If you’re a vinyl collector, mastering vinyl record collection tracking is the best way to keep your growing library organized.

Discogs

Discogs is a popular online database of music that allows users to catalog their collections. It’s one of the most comprehensive databases available, and it includes information on nearly every release ever made. With Discogs, you can easily add new records to your collection, view your collection statistics, and create a wish list of records you want to buy.

To use Discogs, you’ll need to create an account and start adding records to your collection. You can do this manually by searching for the release on Discogs and adding it to your collection, or you can use the barcode scanner in the mobile app to quickly add records to your collection.

A smartphone displaying the Discogs app placed in front of a neatly organized vinyl record collection in a wooden crate.

Spreadsheets

If you prefer to keep your collection offline, you can use a spreadsheet to track your vinyl. Google Sheets is a free option that allows you to access your spreadsheet from anywhere, as long as you have an internet connection.

You can create columns for the artist, album title, year, label, and other relevant information. You can also add columns to track the condition of each record, its value, and whether it’s in your personal collection or for sale.

Using a spreadsheet is a simple and customizable way to keep track of your vinyl collection. Plus, you can easily sort and filter your records to find specific releases.

A smartphone displaying a digital spreadsheet next to a physical collection of vinyl records.

Vinyl Cataloging Apps

There are several mobile apps available that are specifically designed for cataloging vinyl collections. These apps allow you to scan the barcode on the record to quickly add it to your collection.

You can also add information about the condition of the record, its value, and where you purchased it. Some popular vinyl cataloging apps include: CLZ Music, VinylWall, and Record Scanner. These apps are great for collectors who want a dedicated vinyl cataloging tool that’s easy to use.

A person using a smartphone camera to scan the cover art of a vinyl record for cataloging

Organizing Your Vinyl Collection

In addition to cataloging your vinyl collection, it’s important to keep it organized. There are several ways you can do this, depending on the size of your collection and your personal preferences.

Some collectors prefer to organize their records alphabetically by artist, while others prefer to organize them by genre or release date. You can also use dividers to separate your records into categories, such as rock, jazz, and hip-hop.

Whatever method you choose, make sure it’s easy to access and maintain. That way, you can quickly find the records you want to listen to and keep your collection in top shape.

A macro close-up of a black vinyl record showing the run-out groove, the smooth, circular space between the end of the music tracks and the center label, with visible etched matrix numbers.

The Pro Secret: Tracking by Matrix Numbers

If you want your vinyl record collection tracking to be truly professional, you have to look beyond the album title. Many records have multiple pressings from different years, and their values can vary wildly. To ensure accuracy, check the matrix number, the alphanumeric code etched into the “run-out” groove (the smooth space between the music and the label).

Entering this specific code into Discogs or your spreadsheet ensures you are tracking the exact version you own, whether it’s a rare first pressing or a modern reissue. This level of detail is essential for insurance purposes and for serious collectors who want to know the true market value of their crates.

Conclusion

Keeping track of your vinyl collection is essential for any serious collector. With the right tools and methods, you can easily organize and catalog your records, making it easy to keep track of your collection and find the records you want to listen to.

Whether you choose to use an online database like Discogs, a spreadsheet, or a mobile app, make sure to keep your collection organized and in good condition.