When asking yourself about something to do near me in Austin with a group of friends or family, consider
End of An Ear
Why End of An Ear is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
End of An Ear is a standout record store located in South Austin, Texas, known for its exceptional selection of genre-specific vinyl records that cater to adventurous music lovers. Founded in 2005, the store quickly established itself as a pillar in Austin's vibrant music scene by offering a diverse collection ranging from rare punk singles to experimental and avant-garde works, including pieces by notable artists like Houston composer Pauline Oliveros. Beyond selling records, End of An Ear fosters a unique community atmosphere through frequent in-store performances that attract an eclectic, knowledgeable audience. These live events range from local indie bands to emerging stars such as Japanese Breakfast and Phoebe Bridgers, making the shop a hub for discovering new music and enjoying the local culture. The store also features a dedicated back room for music gear and vintage stereo equipment, enhancing the experience for audiophiles and collectors alike. With a history of accolades including multiple Best Small Record/CD Store awards and recognition as the Best Place to Sell Your Records, End of An Ear stands out as a lively, welcoming venue that combines retail with vibrant musical engagement, making it a perfect spot to meet friends and indulge in music discovery.
Here's what people think of End of An Ear
As of recent, End of An Ear holds a 4.8-star rating based on 978 reviews.
Reviews of End of An Ear overwhelmingly praise the store for its curated selection of records and welcoming atmosphere. Visitors repeatedly highlight the knowledgeable and friendly staff who are passionate about music and eager to help customers find exactly what they're looking for, enhancing the overall shopping experience. Many reviewers appreciate the store's commitment to showcasing diverse and experimental music genres, making it a favorite destination for vinyl enthusiasts who value quality and variety. The in-store performances also receive commendations for their intimate settings and the opportunity to see both local talent and rising stars in a relaxed environment. On the other hand, some negative feedback mentions occasional crowding during popular events, which can make navigating the store challenging. A few customers have noted that pricing can be on the higher side for certain rare or collectible items, reflecting the specialty nature of the inventory. Despite minor drawbacks, the consensus in the reviews is overwhelmingly positive, underscoring End of An Ear’s reputation as a cherished Austin establishment that successfully blends retail with community and culture, making it a must-visit for music lovers.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Jefe malaka
I'm a junkie for this place. Addicted. Found a few rarities here. Look at the old/used section. Always pristine condition. The new releases too. Easy to go in and spend too much. Love this store and try to come every weekend.
caleb smith
Bought a couple of vinyls, an amp, and a set of speakers with the GF. Blake was super helpful with giving me and her insight on setting it up properly. System sounds amazing! Thank you!
Nikki Pecina
Visited from out of town last week and was surprised how diverse their selection was. Found 2 vinyls I’ve been looking for and couldn’t find near me. If I’m in the area again I would definitely come back!
Michael Kuehne
Solid record store, however you're treated like you should be happy they are there. Some of the staff is pretentious. Some of the prices are above what they should be. Great selection for new releases, if you're a digger, don't bother. They have some used selections, some.
Charles Smith
Great store, wide selection, and a hifi section.
How to reach End of An Ear
None
Website: None
Why rally at End of An Ear with your friends?
End of An Ear stands out as an ideal gathering spot for friends who cherish music and unique cultural experiences. With an impressive 4.8 rating from nearly a thousand reviews, this Austin-based record store has cultivated a vibrant community atmosphere that invites music lovers of all levels to connect, explore, and share. Rallying at End of An Ear means stepping into a treasure trove of vinyl records, CDs, and memorabilia, offering an immersive experience that goes beyond typical retail. It’s a place where you and your friends can bond over discovering rare and exclusive music, exchanging recommendations, and diving into the rich history of sounds. Beyond shopping, the store’s ambiance, staff expertise, and carefully curated selection make it a hub for meaningful interaction, whether you’re die-hard audiophiles or casual listeners. Whether you want to explore new genres, trade your old records, or simply soak up the creative vibe, End of An Ear provides a welcoming and inspiring environment that fuels conversation and shared passion.
What activities can you enjoy at End of An Ear?
End of An Ear’s core appeal comes from its diverse music collection, but the activities go far beyond browsing shelves. Visitors can spend hours flipping through carefully curated vinyl in pristine condition, from classic rock to indie, hip-hop, jazz, and local Austin artists. The store often features exclusive and limited-edition vinyl releases, perfect for collectors looking to add rare finds to their troves. Since End of An Ear also buys, sells, and trades records, you and your group can engage directly with sellers or trade in your own collections, turning your visit into an interactive event where everyone participates. The staff’s expertise enables personalized recommendations, making it easy for groups with diverse tastes to discover new music tailored to their preferences. Regular store hours and an inviting layout encourage meandering and lingering, facilitating spontaneous conversations and shared discoveries that bond friends through music. Whether you’re hunting for that elusive album or introducing friends to a new genre, the activities at End of An Ear cultivate connection and enjoyment.
Why is End of An Ear perfect for a group meetup?
End of An Ear’s spacious and thoughtfully arranged store layout supports social meetups, allowing groups to explore the extensive music offerings without feeling cramped. You won’t just find music here; the environment fosters relaxed interaction, making it easy to compare finds, share stories, and discuss what you’re hearing. The staff members are more than just clerks—they serve as knowledgeable guides who bring enthusiasm to every interaction, enhancing the group experience with engaging conversations about artists, genres, and music culture. The store’s location in Austin, a city known for its lively music scene, adds another appealing dimension to meetups, as groups can combine a visit with nearby food, drinks, or live music venues. The ability to trade, sell, or buy music memorabilia on site also adds a dynamic element to group visits, providing various ways to connect beyond simply browsing. For music fans seeking both a social outing and a shared hobby, End of An Ear’s dedication to quality, inclusivity, and community makes it a standout destination.
How can you participate in buying, selling, or trading at End of An Ear?
One of the unique features that makes End of An Ear an engaging spot for groups is the opportunity to buy, sell, or trade music items. The store welcomes patrons with quality used vinyl records, CDs, cassettes, DVDs, VHS tapes, and various music memorabilia such as posters and shirts. Groups can bring their collections for appraisal during business hours and stay while the buyers examine the items. This means your meetup can also serve as an event where everyone learns the value of their collections and perhaps walks away with cash or store credit. Trading is encouraged on the spot, which introduces a lively communal marketplace vibe that encourages negotiation, excitement, and music talk. The store ensures smooth transactions by accepting multiple payment methods, including cash, check, PayPal, and Venmo, which adds ease for any group member. For collectors or casual sellers, this selling and trading experience turns a simple record shopping trip into a memorable group activity—and a way to refresh someone’s collection collaboratively.
What is the ambiance like and what makes it inclusive?
Beyond activities and amenities, End of An Ear boasts a warm and inclusive atmosphere that welcomes all music enthusiasts regardless of background. The store identifies as LGBTQ+ friendly and takes pride in being a safe, open space where diverse communities can gather and celebrate music culture together. The staff’s genuine passion and friendliness create an approachable environment where everyone feels comfortable asking questions or sharing opinions. The store’s extended hours from 11:00 AM to 8:00 PM every day provide flexibility for groups to plan visits that fit their schedules, whether day trips or early evening hangouts. The carefully curated music selection mirrors the diverse population the store serves, including local Austin artists, international music, and various genres, making diversity a living part of the experience. For friends seeking a welcoming place to gather that respects individuality and promotes shared enjoyment, End of An Ear’s ambiance is a defining feature that enriches the meetup experience.
What additional options and conveniences are there for groups visiting?
End of An Ear also boasts several practical features that enhance group visits. The store supports multiple payment methods, including credit cards and NFC mobile payments, facilitating smooth transactions when purchasing or trading music. Its location in Austin’s vibrant music district means nearby dining and entertainment options are easily accessible, so a meetup can easily extend into a full day of fun. The store features an online shop as well, allowing groups to preview music selections ahead of time or buy rare items that might be out of stock in-store, helping plan visits strategically. Importantly, End of An Ear encourages in-store shopping with all items available physically, which supports a tactile experience that vinyl lovers especially appreciate when choosing records. Finally, the business’s status as a small local store adds a personal touch that mass retailers cannot offer, lending authenticity to your group outing and supporting the local economy.
Hosting your next friends or family meetup at End of An Ear means embracing an unparalleled music experience combined with social engagement, expert guidance, and a welcoming atmosphere that celebrates all facets of music culture.