2. VINAL EDGE Once an Outer-Loop destination, Vinal Edge finally made the jump into the Heights in the summer of 2012. Owned by Chuck Roast -- one of Houston's most knowledgeable music lovers and certainly one of the most interesting with whom to converse -- the store now resides on 19th Street.

The larger space gives Roast the opportunity to hold more in-store appearances, and has provided some more breathing room for those navigating its ample supply of records. The selection is one of the most diverse clusters you'll find, and more stock is constantly arriving. Subscribers to the shop's e-mail list will also know that Roast occasionally releases some of his personal collection for sale, and alerts customers when newly acquired collections hit the floor for the first time.

239 W. 19th, 281-537-2575, vinaledge.com

1. CACTUS MUSIC & VIDEO The standout favorite among Houston's fine music dealers is Cactus Music, which has something for everyone. There's a litany of in-store performances gracing the calendar, with free-flowing Saint Arnold's brews accompanying each one. The Record Ranch performs double-duty operations as both vinyl digging grounds and an art gallery.

Cactus's staff is chock full of friendly folks with an abundance of musical knowledge, from owner Quinn Bishop down to the many local musicians who work behind the counter. Stock is plentiful, there are giveaways and you can even buy tickets for local concerts. It's hard to imagine someone walking out empty-handed, because there's such an astounding variety and depth to the stock. Cactus has been a frequent Best of Houston® winner and certainly for good reason, so stop by already.

2110 Portsmouth, 713-526-9272, cactusmusictx.com