Updated
Updated · Elite Traveler · Sep 6
US Vinyl Tops $1 Billion as CD Revenue Jumps 58.6% in H1 2026
Updated
Updated · Elite Traveler · Sep 6

US Vinyl Tops $1 Billion as CD Revenue Jumps 58.6% in H1 2026

3 articles · Updated · Elite Traveler · Sep 6

Summary

  • $1 billion in US vinyl sales in 2025 marked the format’s 19th straight year of growth, extending a broader rebound in analogue media.
  • H1 2026 data showed CD revenue climbing 58.6% year on year to more than $171 million, while vinyl revenue rose nearly 18% to $543.8 million and other physical formats, including cassettes, gained almost 45%.
  • Psychotherapist Eloise Skinner said the shift reflects fatigue with rapid technological change, with analogue devices offering stability, tactile engagement and a break from screens.
  • Luxury brands are turning that demand into higher-end experiences, adding vinyl listening rooms and redesigning retro-inspired products such as record players, instant cameras and digital music devices.

Insights

Why are millions of Gen Z fans buying CDs when nearly half of them do not even own a player?
Are heavily merchandised CDs a brilliant business model, or just a clever way to sell unplayable plastic to superfans?