In the heart of Rogers Park, High Voltage Records and Hi-Fi is making waves by tapping into the growing interest in vinyl records among young people. The store, located at 7013 N. Sheridan Road, opened its doors on April 25 and has quickly become a hub for those looking to start or expand their record collections.
Owner Daniel Ranegar, who began collecting vinyl while studying social work at Indiana University, has turned his passion into a full-time business. After moving to Chicago five years ago, Ranegar spent time selling records at shows and online before deciding to open a physical store in his neighborhood, close to Loyola University.
Ranegar’s journey into vinyl collecting was driven by a love for original mixes and rare finds. He believes that the analog format offers a superior sound quality compared to digital, and he wants to share this experience with a new generation. “It’s more than just the visual aesthetic of having records in your house,” Ranegar said. “You should have them because that sounds superior to digital, and you don’t have to spend a ton of money to get to that point.”
The store’s opening comes at a time when vinyl is experiencing a resurgence, particularly among Generation Z. Many young people are turning to physical media as a response to the streaming industry, with about 60 percent of Gen Z buying records, according to recent reports. However, a significant portion of these purchases are used for home decor rather than listening.
Ranegar is keen to change this trend by educating young collectors on how to build a proper stereo setup. He offers turntables, amplifiers, and speakers alongside records, aiming to make the process less daunting for newcomers. “Older people have made it overcomplicated and made younger people feel stupid for not knowing how it all works. I think I can help change that,” he said.
High Voltage Records and Hi-Fi has already seen success, selling over 1,200 records in its first month. Ranegar is excited to tailor his inventory based on neighborhood preferences, ensuring a diverse selection that includes rock, jazz, funk, soul, reggae, dub, and hip-hop.
The store is open from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday and from noon to 6 p.m. on Sundays, offering a welcoming space for both seasoned collectors and those new to the world of vinyl.
Original reporting: Block Club Chicago — read the source article.
