What Happened to CD Clubs & Stores to Buy CDs?


I feel like I've lived under a rock for the past 2 years. I haven't bought much to add to my library in that time, and now I'm shocked.

There used to be BMG Music Club and Columbia Club. You could get most of the main Classical repertory from them, including box sets of symphonies, etc.

Now, it appears there is a BMG/Sony DVD Club that offers some CDs, but only a fraction of what was a few years ago.

For example, I couldn't find Bernstein's CBS or Solti's London Mahler cycles, except in the UK!

The site is pathetic. It is totally oriented around DVDs/movies, and searches will bring you to other websites, including Amazon.com.

What happened to all the releases of the huge and vast classical repertoire of budget, midprice, full price and sets that were so plentiful? Are they not even in print anymore?

Prices I found are higher than they were 5 years ago. I see basic 2 CD classical releases at prices like $39.95 for a DG Karajan Mahler 9th. Unbelievable.

I didn't even check the jazz repertoire to see what has happened there.

Would someone educate me in my naiveity?
saxo

Showing 1 response by chazro

My biggest problem with buying online is that you have to know something exists before buying. One of the true joys of shopping at Tower or other brick and mortar shops was discovering NEW stuff that was either just released OR that you weren't even aware existed. I've developed a whole new skill set when it comes to buying my tunes, and although I'm probably spending as much as ever, it ain't nowhere near as much fun!!!