This relative newcomer to the vinyl scene is aptly named: Big Dig is loaded with underground music — including an impressive amount of local punk — alongside the standard rock and jazz. Its owners seem happiest rummaging through long-forgotten collections for gems (they gladly make house calls). Looking for cassettes or CDs? The stock at Big Dig is growing faster than a Boston tunnel project’s budget.

With music, sometimes only a classic will do. That’s Cheapo, a Central Square mainstay since 1954. The rarities behind the counter are the stuff of any collector’s dreams (including plenty of original pressings) and the stock of new and used records is continuously being refreshed. Sellers can trust their pre-loved vinyl to the capable hands of curators paying fair prices for the good stuff.

Good Taste isn’t the biggest record store — nor does it need to be. From rare grooves to the latest drops, the selection here focuses on quality over quantity. Offerings range from hip-hop to metal to nostalgia, and include a growing collection of used records.

This Beacon Hill spot is on Joy Street — and for vinyl collectors, there may be no happier place. Music Research Library has become a destination for its deep — and deeply varied — collection of clean, used vinyl. There are plenty of classics, but it’s the rare and obscure selections, including many international artists, that have disc diggers coming back for more.

Stereo Jack’s was a Cambridge stalwart before packing up — with longtime employee Chris Anzalone newly at the helm — for Somerville’s Ball Square in 2022. Now the reins have been passed to manager Wayne Rogers, who will own and operate the beloved store for years to come (we hope).

This Coolidge Corner spot is the place to find that record you never knew you needed until you got there. Congolese jazz? A Disney animated movie soundtrack? A throwback compilation of Soul Train hits? Check. Check. Check. The store is intimate and the staff are helpful — the type of people who care about music and sound quality.