Binnenkijker: A Musical Journey with Bonhovinyl

In this edition of Binnenkijker, we sit down with Bonhovinyl, a passionate vinyl collector and owner of a highly successful Instagram page where he shares his love for records. With followers from all over the world, he inspires music lovers daily with his unique finds and special editions. Winter is the perfect time to explore Bonhovinyl’s story, as vinyl enthusiasts often spin their favorite albums the most during these cozy months. Let’s dive into his passion for vinyl and discover how music has become an integral part of his life.

How did your love for vinyl begin?

Bonhovinyl: "I was 18 when I moved into my own small apartment in the center of Leiden. While browsing a thrift store for furniture, I stumbled upon an old second-hand record player—probably an Akai. I was already listening to tons of music back then, with stacks of CDs, attending concerts, and playing in bands. The love for music and physical formats was always there. What immediately drew me to vinyl was the album artwork, the craftsmanship, and the idea of directly supporting an artist. That physical connection felt so special."

What was your very first record, and does it hold special meaning for you?

Bonhovinyl: "My very first record was a 7-inch single by a local band called Omission. They self-released it, and I bought it because I often went to their gigs. Some of the band members were friends of mine. Funny enough, I didn’t even own a record player at the time. The first record I bought after getting a turntable was probably by These Arms Are Snakes. My father had already given me some old records, but when I bought one for myself, I wanted something more extreme and unique to add to my collection."

How has your record collection evolved over the years?

Bonhovinyl: "My collection kind of mirrors my musical journey. Over the years, I’ve gone through phases of exploring specific genres—jazz, afrobeat, black metal, and lately, I’ve been diving back into hip-hop. I often get inspired by new releases and then enjoy digging into an artist's discography, exploring related genres, and discovering new things almost daily. I also have this book called 1001 Albums You Must Hear Before You Die, which I’ve used as a music encyclopedia to learn more about different eras and genres."

What makes listening to vinyl different from digital music?

Bonhovinyl: "Listening to vinyl feels like a completely different experience. While I use streaming services on my commute, during workouts, or even at work, sitting down with vinyl is something else entirely. I take the time to sit with the album cover in my hands, put on my headphones, and fully immerse myself in the music. I don’t care much about ultra-high-end equipment; even the crackles on a record add to the charm for me. That tactile, imperfect experience is something you don’t get with digital formats."

How do you choose which records to add to your collection?

Bonhovinyl: "It depends. Lately, I’ve been buying more vinyl from online shops because it’s easier to find specific additions for my collection. But I still love browsing through record stores and attending local record fairs. Sometimes I’m searching for something specific, and other times I let myself be drawn in by an album cover or a vaguely familiar name. It’s a mix of intentional hunting and serendipitous discoveries."

Do you have a favorite record or a story about a special find?

Bonhovinyl: "Almost every record in my collection has a story, but one that stands out is Sunbather by Deafheaven. I found it in a local shop in Leiden back in 2003, during a tough time in my life. The artwork immediately grabbed me, and I’d read that the album was unique within the black metal genre. When I played it at home, something clicked. It was like nothing I’d ever heard before."

What equipment do you use to play your records?

Bonhovinyl: "I’ve got a Technics SL-Q2 turntable that I bought from a record store about 15 years ago. It’s an older model that was fully refurbished, and it’s been incredibly reliable. My amplifier is an Onkyo, a gift from my dad, although it’s starting to show its age. Recently, I upgraded to Dali Oberon 1 speakers. I wanted something small and unobtrusive that still sounds great, and these speakers are exactly what I needed."

How do you share your passion for vinyl with others?

Bonhovinyl: "I mostly share it through my Instagram account, @bonhovinyl. It’s a great platform to connect with other collectors, discover new releases, and find inspiration for my own collection. But for the most part, my collection is a personal hobby. It’s something I enjoy diving into on my own, like my own little escape."

Are there any trends in vinyl collecting that interest you?

Bonhovinyl: "I really enjoy special editions, especially colored pressings. They add an extra dimension to the physical format and the artwork. That said, I try to limit myself to one version of an album—though there are a few exceptions."

Do you have any tips for new collectors?

Bonhovinyl: "First and foremost: just do it! Vinyl is a great way to truly connect with music, creativity, and art. Start small. Maybe someone you know has a stack of dusty records lying around, and you can start there. Invest in a decent turntable that won’t damage your records, and let your journey unfold from there.

Also, check out bargain bins in record stores—you can often find hidden gems for a great price. Finally, connect with other collectors. Sharing your hobby with others is a fantastic way to discover new music and make the experience even more enjoyable."

Bonhovinyl’s passion for vinyl is an inspiring reminder of how music can enrich our lives, not just through what we hear but through what we feel and experience. Be sure to follow his journey on Instagram at @bonhovinyl and explore the world of records through his unique perspective.