The Oldest Record Store in San Luis Obispo Keeps Physical Media Alive
Located on Higuera Street in the heart of Downtown San Luis Obispo is the oldest record store in town. Home to more than 50,000 vinyls, new and old, the store is a hub for all things collectable-- CD's, tapes, video games, movies, and infinitely more. In the age of streaming and online content, Cheap Thrills keeps physical media alive and well for collectors and enthusiasts alike. Established in 1971, the store has survived two fires and bankruptcy, but the principal Richard Ferris is determined to keep the business alive. By relying on buying and reselling old vinyl, the music half of the merchandise is to provide for the community. It serves as a space where multiple generations can discover music and curate a collection that can be passed down and shared. Both Ferris and general Manager Rick LaPorte believe that physical media will remain imperative not for necessity, but for hobby. "When people come in here for the first time, I like to tell them, this ...
