A collection of vinyl record albums standing vertically on a shelf, showing their spines with various artist, album titles, and colors.

merle’s record rack

the home for all your music needs

OUR MISSION

Merle’s Record Rack originated in Weymouth, MA. In 1962, it established itself in New Haven and continues to be a CT institution. This company is committed to providing a unique service to meet the varied needs of its music-loving clientele. From the dedicated collectors to the music enthusiasts of all eras, Merle’s prides itself on its knowledge, experience, and passion for offering quality service to each of its customers.

services

A vintage record store filled with vinyl records on black metal racks, framed posters on the red wall, and collectible items like radios, speakers, and framed pictures, mostly of The Beatles.
McIntosh MC 2105 solid state power amplifier with meters, knobs for gain, speaker, and power, and a headphone jack.
A collection of vintage radios and stereo systems stacked on shelves in a store.

our story:

over 60 years of music & memories

Merle's Record Rack began its journey in New Haven, Connecticut in 1962. During the 1970s and ‘80s, Merle’s expanded its footprint in Southern CT, boasting seven stores at its peak. Today, Merle’s Record Rack has found its home in the heart of Orange, CT where it has grown to its services. In an era where dedicated record stores are a rarity, Merle's is proud to uphold the enduring magic of music and the cherished memories it creates.

A woman standing in a room with walls decorated with posters and pictures. She is wearing a black dress with a flower accessory on the shoulder, black stockings, and black shoes. She is smiling and holding something in her left hand. The photo appears to be vintage or old.

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Poster calling all musicians to participate in live music series at Merle's Record Rack, inspired by NPR's Tiny Desk, with contact email for details.
Inside a record store called 'Merle's Record Rack' with shelves of CDs, vinyl records, and vintage memorabilia, including Elvis records and painted bottles, arranged on a checkered black and white floor.
Interior of a vinyl record store with shelves of vinyl albums on both sides, and posters and framed photos on the back wall, including portraits of The Beatles and various album covers.
A large collection of vintage stereo receivers, amplifiers, and audio equipment stacked on shelves and a wire rack in a store or warehouse.

what our customers are saying

“Wow what a treat this visit was. Mike was helpful, had a good energy and genuinely interested in what I had to say. The atmosphere is exactly what I was looking for and more - love to have this shot of nostalgia in a digital age. Will definitely return!”
— AM
“I have a Pioneer RT-909 Reel to Reel Tape Recorder that needed a good alignment. I could not believe how perfect it sounds. Mike did an excellent job making this sound like it is brand new. ”
— GB
“Awesome store. Amazing, friendly and knowledgeable service. Fun fun fun place!”
— AR
“A pleasant store worth the 40 mile drive with a vast inventory in all formats. Mike the owner is a great guy to talk to and overall it was a great shop.”
— JD
“So lucky to have this gem in the neighborhood!!”
— MR