jan,

i like shopping in independent record stores because i still like the personal touch of buying cds or vinyl... i like being able to discuss music with those that own the place and i like to promote what is clearly a passion for the owners first and foremost and not just a way of making money... i like finding rare gems on spec that wouldn't be stocked by mainstream stores...

...my choice is road records... to this end, i will spend more money buying a cd in road when i know i can get it cheaper elsewhere... some people find this mad... in truth, it has fewer good intentions than it sounds... it is mainly because i have enough disposable income to not care about an extra euro or two and it means less than availability... lack of availability (and my lack of patience) is the reason i often shop away from road, not cost...

n.b. i am a big fan of buying direct from independent labels also

Jan, when I was still living in Dublin I shopped a lot for second-hand CDs: good quality and cheap prices in places like Spindizzy in the Georges' St Arcade, the shop across from the TBMC/Button Factory, and Freebird Records. I liked (and still do) the idea of rooting around through all the racks and finding something special/long-sought-after. I guess it's a lifestyle choice

Anyway, good luck with your report, make sure you let everyone know when it's going on-air!