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I find that using a randomizer to identify the record to play is a pretty fun way to do it. I have a few methods I have used and would like to see if there are other methods that would be fun. I have used three different ways.
The first was to log my records in Excel and then divide the number one by the number of records I have assigning each record a value Then using the random number function I used another function called vlookup to identify the value to pull. This works fine but there were a few issues. Any time I added a new record I would have to edit the functions. More importantly to use this I had to boot up the computer.
The better way, but it did take a long time with a few thousand records was to log all into Discogs and use the random select feature. This works great and also allows me to keep better track of what I have and also what I want. Only problem is I need to have my Ipad around as the random feature does not seem to work off my iPhone.
The primitive way is that I cut a long stick of wood (or you could use a yard stick) I numbered the stick into six equal sections. I have a piece of metal with a point that can slide up and down the stick. I have five bookcases and each book case has six shelves. To select the record I will play I roll a die 3 times. Once to pick the section of the stick (anywhere in the numbered section is fine). Once to pick the bookcase (I ignore the six if it comes up and reroll) The third time picks the shelf.
I place the stick with the right end flush with the wall of the bookcase and pick the record that lines up with the metal pointer on the stick.
One other rule is that if I "really" don't want to play the random record I have to play one of my new(used) records that I have not yet cataloged
It is fun to do it this way as I get to hear a bunch of stuff I would likely skip.
Of all these Discogs is the best but does take a ton of time to set up.
Do you use something similar I am curious.
Follow Ups:
My records are stored in the bedroom, and when my young son goes to sleep I usually pull a few records from the shelves in the dark. Relatively random though I do know how they are sorted in general.
Dave
Ah, yes ... the ol' "Pull 'Em Off The Shelf In a Dark Room" ploy! I know it well.
When I was a teenager (early '70s), I'd do the same thing -- and carried it one step further. We had the standard bigbox Magnavox in the living room. My dad had run a headphone lead from it, under the floor, to the head of my bed, where, yep, my trusty Magnavox headphones were kept on the bed post. My parents went to bed at 9:00. [CAUTION: For the more sensitive vinyl fans, the next sentence may be a "Trigger."] Around 10:00, I'd turn off the lights, select 2 or 3 LPs using your method, then tiptoe into the living room, where I'd stack them on the TT -- jackets and labels unseen -- and fire it up. Then I'd quickly tiptoe back to my bed and snuggle in for some Mystery Music.
Regardles of methodology used, I heartily endorse a little random access listening.
-=- Charlie F.
Uh, not being so technically proficient, I just assess my mood and select the record that fits...
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