Going back before and after the strongest passage
On the first listen, identify what draws you in: the impact, a continuous bass, repetition or several sounds entering together. Next time, follow the structure. What changed before that passage? What allows the track to pick up again afterwards?
A very short preview does not answer these questions well. If possible, find a longer stream offered by the label or artist. You can decide whether the track interests you over time, beyond the moment chosen for the preview.
Comparing with hardtek
Neighbouring sections are useful for searching, but their names do not tell you everything about a record. Compare the relationship between kick and bass, the percussion’s movement, effects and breaks. None of these elements alone provides a complete definition.
If you come from hardtek, compare your favourites with records you own. Do the same if your crate mainly contains techno. You will hear what the new release adds: a different progression, another texture, a particular role for the percussion.
Listening to what happens in the low end
Keep the volume similar between previews. Follow the low end: does it stay the same, evolve with the other sounds, leave room for percussion or a melody? Your listening system matters too. A small speaker reveals little about some bass sounds.
For mixing, imagine the two records together. Where could you take out some bass? Which passage would call for a short transition? This check can be more useful than remembering only the track’s densest moment.
Looking for records that serve different purposes
First keep the release that suits what you want right now. Compare it with a more stripped-back track and another that brings a distinct sound: metallic percussion, a melody or a particular atmosphere, according to what you actually hear.
Listen through the rest of the EP too. Another side may offer the passage you need to connect two records. If you mostly listen at home, simply ask whether these tracks make you want to let the whole side play.
Checking the version on offer
Look at the format, number of records and track versions. Read any repress, colour or sleeve information, and the condition of used copies. If you found the title in a mix, check that the name matches that version.
The Techno, Hardtechno and Trance section brings together several musical families. Open product pages and listen before choosing. When confirming a purchase, rely on the price and stock shown on the current page, with the exact reference of the record you want.
Listen to the records
Teknoboutik product pages bring together available previews, edition details, prices and stock.
Explore techno and hard techno vinylContinue on the Teknoboutik shop.