Sonic Boom

This place is packed with everything related to music and pop culture! I could honestly spend an entire day just browsing through it all. They have both used vinyl (prices vary but are generally reasonable) and new vinyl (a bit pricier, but that's pretty standard these days). You even get a sleeve to protect your vinyl when you purchase one, which is amazing and shows they really value their customers! The staff is always so nice and helpful, ready to assist with any questions. The basement is like a maze filled with every genre of music you can imagine, with both vinyl and CDs available. You should definitely come check it out for yourself because this place is a true gem! And don’t forget to grab some free stickers after buying your new vinyl!

Awesome store!!! I spent a fat minute in here looking at everything. So many records and really good prices too. I’m a fan!

I recently visited Sonic Boom in Toronto and unfortunately had a very disappointing experience. I purchased three records, and all of them are poorly recorded. Each record has cuts that cause the songs to skip unexpectedly, making it impossible to listen to them properly. I would like to request a refund for these defective items, as they do not meet the quality one would expect from a music store. I hope this issue can be resolved promptly.

If you love music than this place is an absolute must visit. This is quite possibly the best record store in the world, and definitely the coolest. They have everything you could imagine here that is music related. An incredible selection of vinyl, cassette,C.D. Plus posters, shirts, pins and more. There is something there for everyone!

I love this place. I have bought countless records from this store and it has never disappointed me. The staff is super friendly and prices are always pretty good. Also, this store has an amazing selection of smaller artists both in Canada and internationally. I recently ordered a vinyl online and the in-store pickup process is seamless. I have zero complaints about this store and I definitely will be buying from them again soon!

Just bought my Michael Jackson LP album today. Excellent place if you’re music lovers or even you’re not.

This record store was a really pleasant surprise. It was massive, one of the biggest I’ve seen in all honest, most of them are quiet small with limited stock. They have everything here, records that are new and used and players, cassette tapes and players, and cd’s. There is a wide selection of artists and genres, it’s well organized. There is also merchandise and shirts that are sold here. Personally I don’t like it when staff in shops come up to me or pressure me into buying things so I really appreciated that this store wasn’t like that, not a single person who worked there came up to me, I’m sure if I needed help they would’ve been more than happy to offer it but it was nice to not have that experience that is all too common in stores these days. The only negative thing I will say is that their used records from what I saw aren’t in very good shape, in fact it’s criminal the shape they are in but the asking price is fair I just wouldn’t personal buy used records here for the most part. However, I’d definitely recommend paying this shop a visit, they definitely deserve your business.

Wow. This place has everything a music lover would love. From vinyl records to CDs and players to gifts ranging from chia pets, figurines and books. All their selections are unique and hard to find anywhere else. The atmosphere is also great and they decorate the store beautifully.

This place is packed with everything related to music and pop culture! I could honestly spend an entire day just browsing through it all. They have both used vinyl (prices vary but are generally reasonable) and new vinyl (a bit pricier, but that's pretty standard these days). You even get a sleeve to protect your vinyl when you purchase one, which is amazing and shows they really value their customers! The staff is always so nice and helpful, ready to assist with any questions. The basement is like a maze filled with every genre of music you can imagine, with both vinyl and CDs available. You should definitely come check it out for yourself because this place is a true gem! And don’t forget to grab some free stickers after buying your new vinyl!

Awesome store!!! I spent a fat minute in here looking at everything. So many records and really good prices too. I’m a fan!

I recently visited Sonic Boom in Toronto and unfortunately had a very disappointing experience. I purchased three records, and all of them are poorly recorded. Each record has cuts that cause the songs to skip unexpectedly, making it impossible to listen to them properly. I would like to request a refund for these defective items, as they do not meet the quality one would expect from a music store. I hope this issue can be resolved promptly.

If you love music than this place is an absolute must visit. This is quite possibly the best record store in the world, and definitely the coolest. They have everything you could imagine here that is music related. An incredible selection of vinyl, cassette,C.D. Plus posters, shirts, pins and more. There is something there for everyone!

I love this place. I have bought countless records from this store and it has never disappointed me. The staff is super friendly and prices are always pretty good. Also, this store has an amazing selection of smaller artists both in Canada and internationally. I recently ordered a vinyl online and the in-store pickup process is seamless. I have zero complaints about this store and I definitely will be buying from them again soon!

Just bought my Michael Jackson LP album today. Excellent place if you’re music lovers or even you’re not.

This record store was a really pleasant surprise. It was massive, one of the biggest I’ve seen in all honest, most of them are quiet small with limited stock. They have everything here, records that are new and used and players, cassette tapes and players, and cd’s. There is a wide selection of artists and genres, it’s well organized. There is also merchandise and shirts that are sold here. Personally I don’t like it when staff in shops come up to me or pressure me into buying things so I really appreciated that this store wasn’t like that, not a single person who worked there came up to me, I’m sure if I needed help they would’ve been more than happy to offer it but it was nice to not have that experience that is all too common in stores these days. The only negative thing I will say is that their used records from what I saw aren’t in very good shape, in fact it’s criminal the shape they are in but the asking price is fair I just wouldn’t personal buy used records here for the most part. However, I’d definitely recommend paying this shop a visit, they definitely deserve your business.

Wow. This place has everything a music lover would love. From vinyl records to CDs and players to gifts ranging from chia pets, figurines and books. All their selections are unique and hard to find anywhere else. The atmosphere is also great and they decorate the store beautifully.

Possibly the fanciest, spacious, and tidiest record store in Toronto. Store is well-designed and you can find something to your taste, no matter your music genre preferences. If you are into CD's, cassettes, and their respective players, they have them too! I picked up a new copy of the Cult of the Lamb vinyl here, which I've never seen anywhere else. Also picked up the Beatle's Magical Mystery Tour vinyl - solid track list. The staff is not as friendly as other record stores and there are a lot of unwelcoming "you're on camera" type signs literally everywhere, which really threw off the vibe of the store (I mean is this necessary?). However, the vinyl selection is great and reasonably priced, and I appreciate that they grade the used vinyls for quality as well.

My friend and I popped in here while walking around Toronto on a Sunday afternoon. What a great find! Tons of records, CDs, and Knick-knacks. There was someone setting up for a DJ set when we were there. We didn't stay for it, but it seemed like a cool space to see live music.

Sonic Boom is an incredible music store with a fantastic selection of vinyl records, CDs, and memorabilia. The layout makes it easy to browse for both new releases and vintage gems. What truly sets this place apart is the friendly and knowledgeable staff. They're passionate about music and always ready to help, whether you're a seasoned collector or just starting out. With its welcoming atmosphere, Sonic Boom is a must-visit for any music fan!

Sonic boom is exactly what you would expect it to be. It is a record store, full of records. The days of one and two dollar records are behind us, but if you are looking for a specific album you are likely to find it here. However, like all niche locations they have had to diversify their offerings. If you are looking for some eclectic action figures based off of your favorite bands, or pop cultural oddities, you can find them here. They also have a wide array of different candies, and all sorts of other products in the greater music nerd sphere.

Last Sunday I made my 3rd visit to Sonic Boom, which is located on the east side of Spadina Avenue, south of Dundas St. W. The store consists of two levels; the first level you walk into from the street contains displays of new vinyl, new vinyl releases against the wall on the right and a large inventory of 'music swag' for sale, i.e. t-shirts. You walk downstairs at the rear to the much larger lower level which mainly contains music in different formats, i.e. vinyl, CD, and DVD. With the tremendous vinyl resurgence in recent years, a large part of the very spacious store is dedicated to the format, although with vinyl records being so popular/in demand these days, the prices for new (still sealed) records are quite high. Fortunately the same new titles on CD are generally priced significantly lower. The different formats are divided up by genre: rock, jazz, metal, etc., and new and used titles are kept together in the racks. The sales stickers on each item for sale are colour coded to help customers differentiate between the two: a white sticker for a new item, a yellow sticker for a used item. I plan to return to buy several titles on CD; as I previously mentioned, their CD prices are comparatively reasonable.

A heaven for folks who love records! For the rest of us, it's still fascinating to see the huge collection of all things music and beyond. Its definitely a fantastic throwback to see walkman and tapes. We didn't realize how big this place was until we walked down the stairs to find even more sprawling collection of records, collectibles etc. The neon signs and the cool signboards all over the store made feel like it's a music museum. There are tons of people which is pretty impressive. Here's another reason why Toronto is such a cool city!

Sonic Boom is Canada's largest independent record store with over 25,000 titles to sort through. They buy and sell vinyl records, CDs, and 45s. My favourite part is not only digging through all the records, but checking out their extensive retro T-shirt selection. There's always a classic find there. Sonic Boom also sells books, turntables and accessories and lots of toronto themed chotchke's. Make sure to give yourself plenty of time when stopping by. There's so much to look at, and you'll always find something fun to buy. Tip: if you're driving, there are 2 public parking lots very close to the shop. One is located north of of on Sullivan Street and the other is an underground "Green P" lot located on the east side of Spadina Ave, just south of Dundas. No matter how you get there, you won't be disappointed!

Beautiful location on Spadina. Smart move. Vinyl folks enjoy it more than I do. I don't care if vinyl sounds better; I like Apple Music. The store is two levels and good T-shirt collection. Where else can you get a HALL AND OATES T-shirt!?

Nice selection of albums, cds, and merchandise. Deep collection of new and quality used music. Two levels. Very friendly and helpful staff. Not for bargain hunting but high quality. Husband found an album he'd been looking for.

Wow! It has been a while since I have been in a legitimate record store... and one that is as wonderful as this! So thankful for the quick walk that took me past this area. If you love Vinyl, this is your place! The old school records with a new school feel! Wonderful cards and gifts to boot! A for sure stop! Please enjoy the ambiance and wonderful staff! There truly is something for everyone here!

The best vinyl shop in Toronto. HUGE selection. Great mix of new and used vinyl. I have found some amazing pieces at Sonic Boom over the years. If you're visiting the city and not sure which vinyl shop to start at. This is the one.

This is a place that I usually don't go by myself but my husband loves it. It's a great place to find classic stuff like Vinyl Records, DVD/Bluray, CD's, Books and cool T-shirts. It's huge, clean and full of amazing stuff. There are many small record shops in Toronto but nothing as huge as this one! I don't know much about music but it was fun to hang out here sometime. This time, I've got to choose our favourites T-Shirts! lol, I picked one for me and one for my husband. He also got another one for himself too. Each T-shirt is around $30 but the used ones are around $20. Is it expensive? They're Band T-shirts though. If you're going to a rock bar and don't know what to wear, come to check it out here! There might be an answer for you ^^. *This vote is based on my husband and me. *

This is one of those staple shops you see along Spadina that will always beckon you to get closer and go inside to browse. This store is huge and honestly, you can spend hours just looking through all the vinyls, dvds and cds for sale. Besides music, the store sells their own merchandise and pretty unique books. I think the only downside I have with this place are some of the items can be overpriced. You have to be on the lookout for a good deal here but regardless of whatever you spend here it's always quality!

Other collectors I know have been avoiding this place like the plague, and now I know why. I went to pick up a record here tonight. I'd ordered it earlier today, and I knew it might not be ready, but I thought I'd stop and check, because I was in the neighbourhood. I gave the dude the order number, and he asked if I called and arranged to pick it up "early", and I said, "No, I ordered it today," and before I could get another word out, he took my fucking head off: "THAT'S NOT THE QUESTION I ASKED YOU." I thought about retaliating, but then I thought, What's the use? The guy's a dick. Sonic Boom was my local record shop, and I spent a ton of cash here yearly. I'm not going back, and I encourage everyone else who collects records to go elsewhere, too. Big Shiny, Kops, Pop Music and Neurotica all have better service and great selections. I don't know what's going on with the service at Sonic Boom but it's really taken a nose dive. Other stores are improving their service because they know times are tough, and people can go anywhere they want. Seems to be the opposite at this place. Good riddance.

I love independent record stores. I stopped by here to look around. I really like it here. The place was setup well to allow for safe browsing during covid. They have a good selection, and I found a number of interesting things. I was looking for this weird russian vinyl thing and wasn't sure where to look. The person was able to locate the exact vinyl I wanted without trouble, he was super helpful. This is definitely one of the better record stores in Toronto, I highly recommend it.

Very popular, almost iconic store in Toronto selling new and used CDs, vinyl and DVDs, along with other music/popular culture items. The selection is vast, including some hard to find CDs and box sets. Something that particularly attracts me as a collector. I've not found the staff to be particularly friendly, or welcoming, but as someone that likes to browse uninterrupted, that's not such a bad thing. A bit more showing of appreciation at the cash register wouldn't go amiss, but it's not enough to deter me from frequenting the store whenever I'm in the neighbourhood.

I have loved every iteration of this storefront, and Sonic Boom is no different. The bones of the building are so gorgeous that anything inside, will shine. On a recent trip, I was inspired to review Sonic Boom and their gift selection which boasts pretty impressive piece of real estate within the stores. Sonic Boom seems to have gotten a message that diversity in offerings is best, and I can't say that I am complaining! There have a giant selection of music in almost every format while also curating a stellar collection of greet cards, candles and gift sets that range from beer-at-home brew kits to a range of spa-like products. I walked away with bunch of gifts and though it added up quickly, the price was pretty right for each item. I picked up a jade roller, two box sets of tapered candles, four greeting cards with various messages and a steam facial kit. What I expected when I walked in? No. Am I happy? Very much yes.

Lots of new records, which is fine, but I can get them anywhere so not much appeal for me. Very little to find in the used bins outside of common stuff. There were a couple of records I might have bought had the prices and condition been better, but nothing I absolutely needed. Another funny thing about this shop is that it's the only record store I've been to anywhere that had a security guard. I guess shoplifting is a problem there.

We would like to write a good review for this shop but unfortunately, we cannot do this. It is really a big record shop with a big choice. We found and bought here about ten records. It was rather difficult to find what we wanted due to the randomly placed alphabet and no help from the staff. They have to learn how to keep order and how to respect customers in "Rotate This" shop at 186, Ossington Street or in " Kops Records" a Queen Street. Cannot say we spent not enough money to be treated like desired clients. On contrary, we faced disrespect, arrogance, and neglect and got a bitter aftertaste after visiting this shop. The shop general manager Christopher was rather rude and disrespectful. What was very surprising. You have to be careful when buying records in Sonic Boom shop because you can never exchange the item here even if you see scratches on the surface of the record. You will get no excuse ..Receipt says: " Exchange accepted for used and sealed new items with a receipt within 7 days." But do not believe this.!

Freakin' AMAZING. That's all you need to know when considering whether or not you should go here. Whether you are a vinyl person or not, there is something for you at this store. I never visited the old location, but I can't see it beating this one. Like music? (Who doesn't) There's enough vinyl to stock an entire jukebox here! Don't buy your tunes on vinyl? They have tons of used CD's in brand new condition, for cheap (about $5 a CD). Like to get your music on iTunes but still like to show your support for your favorite bands? They have a good selection of band t-shirts. If you want that 'Live' experience but missed your band when they last played the Molson Amphitheater? They have concert DVD's! If you're just starting out, they have stacks, STACKS, of new record players at fair prices, benches to sit on to relax, soda and coffee to drink, headphones, everything you could ever want in life!!! Go.....NOW!!!

I had been to Sonic Boom once before in 2010 and was so impressed, I thought it was one of the greatest record stores I have ever been in.. Naturally I was on tour then, and was living in a van on 10 dollars a day, and couldn't afford to be taking my fare share of records back to the states! Take 2, work trip brought me back to Canada 8 years later, and I made it a point that I needed to get back to Sonic Boom! I dragged a co worker through the underground mall and on the city streets to this musical mecca! I found a Labi Siffre record I have been searching for, for years and I enjoyed checking out all the cool posters of bands who have done In-stores over the years like SLOAN! I also dug through the rarities records and found a GBV, "Devil Between My Toes," for only 300 bucks... I didn't take that one home with me but I did find a Christmas Present for my pops and did bring Labi home with me! This store is perfect.. Amazing selection, well organized, friendly staff, fun nick-nacks and toys, magazines, posters, great t-shirts, killer film section, and all the records a boy could dream about owning! SONIC BOOM could be and Explosion to your bank account if you are not careful!

It's been almost close to two years since I've shopped at this place, but holy shit, it's slowly turning into the Honest Ed's of physical retail media. During my most recent visit, I planned to have a look at their blu-ray/dvd section (which I found in the past had been a great place to look for rare/collectable new and used product), located in their basement, under the stairs. When I arrived, to my astonishment, the entire section had been overrun with CD's. When I asked the token, under-the-stairs-tatted-twenty-something clerk, "Where is your film collection?", she responded by saying that their CD library had been extended into the film department, and that any blu-rays and dvd's could be found on a pathetic looking bookshelf. When I questioned her as to the turnover rate of CD's vs. blu-ray/dvd I was informed that there was INDEED a higher turnover rate of CD's. Have I stepped into a fuckin' time warp? Unless their CD's are HD re-issues, or special editions or out of print editions, THAT would indeed be high turnover. Unless your product is reflecting these criteria, there is something called online media, where any old edition of a recording can be found, minus the plastic. The fact that they've practically removed any semblance of a film collection, goes to show how much they don't care about film. This place, as far as I'm concerned, is pretty much focused on a demographic. It's downtown hipsters ready to spend their big bucks to pick up too-cool-for-school vinyl...... No thanks!!!

Nice store, RUDE employees. I was looking at a record player, and an employee walks up to me. I had pressed the play button because it was displayed out of the box with headphones attached: so I thought it was a sample. I guess it wasn't. Instead of helping me, the man castigated me. He asked, "Do you know how to use a record?" I said, "No." He said, "THEN DON'T TOUCH IT." I was curious about the item. I'd wanted to learn more. Why put a record player out of the box, and in front of the customer, if it's not for display? Come for good ambience, but you probably won't buy anything because of the customer service.

Solid record store that has a variety of other stuff as well. Considering how much they carry, things are nicely organized.

This store is massive and they have a ton of new and used records. They often have rarities, and have good selections of country, blues, punk, and heavy metal, as well as vinyl soundtracks. Sometimes I can kill 2 hours in this store. They were asking about $30-40 for a phony Danzig 777 I Luciferi as well as a Thrall-Demonsweatlive vinyl EP which were both as legit as a three dollar bill. I have since seen these 2 records disappear from the shelf but I hope a sucker didn't actually buy those. In Sonic Boom's defense I know HMV used to also carry counterfeit vinyl and CDs and obviously not everything from the distributors can be inspected before ordering by catalog number. Other than those 2 instances I haven't seen any horseshittery at Sonic Boom at all. I hope Sonic Boom thrives, but some of the staff aren't too knowledgeable about certain types of popular music. One time the guy at the counter had a hard time inputing data into the register when he couldn't figure out if Blondie was the album title or a person/band. I guess he was subtracting the inventory at the POS but how do you not know who the fuck Blondie is? Find almost anything from Amy Winehouse to ZZ Top at this store. One time I went in just for some plastic outer sleeves (purchasable as singles or by the dozen) and before I know it I am browsing around and my arms are full of a slab of records consisting of Dayglo Abortions, Howlin' Wolf, X, Metric, The Spoons, Slade, Venom, ABBA, Concrete Blonde, 2 Live Crew, and Maiden's 2nd album. It was quite a schizophrenic mix of nothing but goodness. At that point I felt it was best to just leave. The store also sells record players, novelties, and misc items such as miniature chrome-plated karaoke microphones with a patch cord connection. Free stickers and sometimes buttons at the cashier. Spadina has turned into a toilet bowl chock full of degenerates and scum but you guys have brightened it up a little bit more since you had moved to the avenue, thanks Sonic Boom! May all yuppies and hipsters live happily ever after at the bottom of the deepest and saltiest ocean. All fads shall come to an end soon or later but I hope this store will continue to thrive for generations to come.

I had such a good time browsing this store for at least an hour. It seemed like it would be overwhelming when I walked in, but it only took me about 30 seconds to clearly see and understand all their organization and different sections. The signage was all very clear, good and sensical. The first thing I looked for was the same first thing I ALWAYS look for when I go to a record store, which is a specific obscure album I've been wanting for years. To my extreme surprise, I actually found it! And for only $4! Wow! After that, almost everything that popped into my head to look for, I found. It was absolutely unbelievable. The employees never spoke to me when I was browsing, which I personally like. I could clearly see employees accessible and available all over the place if I had any questions, so that was good enough for me. I think I did get trailed by an employee who might have been suspicious of me potentially shoplifting for a couple minutes, but it wasn't too bad and he backed off after a bit. I saw pricetags from $1 into the high hundreds, but from my experience as a collector (and the modern marvels of being able to price check things on my phone), the prices seemed fair. The brand new records were maybe $5 more expensive than online, but probably on par or even cheaper if you factor having to pay shipping. As for the used albums, their prices varied by album condition, edition, etc. One thing I really appreciated was that they put out some cheaper and more expensive versions of the same albums when they had them. For instance, you would be presented with options to buy a slightly damaged one for $5, a good condition used one for maybe $10, a brand new sealed one for $20, or anything in between. I know some stores won't even put their cheaper copies on the shelf until the higher priced ones have sold, in order to pressure people into buying those first. So that was cool. Overall, I was very happy with my experience and my purchases, and have already recommended it to some of my friends who are going to be in the city soon.

Sonic Boom has a lot of potential, nice looking spacious music wonder world, if it would only offer you more for your decent used CD's. They will offer you around .25 cents to $1.75 for your used CD's Customer service is non-existent here, no eye contact, lots of attitude from sloppy dressed/groomed employees who should consider a shave, maybe wear some nicer clothing and be more enthusiastic.

Friendly and helpful staff. Reasonable prices! Have found many gems at Sonic Boom.

Came to sonic boom on the recommendation of other yelpers who love vinyl as much as I do. This place is pretty funky looking with an huge downstairs full of vinyl, cds and dvds. I was amazed by the amount of vinyl, until I realized that most of it is either a) re-issues or b) new vinyl. Barely any used vinyl at all! At least of known artists. I only came out with 1 Lp and 1 cd because honestly the prices were a little crazy even for some of the used vinyl. I understand the more antique an album is the more you charge, but $175 for 1 beatles album that has 10 identical ones behind it on the shelf? Please. If your looking for new expensive vinyl your at the right place. As for the used vinyl, there is a turntable you can tests out your finds on but like I said, it's like going on a treasure hunt. I came out with one of my fav artists so I wasn't entirely disappointed but would probably only come in once or twice a year.

Rude and ignorant staff. The girl at the buying buying desk was incompetent and uneducated as to what the records are worth. Stay away from this store. Better record shops in Toronto

I dropped in at Sonic Boom the other day to do a little browsing since I was next door having a coffee at Dark Horse Espresso (previously reviewed). Admittedly, I don't buy many records anymore these days, but I do still keep my eyes open for the few pieces that I am still looking for, and this is probably one of the better places remaining. The store is very large, with some records and a lot of other stuff upstairs, and then a huge basement filled with new and used records as well as cd's and dvd's. I don't recall ever asking for assistance, but there are always staff around helping other people, and they seem to know their stock fairly well. The main floor, has other music related items, such as books and an assortment of turntables; there is also a clearance section with decent copies of used records for $3.49 up to about $10. The lower level has lots of new records at the usual prices, and lots of used items priced from $4.99 and up. There are also racks of cd's and a backroom of dvd movies and tv shows, but I am not sure what the prices are like, probably reasonable though. I think they also have a section of rock t-shirts downstairs. I didn't find the specific album that I thought they had recently, but I did pick-up a few from the clearance bins. Overall, probably the best selection remaining in Toronto, and everything seems to be in good condition.

Went on 1 of the busiest days of the year!! To say the least, it was crazy packed and really busy! We lined up (line was around the corner) before they opened, yet once opened it moved incredibly fast! Very organized place with friendly and very knowledgeable staff. They were incredibly organized for this event, which made it a beautiful experience. Will definitely be back!

visited the new location finally, a shell of its former self, as the one on bathurst was fairly bigger, having said that, the selection of the New location is fasinating. a split level store with all sorts of goodies and nick nacks on the street level store, followed by all of the records, cd's and dvds in the basement. a few huge differences bewteen this store and the previous location. this location is damn near spotless, the staff are super friendly, and they have a live dj? (all the times i went to the previous location they only had a radio on?) i also noticed the pricing was considerably lower at this location, sometimes by at least five bucks or so, which is amazing come check out canada's largest independent record store \m/!

Sonic Boom is a Toronto staple for all things music, movies, and entertainment. When you first walk into the store it can be a little overwhelming due to the sheer size of the place. Upstairs is a variety of records, signs, socks, books, and a ton of other random things you will probably end up spending money on. When you go down the stairs however it is where this store grabs you and keeps you for at least an hour. This floor is filled with thousands of records, cassettes, DVDs, blu rays, t-shirts, and even some more random stuff to go through. My friends were stoked to look around this place and even more excited by the selection they were presented with. This is one of my favourite places in Toronto to kill time and pick up records.

Sonic Boom is the biggest name in the underground music business. As big chains slowly die a slow death (HMV, e.g.) up pops a larger and swankier little business with no signs of slowing down. Hosting some impressive names in live music at their old location on Bathurst, Sonic Boom now has a cavernous home in the spacious spot in old chinatown next to Dark Horse on Spadina. With plenty of room on the main floor to browse the not-so-dusty bins of vinyl and check out the vintage electronics stacked artfully in the front windows this spot has never looked so purposeful and attractive. The dungeon-like basement has been spruced up with fancy new flooring and wall-to-wall bins of rekkids. With their grand opening just last weekend, go and smell that new LP smell as soon as you can!

It's a pretty busy store. I went there on Friday afternoon and there were quite a few people there, which made it a bit hard to move. However, the selection is great and is totally worth it. There were some bands that are on the obscure side that I was looking for but could not find, but otherwise the selection was expansive. I would have liked to have more second hand, cheap records available for the more popular artists but otherwise the prices were reasonable for most records. They also have cassettes and CDs which I will be browsing in the future. The only caveat is that not many employees were available to help you because the store is rather busy.

I like the location but this place is totally overpriced and the Customer Service SUCKS!!!! I feel is that not up to par. The guys at the cashier especially!! I feel like they're doing you a favor and are not Very Friendly at all!!!! They don't smile theirs no eye contact in fact I was waiting a few mins at the cash register while this young dude put stuff away. So annoying and didn't even look up. How rude! I asked when a product would be in and no one knows or even cares. How come no one smiles???? I feel little bit uncomfortable at times when I'm in there. Not like other record stores I've been in around the world when you walk in your chilled you're relaxed it's a good vibe don't feel that at this place at all! I go for the used selection now cause I don't want to spend my $ there being its so over priced. My advice if is if your job is customer service then do your job. There's a lot of other record stores I could spend my $ in. Not just yours.....We'll see how long they last. Can someone in their crack a smile please. Not a good vibe. Won't be back.

There were a lot more new records than old, and the prices on them were higher than I'd ever pay for something new, so I passed on a lot of what I saw downstairs. The new arrivals section upstairs was great, though! Thank you to the tall guy with glasses and dark hair; I found a Motown compilation that I can't wait to play when I get home! It had only come in the day before I did, so I feel especially lucky. There were several records I haven't seen anywhere else, including a couple of promotional records originally marked "not for sale". Gems like that are amazing to find because you get to touch and see something rare and historically valuable. I'm planning on returning before I leave Toronto so I can check out another batch of new arrivals.

Terrible customer service: no eye contact, no smiles, no friendly banter. Instead, it feels like a very unfriendly environment to walk through. The employees seem to exhibit negative, judgmental, attitudes - almost to the point of being hostile. Looking for records - discovering new finds - should be fun for a customer; it's supposed to be part of the overall experience. Working in a record store should be fun as well; so, drop the dismissive, gloomy, attitude and try to smile once in a while.

During my 20s I spent a considerable amount of free time browsing in record stores. It's been a decade since I have been in a real record store because I now buy most of my music online. So I was eager to visit this much heralded establishment. The 20 something sales clerks really knew nothing about the musicians and different music styles we inquired about. They could not even find them on Google. And they gave the impression that they did not really care.When the store eventually closes you will know one of the main reasons why

If you're looking for a massive record store to drop a bunch of money at... Sonic Boom is your place. It's difficult to argue with the fact that Sonic boom has a GIGANTIC collection of vinyl and whatever you're looking for, you'll likely find it here. Despite the fact that this place probably has the most extensive collection of Vinyl in all of Toronto, there are a few bummers to this place. 1. A good chunk of the stuff that is here is reissues. Sure, they'll have Pet Sounds, Rubber Soul, Meat is Murder, whatever... but it's going to be a reissue. Good luck trying to find older copies of anything popular here. If you do, it'll be overpriced and... speaking of which. 2. It's expensive. Sonic Boom is expensive. There's no other way around it. The titles here are expensive- overpriced. You can get the same exact titles elsewhere. 3.The location. At least for me, it's not near anything else cool. It's a bit of a haul. 4. The staff. I didn't find them friendly or helpful. 5. The used selection is paltry. They definitely have used titles but it's just not good. The stuff that is used is not really stuff that a lot of people want in their collection. Even though Sonic Boom does have it's shortcomings, it's still a place you should check out. You'll find something want here. They also have DVD's and fun trinkets too.

This is the ultimate music store even if the CD you want is not in stock. This is the only store that sells a wide range of music, plus records, instruments, tapes, record players, candy, soda, barbeque sauce, etc . They have comfortable furniture and the manager is very nice. The staff are always working hard to sort out the items. I can't go as often because I have a very tiring exercise and nutrition plan, but sonic boom is the best. I highly recommend this store.

Immediately upon entering this store I was captivated by the decor and tasteful selection of record players displayed on the wall. After exploring the plethora of table books and quirky pins, I ventured to the bottom floor. This floor contains a wide variety of new and used vinyl records, CDs, cassettes, and DVDs. The selection is huge but no overwhelming. There is also a great selection of clothing such as quirky shirts and canvas bags. Can't forget to mention the awesome socks displayed as well. Usually stores like this are grungy and dirty. This store was Extremely clean and had a welcoming atmosphere that you would find in an Urban Outfitters.

Great selection, Prices not so great. 180G Pressings are all the rage now, so if you're into that whole "schtick", this is the place for you. I can't justify paying $70 for Nirvana's "In Utero", or even $35 for Depeche Mode's "Violator". It's the whole CD pricing ~thing~ all over again. You can find some reasonably priced good stuff here, but I'd treat Sonic Boom as a very last, last, last resort if you're desperate for what's not in wide circulation at other shops (ie. The Cramps, The Cure, New Order, Joy Division, The Smiths, Morrissey).

Very amazing store with fabulous selection. Often very low prices and quality merchandise. I found a lot of very good items from PAUL MCCARTNEY, MELISSA ETHERIDGE, MADONNA, INDIGO GIRLS. They also sell very good sodas and funky snack items. I found amazing deals and there is always something on sale.

Sonic Boom has been my go-to record shop-stop since 2002 (first purchase: Patrice Rushen's "Straight From the Heart")! As a devoted customer, I never had, nor experienced, any issues with this shop. I have always been pleased with their well-stocked and well organized inventory, both new and used. A significant appeal of this shop is not just the expansive selection of new and used Vinyl, CD,s cassettes, 8-Tracks, DVDs, Books, Apparel, nostalgic candy, etc., but also their daily, used NEW ARRIVALS, which is one of the first things you stumble upon when you first enter the shop. Couple all this with their wonderfully friendly staff, who are there to help if you ask, you have a music shop that is worthy of repeated visits! Highly recommended!

Stood in at the cash waiting to check out and the cashier was having a lengthy conversation with the person in front of me. I literally stood there for almost 10 minuets while this conversation went on and on. They were talking about nothing, I was going to tell them that they should consider getting a room.... Terrible customer service, almost felt like leaving the store without checking out at the cash.

It was so much better before, greater selection, cooler displays, etc.. They added more knick knacks and random objects, which I don't mind as some of them are cool. They just don't have the variety they used to have. The prices are what you would expect from a vinyl storefront. I remember going before and being excited to see what was in the new arrivals section or to check out the misc section of a certain genre. Now there are very little offbeat titles. I have found it to be more mainstream. The underground releases are nowhere near as abundant as they used to be, especially in the CD sections. The prices are also a bit higher than they used to be. But like everything else in this life, things will change.

I visited Sonic Boom Saturday, August 1th - around 2:30 PM and was quite disappointed in the customer service I received at your CD/DVD buying desk. I have been coming to Sonic Boom for many years and visited all three of your locations - Bloor, Bathurst & Spadina - over the years. I had 2 CDs - Motorhead & Koko Taylor - and a 2 DVD Set of Minority Report. I talked to slim young man. He took each item, looked at it and also typed on his keyboard; I assumed he was looking at some website to check out the value of each item. He came back to me and said all of them were scuffed so you guys could not buy them. If that was the case, then why did he get on the computer? I looked at my CDs and DVDs before and after I visited your store and the Koko Taylor one was the only one that had any marks on it, I had bought it used; the other CD and DVDs, I had bought new and they were free of scuff marks. If all were scuffed then why go on the computer? When it comes to customer service, I like employees to be polite and I want to be told the truth - this is where the problem lies. Proper reasons, I believe, for refusing to buy a CD or DVD are: they are not popular, not worth much money or you have too many of them already. I wasn't told any of those things which was very disappointing for me. How can I bring any more items to you guys and believe what is said to me after this episode? At least the person I talked to at the checkout was very nice. Chris.