Rich's Records and Audio HQ — Local services in Collinsville

Bought much of my home theater equipment from the owner years ago and I've had a bit of social interaction with him the past couple years. I took a subwoofer to him for repair of a very common problem with that particular piece of equipment. I'd had the very same problem a few years back and a very well-respected sound man fixed it for about $50.00. He even picked it up and delivered it back for that price!!! Unfortunately, he has since passed. Anyway, I even took written directions and a link to a video detailing repair to help with Rich's repair. Of course, I paid a "bench fee", and received a call a couple of weeks later telling me that they were going to outsource the repair. Another couple weeks and I was told it could be repaired for $225.00 and would be ready the next week. I agreed to the high cost because the sound is normally exceptional. Another two weeks and I get a call from Rich's who say "we're gonna have to decide what you want to do with this subwoofer". I explained that it was my understanding that the subwoofer should have already been fixed and repaired. This is when they tell me that on "closer inspection" they had discovered that the amplifier was shot. I explained that it had played beautifully until it developed the all too-familiar hum and that here were countless sources reporting the same remedy. On that and two other occasions Rich's insisted the amp was shot and would cost around $450.00 to replace!!! Remember, I had paid $50.00 before to have the same problem fixed and that I had even provided Rich's with detailed work instructions and a video on the repair. I told them to forget the repair but that I would be picking the subwoofer up. It took another two weeks or so before it was "back to the shop". Long story short... I took the subwoofer, and the same instructions, to a friend with a little soldering experience. The man was not an electrician or involved in electronics sale or repair in any way. Well, he did the repair as they were detailed in the directions and video that I provided and a week later the sub was up and running as good as new. Sad, but in my opinion, Rich's was hoping to sell me a replacement subwoofer and more than likely resell mine. All I can say is...

I wish this was my local record store! They have a good selection of new and used albums. The new stuff seemed priced fairly compared to other shops. The old stuff seemed priced better than other places I’ve shopped. They seem to price albums based on condition of the whole package, which means you can get nice vinyl with a lesser slip cover for a fantastic price. The albums were organized in a fashion that made sense and were easy to find. Plus they have plenty of discount $1 and $3 albums. The thing that separates this store from most is the selection of vintage audio equipment and their repair service. The staff are very knowledgeable about this and happy to discuss your needs/wants. Of course they have new turntables and speakers too, but the old stuff is just so cool! The atmosphere is relaxed and welcoming; music (jazz during my visit) was of moderate volume, walls covered with albums/memorabilia and showcases with rare and obscure items. I’m very glad I made an effort to stop here. A very cool place to spend some time if you’re...

All I can say about this store is that it is AWESOME!!!! I have a lower end turntable; Tim talked to me about how I could make it much better. I was sold. I did some research; I ended up purchasing a Ortophon Blue headshell and an Ortophon Blue cartridge from them. Same Price as Internet..... These folks know Vinyl and Turntables. My lowly turntable was "woken up" and sounds AWESOME! Tim and the rest of the Guys that work there are top notch. I purchase a LOT of used vinyl here. If there is a problem.... They give me store credit. I will always shop here before a big box for any vinyl or a turntable. Just talk with them; they are not trying to sell anything; they love music and are willing to discuss ways to enhance your listening experience. LOVE...