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5 tips for new record collectors in Vancouver

Record collecting has become a popular hobby in recent years, as people rediscover the joy of listening to music on vinyl. Whether you're a music lover or simply looking for a new hobby, record collecting can be an exciting and rewarding pursuit. If you're a beginner looking to start a record collection in Vancouver, here are some tips to help you get started.

Understand the Basics

Before you start collecting records, it's important to understand the basics of vinyl. Vinyl records come in different sizes and speeds, and they're played on a turntable with a needle that reads the grooves in the record. There are also different types of vinyl, such as picture discs and coloured vinyl, which can add to the value and appeal of a record.

Research the Best Places to Find Records

Vancouver has a thriving music scene, which means there are plenty of places to find records. Some of the best places to start your search include record stores, thrift stores, and online marketplaces like curb-side.ca or discogs.com. You can also check out local record fairs and swap meets to find rare and unique records.

Start with Your Favorite Artists and Genres

When you're just starting out, it can be overwhelming to decide what records to buy. A good rule of thumb is to start with your favorite artists and genres. This will help you build a collection that you'll love listening to, and it will also give you a foundation to start exploring other artists and genres.

Check the Condition of the Records

When you're buying records, it's important to check the condition of the vinyl and the sleeve. Scratches and scuffs can affect the sound quality of the record, so it's best to avoid records that are heavily damaged. The sleeve should also be in good condition, as this can affect the value of the record. At Curb, most of our sellers use the Goldmine Standard system to grade the records. You can find this information in the descriptions or photos.

Don't Be Afraid to Ask for Help

If you're new to record collecting, don't be afraid to ask for help. Record store employees and other collectors can offer valuable advice and insights into the hobby. You can also join online forums and social media groups to connect with other collectors and learn more about vinyl.

In conclusion, record collecting is a fun and rewarding hobby that anyone can enjoy. By understanding the basics, researching the best places to find records, starting with your favourite artists and genres, checking the condition of the records, and asking for help when you need it, you can start building a record collection that you'll love for years to come. Happy collecting!

Record cleaning tips for used vinyl enthusiasts

Are you a vinyl enthusiast in Vancouver looking to keep your records in top condition? Regular cleaning is essential for maintaining the sound quality and longevity of your vinyl collection. In this blog post, we'll cover the best ways to clean your records in Vancouver.

Invest in a Record Cleaning Machine

If you have a large collection of records, investing in a record cleaning machine may be the most efficient and effective way to clean them. These machines use a combination of cleaning solutions and brushes to thoroughly clean both sides of the record. While they can be a bit pricey, they are a worthwhile investment for serious collectors. Look for brands like Okki Nokki, VPI Industries, and Audio Desk Systeme for top-quality machines.

Use a Vinyl Record Cleaning Solution

For those on a budget, there are plenty of vinyl record cleaning solutions available that can effectively clean your records. Look for solutions that are specifically formulated for vinyl and avoid using household cleaners, which can damage the vinyl. Some popular options include the Vinyl Styl Record Cleaning Fluid, the Spin-Clean Record Washer, and the GrooveWasher Record Cleaning Kit.

Invest in a Quality Cleaning Brush

A quality cleaning brush is an essential tool for any vinyl enthusiast. Look for brushes with soft, anti-static bristles that won't scratch the vinyl. Avoid using paper towels or other abrasive materials, as they can cause damage to the record. Popular brushes include the AudioQuest Anti-Static Record Brush, the Mobile Fidelity Record Brush, and the Record Friend! Cleaning Brush.

Store Your Records Properly

Prevention is key when it comes to keeping your records clean. Store your records in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat sources. Use inner sleeves to protect the vinyl from dust and debris, and store them vertically to prevent warping.

Visit Your Local Record Store

Your local record store can be a great resource for cleaning tips and advice. Many stores sell cleaning solutions and brushes, and some even offer professional cleaning services. In Vancouver, popular record stores include Red Cat Records, Neptoon Records, and Zulu Records.

In conclusion, regular cleaning is essential for maintaining the sound quality and longevity of your vinyl collection. Whether you invest in a record cleaning machine or opt for a more budget-friendly solution, the key is to clean your records regularly and store them properly. And don't forget to consult your local record store for additional advice and resources!

Vancouver's favourite record shops

Are you a music enthusiast looking for the best record shops in Vancouver? Look no further! We've done the research and compiled a list of the top 5 record shops in Vancouver, including the popular online option, Curb-side.ca.

Red Cat Records

Located in the heart of Vancouver's Mount Pleasant neighbourhood, Red Cat Records is a staple in the city's music scene. With an impressive selection of vinyl, CDs, and merchandise, this independent record store is a must-visit for any music lover. They also regularly host in-store performances and events, making it a great spot to discover new artists and meet fellow music enthusiasts.

Neptoon Records

Neptoon Records is another must-visit spot for record collectors in Vancouver. With a wide variety of genres and a focus on Canadian artists, Neptoon is a local favourite for both new and used vinyl. They also offer a selection of CDs, cassettes, and merchandise. Stop by on a Saturday and you might even catch one of their famous $1 sales!

Beat Street Records

Beat Street Records is located in the heart of Vancouver's Downtown Eastside and has been serving the city's music scene for over 20 years. They specialize in hip hop, R&B, and electronic music, but also offer a wide selection of other genres. The staff is knowledgeable and passionate about music, making Beat Street a great place to discover new artists and expand your collection.

Zulu Records

Zulu Records is a Vancouver institution and has been a hub for the city's music scene since the 1980s. They offer a wide selection of new and used vinyl, CDs, and merchandise, with a focus on indie and alternative music. Zulu is also known for their in-store performances and events, which have featured artists such as Arcade Fire, The Black Keys, and Tegan and Sara.

Curb (curb-side.ca)

While not a physical store, Curb-side.ca is a popular online option for record collectors in Vancouver. They offer a wide selection of vinyl, including new releases, pre-orders, and hard-to-find gems. With competitive pricing and fast shipping, Curb-side.ca is a convenient way to expand your collection without leaving your house.

In conclusion, Vancouver has a thriving record store scene, with something for every music lover. Whether you're looking for new releases or rare finds, these top 5 record shops (including Curb-side.ca) are sure to satisfy your musical cravings.

Abbotsford grad launches charity auction platform

December 26, 2022 | Abbotsford | www.abbynews.com

A former Abbotsford graduate has started an auction website that is free to sellers and donates to social causes.

Curb-Side.ca founder Matt Blair said many local auction houses charge upwards of 25 per cent in fees.

”When we read the reviews and talked to sellers, we heard that fees are a pain point,” he said.

Blair, who grew up as a farm kid in Abbotsford and graduated from MEI Secondary, said he was always fascinated with the annual farm auctions.

“Essentially, anyone can hold an auction. It dawned on me that the folks participating in these auctions are paying for the audience the auctioneers bring, not necessarily the auction service. In this day and age, with social media and email lists, more and more people bring their own audience,” he said.

Blair said he wanted to create a free, self-serve platform that allows users such as charities, churches and small businesses to take advantage of their already established audiences.

“All they need to do is share their auctions with their following and let the bidding begin. After all, why pay fees when you’re bringing the crowd, right?”

While the platform is free for sellers, buyers pay a small holding fee to reserve their item until they can pick it up and pay the seller. After a successful sale, Curb-Side donates that holding fee back to social causes in local communities.

“Last year our holding fees supported an Aldergrove church’s orphanage project in Mexico,” Blair said. “We’re looking forward to doing even more this year. And, eventually, we want buyers to be able to pick their own causes.”

Blair admits that self-serve auctions aren’t for everyone, but they are a great alternative for many. The free factor makes a big difference as times are increasingly tight, he said.

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Edmonton Chosen as Test Site for New Enthusiast Auto Auction Launch

December 14, 2020 | Edmonton | www.rallyautoauctions.com 

When car enthusiast Matt Blair heard that Canadian vehicles were being rejected on American-based auction marketplaces he decided he would create a platform specifically for Canadian sellers; RallyAutoAuctions.com. 

“We decided to launch Rally in Edmonton and Vancouver, largely due to the enthusiast communities in both these cities. All four of our initial Vancouver auctions resulted in sales and some great deals for the buyers. We’re optimistic we'll see the same result this week in Edmonton," says Blair.

Rally differs from it’s American counterparts by offering free listings to sellers and only relying on a small buyer’s fee to keep the site running. The team at Rally writes the vehicle listing at no cost, recommends a reserve, provides specific instruction on photography and on how to promote a vehicle during the auction. For those not comfortable behind the camera, Rally has also lined up photographers across Canada to shoot seller’s cars. 

Assuming an auction is a success, the buyer and seller are given each other’s contact information to complete the transaction in accordance with their own Province’s rules and regulations.

Rally Auto Auctions has an audience of 2,300 followers and subscribers and is currently on boarding public and dealer inventory for 2021.

Vintage Porsche auction to support orphanage

November 2020 | Vancouver | www.rallyautoauctions.com 

Mount of Olives Children’s Village, an orphanage on Mexico’s Baja Peninsula, has had a tough year. Many of their traditional funding efforts have stalled out due to COVID-19. While the general operating budget has been supported by online fundraisers, some of their teaching programs have been put on hold due to COVID-19 and a lack of funding. Vancouver entrepreneur, Matt Blair, hopes to give them a bump start by auctioning off his collector Porsche.

“I realize how privileged I am to own vintage cars and figured there is a neat opportunity here to give something back,” says Blair. “When I auction off my Porsche later this month all proceeds above the reserve price will be donated to Mount of Olives Children’s Village.”

This couldn’t come at a better time for Mount of Olives. For several years the orphanage has been working on facilitating a Youth Automotive Program where teens learn to work on cars and even have the opportunity to learn how to drive. Unfortunately, this program has been paused due to COVID-19 lockdowns and tight funds.

“This will be such a great help – especially this year,” notes Program Director, Ruth Penner. “We typically raise funds and build awareness through in-person fundraisers and with our MOOCH (Mount of Olives Children's Home) Racing program, but we haven’t been able to cross the borders due to COVID-19.”

“This could go a long way towards getting the Youth Automotive Program rolling again. It gives our kids a foundation for their futures.”

The auction will be hosted on RallyAutoAuctions.com later this month. Updates will be available on both Rally Auto Auction's and MOOCH Racing’s social channels. 

New online option for Canucks to buy, sell collectible cars

Calgary SUN | Friday, November 13, 2020
HARRY PEGG | Harry Pegg is a lifetime member of the Automobile Journalists Association of Canada.

COVID-19 has not only closed borders, it has shut down personal contact, it's closed doors to Canadian vehicle collectors looking to sell a vehicle.

When Vancouver-based car collector Matt Blair heard that some Canadian vehicles were being rejected on American-based auction marketplaces, he decided he'd create a platform specifically for Canadian sellers.

That decision has resulted in Rallyautoauctions.com.

“With the borders closed due to COVID-19, there are very few places for Canadians to present their vehicles to an audience of enthusiasts,” says Blair.

“I've always tried to support our Canadian car culture. Building the Rally Auction platform is just another way I could do that.”

He's created a site that differs from American counterparts by offering free listings to sellers and only relying on a small buyer's fee to keep the site running.

The team at Rally writes the vehicle listing at no cost, recommends a reserve, provides specific instruction on photography and on how to promote a vehicle during the auction. For those not comfortable behind the camera, Rally has also lined up photographers across Canada to shoot seller's cars.

The site asks sellers to provide a great deal of straightforward information on a vehicle with photos that include VIN, both sides, front and rear, top and bottom, inside and out.

Assuming an auction is a success, the buyer and seller are given each other's contact information to complete the transaction in accordance with their own province's rules and regulations.

“Being a car collector myself, I think it only makes sense that I test the platform on my own vehicles first,” notes Blair.

“Rally Auctions will launch this month in November with a few of my favorites, including my treasured 1966 Porsche 912.”

It is not just collectors the site plans to service.

It's open to people who are looking to sell, or buy, a daily driver and it's open to dealerships as well. You can also buy or sell parts and accessories.

“We started pre-marketing Rally in early October, mostly via social media,” says Blair. ”Our current followers and subscribers are roughly 2,200 enthusiasts between our Instagram (@rallyauctions) and our pre-registration list.

“We've had great reaction from dealers and their input has given us some excellent ideas like shorter auction times for instance.”

The site is in the final stages of testing the platform to make the user experience as pleasing as possible and is scheduled go live later this month.

Updates, contests and more information is available at rallyautoauctions.com

Take a look. It's not your average selling site.

Closed border leads to new car marketplace

Canadian entrepreneur creates marketplace to sell his personal car collection

November 1, 2020 | Vancouver | www.rallyautoauctions.com 

When car collector Matt Blair heard that some Canadian vehicles were being rejected on American-based auction marketplaces he decided he would create a platform specifically for Canadian sellers; RallyAutoAuctions.com. 

“With the borders closed due to COVID-19, there are very few places for Canadians to present their vehicles to an audience of enthusiasts,” says Blair. “I’ve always tried to support our Canadian car culture. Building the Rally Auction platform is just another way I could do that.”