PDQ Records

Best record store in Tucson. For those who think it’s overpriced, check any other record store in any other city and see how much cheaper they are here. Fabulous catalog of vinyl gems.

This is a true collector’s store. They don’t seem to bother with new releases at all, but they have a huge stock, though it has the feel of a place that’s already been picked over. That said, that’s true of every record store like this. You might luck out from time to time, however, and find a good or even sealed copy of an old cult album. They’re a touch overpriced, particular when it comes to «imports» from 25+ years ago and sought-​after albums that are a little worn out. Again, though, that’s par for the course for this sort of thing.
If you’re a tape fan, be a little wary of their stock. It’s definitely overpriced and frequently in shoddy condition, either through sheer dirtiness or mechanical flaws (i.e. pressure pads falling off). They tape the cassette cases shut, too, which I hate as a rule. You can occasionally score something good, but you might be better served hoping it turns up at Bookmans or even going online where sellers might have made sure their stuff works.
Their CD selection isn’t even really worth mentioning. They also might not be able to find what you’re trying to buy because the previous ownership (who apparently ran the place into the ground) used a dumb filing system.
By far their biggest sin, though, is not have air conditioning. (Though they may be working on that? The building has had work-​in-​progress feeling for sure since it reopened.) One would be wise to avoid PDQ entirely during the summer, especially since they’re only open 10 – 6 Wed-​Sun.
The staff just seems like a bunch of fellow record nerds. They’re fairly friendly and nice about exchanges.

It’s 2014, and yes, PDQ is open again!
Have you ever wondered what it’s like to walk inside of a time capsule? Well, come in to PDQ. It’s like nothing every changed. It’s… exactly the same. Their are dusty old records (perhaps due to the construction). Do you seek 8tracks? Do you have a hankering for VHS tapes still? Then you need to come to PDQ. It’s all here. It hasn’t changed much. You can still buy singles of records in those little boxes on the shelves.
Hipsters can breath a sigh of relief: PDQ Records is open. When I popped by in December, they closed at 6. I’m sure the hours will increased. I gave up my record player long ago, but PDQ is local, and awesome. If you need records, GO.

PDQ used to be the place to go in town for vinyl. Not so much anymore. They overprice everything and the staff can lean into high fidelity esque snobs. I say spend your money at twist n shout or bookmans even.

A ton of records, but not much worth having. What is worth having is way overpriced ($ 8 for a scratched up lp). Customer Service is not consistent. Sometimes great, sometimes piss poor. Just depends who is working.
Went there today for National Record Store Day. No sale at all, just the same overpriced albums no one has bought since last time I was there.
I’ll just keep shopping ebay for my vinyl. bummer.

PDQ used to be the highlight of my annual Tucson pilgrimage – I pulled a lot of great stuff outta there in the last 12 or so years, but last May (2008) when I was there, I was very disappointed in what it’s turned into. The place is so picked over, and the records so ratty, and generally so overpriced that I will not go back… and Bookman’s vinyl selection really sucks. I was bummed! I’m looking forward to checking out Twist & Shout when I’m there this May.

Pretty much my heaven… Minus some of the wallet murdering prices.