The exterior, entrance and interior
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Phonica Records

4.5
·834 reviews·, United Kingdom

London's premier destination for electronic music vinyl, offering the latest releases and a curated selection for DJs and collectors.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday afternoons

Fewer crowds, more digging time

CrowdLow
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The exterior, entrance and interior

Phonica Records

Best Time

Weekday afternoons

Fewer crowds, more digging time

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

London's premier destination for electronic music vinyl, offering the latest releases and a curated selection for DJs and collectors.

4.5
(834 reviews)

"Amazing vinyl record store in London, beyond my expectations for rare dance and electronic music."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎧 Dig for Gems

Spend time exploring the shelves; you might find rare dance and electronic music records.

👂 Test Before You Buy

Utilize the listening stations to preview tracks before making a purchase.

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Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Electronic Music Paradise

Electronic Music Paradise

Discover a vast collection of house, techno, deep, and electronic music vinyl. Perfect for DJs and collectors seeking fresh and rare finds.

Knowledgeable Staff

Knowledgeable Staff

Get expert recommendations from staff who are passionate about music and can guide you to your next favorite record.

Listening Stations

Listening Stations

Test out any record before you buy. Immerse yourself in the sound and ensure it's the perfect addition to your collection.

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Planning Your Visit

Dive into the Vinyl Scene

Phonica Records is a haven for electronic music enthusiasts. Expect a curated selection of new and used vinyl, with a strong focus on house, techno, and deep genres. Come prepared to dig; the staff are knowledgeable and helpful if you need recommendations. Reddit

Soho's Music Hub

Located in the heart of Soho, Phonica is a must-visit for any vinyl collector. It's known for its excellent selection of dance and electronic music, making it a prime spot for discovering new tracks. Instagram+1

Best Times

When
Weekday afternoons
Why
Fewer crowds, more digging time
Crowd
Low
When
Saturday mornings
Why
New releases arrive
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

#thomasedison #phonograph
@wyattssaab
304.3K likes • 2.7M views

🎧 Dig for Gems

Spend time exploring the shelves; you might find rare dance and electronic music records. InstagramReddit

👂 Test Before You Buy

Utilize the listening stations to preview tracks before making a purchase. Reddit

How Vocals were recorded in the 1890s! With: @wyattssaab #edison #edisonphonograph #1890s #waxcylinder #sound #phonograph #cylinderphonograph #piano #quartet #vocals #singing #fyp #foryoupage #acousticrecording #recording #1911 #columbia #oldtech #oldtechnology
@baysiderecordco
104.5K likes • 761.5K views
Top 5 record shops in Soho❤️ Did we miss any out? Let us know🙏 #soho #london #recordshop #rsd #vinyl #records #phonica #londonlife
culturecalling
21 likes • 737 views

🗣️ Ask the Experts

The staff are incredibly knowledgeable and can offer great recommendations for house and techno. InstagramReddit

💸 Price Check

Be mindful of prices, as some 12-inch records can range from £10-£15. Reddit

cosmic girl & i are very fortunate to get the last copy of our “caviar jazz” double vinyl album at one of the best record shops in the world, “phonica records” in london as its sold out see you at our “caviar jazz” album launch at the standard, london, saturday 11th october 2025, 8pm - 12am blessings everyone 🎵❤️
dafunkiejunkie
26 likes • 168 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎧 Dig for Gems

Spend time exploring the shelves; you might find rare dance and electronic music records. InstagramReddit

👂 Test Before You Buy

Utilize the listening stations to preview tracks before making a purchase. Reddit

🗣️ Ask the Experts

The staff are incredibly knowledgeable and can offer great recommendations for house and techno. InstagramReddit

💸 Price Check

Be mindful of prices, as some 12-inch records can range from £10-£15. Reddit

📍 Soho Location

Conveniently located in Soho, making it easy to combine with other London explorations. Instagram+1

What Travellers Say

4.5
(834 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Phonica Records is widely praised as an exceptional vinyl store, particularly for electronic music enthusiasts. Visitors highlight the extensive and well-curated selection, the helpful and knowledgeable staff, and the convenient listening stations. While some find the prices for certain records a bit high, the overall experience is overwhelmingly positive, making it a must-visit for DJs and collectors.

"Amazing vinyl record store in London. Phonica was part of my vinyl safari throughout the city and it was beyond my expectations. I've found some rare and great dance and electronic music records. The staff was very helpful and I wish I've stayed longer digging for more music and enjoyed the vibe of the people visiting the store. Will come back! Phonica Records is owned by The Vinyl Factory music company."

Analia Croci

"Very good quality of music, lots of house music, techouse, deep, techno, I loved the store and buyed 10 records , the guy who attended was very friendly and 5+++++ i live in dublin but i will return soon 😊 you can listen your records before buy it , always good music playing."

Dj Apois Tiago Sousa Artist

"This shop has amazing service, great stuff, good music, and it’s in an awesome spot! I really liked it and totally recommend it, can’t wait to come back."

Fabian Music

What People Like

Amazing vinyl selection
Knowledgeable staff
Listening stations available

What People Dislike

Some prices high

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Phonica Records is located at 51 Poland St, London W1F 7LZ, in the heart of Soho. The nearest Tube stations are Oxford Circus and Tottenham Court Road, both within a short walking distance. Many bus routes also serve the area. Instagram

Yes, Phonica Records is very accessible by public transport. It's a short walk from major Tube lines and numerous bus routes, making it a convenient destination for visitors. Instagram

From central London, you can easily reach Phonica Records via the Tube to Oxford Circus or Tottenham Court Road stations, followed by a brief walk. Alternatively, many bus routes stop nearby. Instagram

Parking in Soho can be challenging and expensive. It's generally recommended to use public transport to reach Phonica Records rather than driving. Instagram

Cycling is an option, and there are usually bike racks in the Soho area, though they can fill up quickly. Be sure to secure your bike properly. Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, there are no tickets required to enter Phonica Records. It's a retail store, and you can browse and listen to records freely. Instagram

Phonica Records typically opens around 10 AM and closes around 7 PM on weekdays and Saturdays. It's always a good idea to check their official website or social media for the most up-to-date hours, especially on holidays. Instagram

There is no admission fee to enter Phonica Records. You are welcome to browse their extensive collection of vinyl. Instagram

Yes, Phonica Records offers pre-orders for new releases, including their own label releases. Keep an eye on their social media and website for announcements. Instagram

Phonica Records occasionally hosts in-store events, DJ sets, and artist appearances. Following their social media channels is the best way to stay informed about these happenings. Instagram+1

🎫 🎧 Onsite Experience

Phonica Records specializes in electronic music, with a strong emphasis on house, techno, deep house, and related subgenres. They also carry a selection of other dance music styles. Reddit+1

Absolutely! Phonica Records provides listening stations, allowing you to sample any record before making a purchase. This is a highly appreciated feature by customers. Reddit

The vibe at Phonica Records is that of a dedicated music hub, attracting passionate DJs and vinyl enthusiasts. It's a place where you can immerse yourself in music and connect with like-minded individuals. Reddit+1

Phonica Records primarily focuses on new releases and pre-orders, but they also have a selection of used electronic music vinyl. Their curated approach ensures quality across their stock. Reddit

Yes, many visitors report finding rare and sought-after dance and electronic music records at Phonica Records. Their specialized selection increases the chances of discovering unique tracks. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Yes, Phonica Records is located in Soho, an area brimming with diverse dining options. You'll find everything from quick bites to upscale restaurants just a short walk away. Instagram

It's generally best to consume food and drinks outside the store to maintain the cleanliness of the records and equipment. There are many cafes and eateries nearby. Instagram

Soho offers a vast culinary landscape, including British pubs, Italian trattorias, Asian street food, cafes, and fine dining establishments. You'll easily find something to suit any craving. Instagram

📸 📸 Photography

While there's no strict policy against it, it's always polite to be mindful of other shoppers and staff. Quick snaps are usually fine, but avoid lengthy photoshoots that might disrupt the store's atmosphere. Instagram

The shelves packed with colorful vinyl, the listening stations, and the general ambiance of a bustling record store offer great photo opportunities. Capturing the vibrant energy of the space can make for interesting shots. Instagram

It's best to ask permission before taking close-up photos of specific records or, especially, of the staff. Respecting privacy is key. Instagram+1

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

While Phonica Records is primarily a specialist music store catering to adult collectors and DJs, families can still find it an interesting stop. The sheer volume of records and the vibrant atmosphere can be visually stimulating for children. However, it's important to manage expectations, as the focus is on electronic music, which may not hold a child's attention for long. Instagram

Consider it a quick browse rather than an extended visit. The listening stations might offer a brief moment of engagement if a child is curious about sound. Due to the nature of a record store, keeping a close eye on children is advisable to prevent them from damaging the delicate vinyl. The surrounding Soho area offers plenty of family-friendly dining and entertainment options for before or after your visit. Instagram

🎧 DJs and Serious Collectors

Phonica Records is a pilgrimage site for serious DJs and vinyl collectors. The store's reputation for stocking a deep and current selection of electronic music, particularly house, techno, and their subgenres, is unparalleled. You'll find the latest releases, sought-after pre-orders, and potentially rare back-catalog items that are crucial for building a professional or extensive personal collection. Reddit+1

The knowledgeable staff are invaluable resources, able to offer insights into new artists, trending sounds, and specific track recommendations. The ability to test every record at the listening stations ensures that your purchases meet your exact sonic requirements, saving you from potential disappointment. This focus on quality and curation makes Phonica a top-tier destination for those who live and breathe vinyl. Instagram+1

🚶 Solo Explorers

For solo travelers looking to immerse themselves in London's music scene, Phonica Records is an ideal stop. You can spend as much time as you like browsing at your own pace, delving into the extensive collection without any pressure. The listening stations allow for a personal and in-depth exploration of potential purchases. Instagram

Engaging with the staff is easy and rewarding for solo visitors seeking recommendations or information about specific genres or artists. The store's location in Soho also makes it a great starting point for a day of exploring the city's cultural offerings. It's a place where you can connect with your passion for music on your own terms. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Phonica Records Experience: More Than Just a Shop

Phonica Records isn't just a place to buy vinyl; it's a destination for music lovers. The store is renowned for its meticulously curated selection of electronic music, making it a go-to spot for DJs and collectors alike. From the latest house and techno releases to more niche genres, the shelves are packed with potential discoveries. The staff are not just employees; they are passionate music aficionados who are happy to share their expertise and guide you through the vast collection. InstagramReddit

One of the most appreciated features is the presence of multiple listening stations. This allows customers to thoroughly preview any record before committing to a purchase, a crucial aspect for serious vinyl buyers. This commitment to the customer experience, combined with a consistently high-quality stock, has cemented Phonica Records' reputation as one of the best record shops in London and beyond. Reddit

The store's location in the vibrant heart of Soho further enhances its appeal. It's a place where you can spend hours digging through crates, soaking in the atmosphere, and perhaps even catching an impromptu DJ set or artist appearance. It truly embodies the spirit of a dedicated music community. Instagram+1

Navigating the Vinyl Landscape: Tips for Collectors

For vinyl enthusiasts visiting Phonica Records, preparation and a keen eye are key. While the store is well-organized, the sheer volume of records means that dedicated digging is often rewarded. Don't hesitate to ask the staff for recommendations; they possess an intimate knowledge of the stock and can point you towards hidden gems or new artists that align with your tastes. InstagramReddit

Be aware of the pricing, as some 12-inch records can be an investment, ranging from £10 to £15. However, the quality and rarity of some finds can justify the cost for dedicated collectors. The listening stations are your best friend here – use them to their full potential to ensure each purchase is a satisfying one. Reddit

Phonica also champions new releases and supports smaller labels, so you're likely to find cutting-edge music alongside established favorites. Keep an eye on their social media for announcements about new arrivals, pre-orders, and potential in-store events, which can offer unique opportunities to discover music and connect with the scene. Instagram+1