If you prefer a smaller store (size wise that is) Sonic Boom is great independant music store that feels cozy and warm. Although both the capital hill location and the ballard shop host live in stores I prefer the fremont store for it's location and vinyl annex right below. Sonic Boom has a good staff who friendly but never pushy, shop for hours, no one will get short with you. They have many alistening stationas well for you to check out newer releases before you buy, plus having one of the hipper groups of customers means better used selection which you can also listen to before you buy.
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