favorite record store (I work at my 1st favorite :) ) in Houston! They are not your run of the mill record store. You will not find your Taylor Swifts or whatever hot new thing is out now here. You will however come across plenty of awesome and reasonably priced gems though! I'm having a hard time figuring out why there's so many 1 and 2 star reviews for Sound Exchange, but my guess is that those are from people who don't frequent record stores. Yes the music is different, yes the people that work here are quiet (but so are most people that work at these types of establishments), and yes it is small, and all those things are just fine! If you want an "authentic" record shop experience, this is a place to check out!

Great place! Been shopping there since the early 90s. Recently bought several used (2nd hand) records and unlike the ones I got from Half Price Books these are all flawless!

Had wanted to check this place out for awhile and stopped in, asked if they were hiring and was promptly told no. Another gentleman loudly exclaimed have a nice day and escorted me out, closing the door behind me? Guess they didn't want me in their store. Looked cool from the outside tho

I travel 5 weeks a year shopping for records, nationwide. this place has interesting stuff. I am not endlessly flipping thru mainstream garbage. I always find something small, diy, rare-ish... unique. perhaps the weirdo locals prefer selling to SE? I dunno. anyway, try it out, support it, seems very mom n pop. see you in 2013!

One of the handful of sweet record stores in the city, Sound Exchange is really one of my favorites. Though relatively small, their inventory has a nice mixture of classic, semi-old, used, and new records so regardless of what category you fit into, you'll have something to look at here. I really like their used and new sections and I''ve even found some great deals on local records here as well. Some of my favorite used gems have been found here and the employees are both knowledgeable and friendly. Most importantly, they don't bug you or constantly ask if you need anything. Sound Exchange is known for being really open to carrying local acts music (including my own) and welcome all local albums regardless of how big the artist is. I was told about this place by a friend and have really enjoyed every trip I've made, even the ones where I leave without buying something. If you're looking for something indie or even obscure, you might start here because you never know what goodies lie in the bins of this funky old house.

If you like KTRU or KPFT, you'll probably like Sound Exchange, since it features a lot of local albums and other indie productions. If you like music, you may also like Sound Exchange. Used music and new music, CDs and records, music that deserves to be listened to (mostly) at least once. This cozy house isn't just for "local music snobs" (thanks, Houston Press), but it may expand your horizons beyond what's on mainstream stations. Give them 30 minutes of your browsing time on a Saturday afternoon. If you have CDs to sell, you may also like Sound Exchange. They might not buy your Britney Spears, but they do offer a pretty fair exchange rate.

This is definitely a place you want to visit if you're a music lover with an ear for the underground. Not only is the business a Houston institution for punk and metal releases, the physical building adds flavor to what could otherwise be a boring, sterile retail environment. Disclaimer: Since I am a metal fan, this review is somewhat skewed towards that. Firstly I should say that I am happy there is a marquee place where Houston metal bands can be proud to sell their material, and a business that is happy to have it. Sound Exchange also does their part for the local music community by actually hosting bands as well. While their musical selection is superb, the only thing that stops me from giving them a full five stars (I'm actually wishing I could do 4.5) is the small inventory. I think this store could do well with a metal section twice the size of what is there now. Also, if metal on vinyl is important to you, this is not the best place to be for that. The selection is even smaller. Even then, there are gems here. As far as the competition goes, you'll find that this place sells many less commercially popular items than Soundwaves and Cactus Music. This place's inventory selection feels more like Vinal Edge to me. However, the pricing here for metal albums usually beats the aforementioned as well.

Sound Exchange is a Houston staple for independent music. They have been supporting our local music scene since God knows when. I've got tons of high-school memories discovering local talent here - if not just shopping and seeing all the cute indie rocker boys of yore... If you are looking for something old or new, stop on in and talk to Kevin, Kurt or even Baby Beau and they can recommend you a disc (better yet, an LP). Love me some SoundEx...

This shop is packed with musical hidden jewels. I especially like the back room with a collection of off the wall vinyl and hodge-podge of parts for your players and let's not forget the "Metal" collection.

Great store, last of its kind. Its hard to find a CD store anywhere anymore.. Let alone one with VERY rare CD's. They have tons of different types as well as lots of neat DVD's and posters. I love this store, if you ever need a REAL, old school cd for any bands this is the place to go.. FOR SURE

Great little shop located in what used to be a two-story house. The selection isn't the largest, but the owner is nice and has a nice selection of albums from bands that many people probably don't even know exist. I was introduced to a few bands either because the owner was playing them over the loudspeakers or by perusing the racks of CDs. My friends also managed to find some interesting albums for themselves. Definitely a good place to shop.

While Sound Exchange's inventory may be relatively small, the quality is hard to beat. They've got a great selection of local artists as well as a well-curated collection of indie, punk, and metal. (I can't speak for the used rock section as I rarely am drawn to those records)Their prices are consistently some of the best deals in town and competitively matched with Amazon and Discogs sellers. If you're looking for music that goes beyond the more mainstream/beginner indie found at your average record store, Sound Exchange is the perfect place.

Great record store!!! Great selection! Friendly staff.

A Houston treasure! An independent record store that also repairs/sells used turntables. It carries new and used vinyl, CD's, zines etc. Although it does not carry every CD/record out there (although the can probably order it for you), it carries a great selection of music. I enjoy the fact that I can go record shopping without being totally overwhelmed by titles and I always find plenty of records I want to buy. A great supporter of local music and musicians.

This was my first time going into a record store and I'm happy this was my first one. The gentleman that own the shop, Kevin and Kurt, are remarkably nice men. They are great at offering recommendations and they make sure you enjoy yourself while you are in the store. They allow you to comfortably browse without hassling you to buy something or trying to sale you. They had so many amazing records that I haven't seen in forever. I can see why people spend so many hours in this place. I will definitely be showing up there again.

A very boring selection. Got the typical metal, hip hop and 'indie' tags. The small psy area was neglected. You will not find disco/boogie or any other dance styles.

Can't recommend this place enough. It's been a Houston staple for years. Tons of great metal, punk and everything else. Also can usually order anything I can't find. They also fix turntables. It's fair prices and my table came back like brand new!

I love this place! out of the few independent record stores in the loop, this one is the best. they have the best prices, selection, and knowledge of music. They also sell and repair turntables, and i think they sell needles for record players.

To be honest, I really wish I could like this place. I recently purchased a turntable and I am constantly searching for quality vinyl records. The prices at Sound Exchange are rather high for pre-owned vinyl. There is a bargain section in the back of the store, but the majority of the records are badly scratched or damaged. From my personal experience, the staff was not particularly friendly or helpful. You'd probably be better off making a trip to Traders Village, Half Price Books, or Cactus Music for your vinyl purchases.

Excellent selection of LP's and 45/7" records, same guys have been here since I was a teenager in the 90's -- still playing cool stuff. Still have the impossible to find LP's you've looked for years for, example of that being a quality LP of ziggy stardust for $15 - yeah I'll take that thanks. Good people, good selection, timeless store. Bless them for being there.

Great LOCAL cd/records aka vinyl shop...lots of texas/houston music + indie stuff...punk rock too 7"?...use to have a good hip-hop section too...

I always find something interesting here. The employees are super helpful and I've had them special order music for me... arrives quickly and their prices are reasonable. Great selection of local stuff.

Fast, fair, friendly. Quaint old house turned into a business. Full of interesting memorabilia. Owned by the son of music teachers. Park around back. The front lot has room for 3 cars at the most, and it is much safer and easier to exit from the back parking lot.

Bar none the best place to buy a record in Houston. At first glance the staff appears to be mute; however, when approached they are always very helpful and one of them has a kick ass pompadour. I have discovered a lot of great music just by blindly purchasing albums with a "recommended by sound exchange" sticker on the cover. They always reasonably price their classics and are equipped and ready to usher anyone into the realms of musical obscurity. Great place!

I can't believe I have not reviewed Sound Exchange. I love this creeky old store. They might not have as big of a selection as say Cactus or Heights Vinyl, but they make up for it in quality. Every time I come in here, and browse through the bins, I always find awesome gems. The used vinyl quality itself is as good as it gets. No scratches, and almost all basically ready to play with minimal to no cleaning needed. The overall selection is incredibly well curated. Anything from used CD's, local artists, Metal, or that rare Coltrane or Bobby Blue Bland record...King Crimson...yes please. Prices are reasonable, and the people that work here are really friendly and knowledgeable. Along with turntables and equipment for sale. Anything to get you started, or to fix that old turntable you have had sitting around forever. They will help you get what you need. There is a reason they have been open for about 30 years. Along with Vinyl Edge, probably the best used record store in Houston.

I was wanting to get some classic rock cd's to jam with my system, search around on Yelp and found this place. So, my sister and I ventured out on a quest to Houston's record shops. First on our list was Sound Exchange, upon arriving we noticed this place was a house turned into vinyl and cd shop. The front has very minimum parking (2 vehicles max) and the back had a little more parking. So, I was excited to find what the other Yelpers were hyped about. We walked in-- the large wooden squeaked as the wooden floor made a crackling sound on each step. We was approached by the owner and I spoke-- saying "Hi". The owner ignored me like we wasn't even there and stared at us as he ate his sandwich. Crunchy loud as if the lettuce or food was made extra crispy, that's all I heard and the psychedelic music calmly playing in the background. The selection of the cd's were small, it looked like were used and repackaged. Sound Exchange had a no Bad Company or Fleetwood Mac, but had Pink Floyd and lots of it. But I was wanting to get all the cd's at once, as for the owner he is quiet and ignored our presence. The store does not have a wide selection in CD's for classic rock, but great for punk, metal, and indie.

This place has gotten considerably worse the past few years. It used to be the go-to spot. But the prices have gotten higher, while the selection has gotten much smaller and not as quality. C+

This shop is the best place in town to find a nice, vintage turntable at a great price. It's great to have a shop in town that can repair turntables and have a great knowledge of music. I've found some great used soul and jazz records at fair prices. Cool psych/prog/kraut section gives them brownie points aswell. The staff isn't very talkative, but they are helpful. I've also learned that anything that says "recommended by sound exchange" will be interesting and most likely very good.