FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

Shipping

How long does shipping take?
Most orders ship within 1–2 business days. Standard delivery is typically 3–7 business days depending on your location. Expedited options are available at checkout.

Do you ship outside the United States?
Not yet. Sonic Temple currently ships within the contiguous US only. International shipping is on the roadmap.

How is vinyl packed?
Records ship in rigid mailers or double-walled boxes depending on order size. I take packing seriously — damaged vinyl is a waste of everyone's time.

Returns

What's the return policy?
New, sealed items can be returned within 30 days of delivery. Open items can be returned within 30 days if they're in the same condition as received — no marks, no damage, original packaging. Contact me before sending anything back.

What if something arrives damaged?
Document it with photos before opening the outer packaging, then email me. I'll make it right.

Used vinyl

How do you grade used records?
I use Goldmine grading standards. VG+ means it plays cleanly with minimal surface noise. VG means light background noise that's audible between tracks. G+ means playable but noticeably worn. Any used record with significant defects is noted in the listing. If you have a question about a specific record's condition, ask before buying.

Are used records cleaned before sale?
Yes. Every used record goes through a cleaning pass before it's listed. You might want to clean it again yourself — that's personal preference — but it won't arrive with visible grime.

Gear

Can you help me pick the right turntable, headphones, or amp?
Yes. Email me with your setup, your budget, and what you're listening to. I've spent 25 years in professional audio and I'd rather help you get it right than sell you something that doesn't fit.

Do you offer setup support for turntables?
I can walk you through cartridge alignment, tracking force, and anti-skate over email. For anything that needs hands-on attention, you're better served by a local dealer or an audio technician.

The listening room

What is the listening room?
Sonic Temple is working toward a physical space in Livingston, Montana — a place to sit down and hear gear before buying it. It's pre-launch as of 2026. When it opens, you'll know.