Whether you’re saving money on a newer album or rediscovering an old favorite, there are many merits to buying your CDs used. Austin has no shortage of record stores that sell old CDs at a fraction of their original price. Here are three of the best spots to get more music for less money. Each store has its own qualities and knowledgeable staff members that can help you find whatever you are looking for.

Cheapo Discs 914 N. LamarA few blocks north of Waterloo is a staple in the Austin record shop business.  Cheapo Discs can boast a wider and more diverse selection of used CDs and a completely unique atmosphere. Like Waterloo, the store keeps all of its latest arrivals in the same area. However, the new arrivals section at Cheapo is absolutely daunting, as you can easily spend a couple of hours looking through their massive selection of recent acquisitions. Cheapo also mixes in used CDs with new ones. So if you are looking for a certain artist, you can find a used copy of their newest album along with a brand new shrink-wrapped copy. Another way you can save money is by finding CDs that have a green price sticker on them. These discs, called “Skuf” discs, are more scratched than your average disc, but this knocks down the price significantly, and the discs will usually play just fine. If you are just going to rip an album into your iTunes library, it’s a great way to get albums extremely cheap, as the “Skuf” discs usually run anywhere from $4-$6.

Waterloo Records 600 N. LamarRegarded by many as Austin’s flagship record store, Waterloo Records boasts a sizable collection of both used and new CDs as well as vinyl for those who are nostalgically inclined. Dedicated to almost half of the store’s size, Waterloo’s used disc selection is wide and varied; older albums usually cost around $5 or $6, and newer albums cost around $8 or $9. Like Cheapo Discs, Waterloo also has a special section dedicated to albums they have received that week, separated by the day they were received to ensure you can find the most up-to-date arrivals. Occasionally, you can find an artist’s entire discography in the used section.  However, you may leave disappointed if you don’t have an idea of what you’re looking for before you go.  Of course, if you have the time, you can always spend an afternoon browsing the section to see what surprises you can find.  Whether you are looking for a golden-oldie or a new favorite, Waterloo veterans advise that you should always approach the used section with an open mind.   You never know what might be hiding in the bins.

End of An Ear 2209 S. 1st St.If you’d rather avoid the hustle and bustle of downtown, End of An Ear is great place to get your used CD fix in South Austin. Aesthetically, End of an Ear feels more like a record store you would stumble into in New York City or San Francisco, which gives the store a unique charm. Of the three record stores profiled, End of An Ear has the smallest selection of used discs, but it is also a much smaller store. However, if you do find an album you want, chances are that you might not have to pay very much for it. Used discs in great condition can be found for as low as $3. Additionally, the store has a massive selection of vinyl, both used and new.