[JohnTruels]

Black Swan Records made Jeffrey Cobb's Top 10 Record Stores for 2006 list a few days ago. I exchanged a few emails with Cobb, starting out with the bad news that Black Swan's been out of business for about three years. BS made the list based on Cobb's visit to the store on a trip to Vancouver some years ago and he checked their web site to confirm the store still existed. Well, the web site exists but the store doesn't.

Jeffrey invited my suggestions for stores he could check out on his next trip here. I can't help because I haven't been to a record store in years. So what do you recommend?

Two lists would probably be useful. As this is, after all, a jazz site, what's the best store for jazz? And what is the best store in general? Tell us why, too.

After Black Swan's closing I would have nominated A&B Sound as best for decent selection (only "decent") but best prices. But I haven't been there since they changed owners. The other plus at A&B was the non-pop section manager Bob Bell for his knowledgeable assistance. That's an important factor in my book.

[Amomiamup]

I was at A&B just before Christmas and was shocked at how few CDs and DVDs there were compared to years past. And the place was empty. That time of year was always bustling in there, but not now. For shame.

[cajonnmu]

I know they aren't CD's, but HMV (formally Virgin records) has a good DVD collection. The thing I like is that all the jazz DVD's are seperated so you don' have to sift through racks of rock/pop/rap ones.

I can't give them my vote for selection or price, but for customer service, Magic Flute is a good place to go.

[allvideO]

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I like Addagio on Main St.(new stuff) and Audiopile on Commercial (used stuff).