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Are you feeling the itch to add some retro cool to your home or business? Maybe you want to relive the good old days by hosting your own dance parties or you just love the idea of having your own personal DJ at your fingertips.
Whatever the reason, you might be considering getting a jukebox. But before you start saving up your spare change, you might be wondering: just how expensive are these things?
Full-size jukeboxes (whether new or antiques can be quite expensive while countertop or other smaller jukeboxes won’t cost quite as much.
- A countertop jukebox will run you $80-$100.
- A smaller retro-style jukebox will cost you $800-$900.
- A full-size jukebox will cost $1,500-$2,000.
- An Antique jukebox (in working condition) will cost anywhere from $1,500 to $6,000
Buckle up because we’re about to dive into the wonderful world of expensive jukeboxes and everything that goes into their price tag. And just a heads up, this isn’t going to be one of those “clickbait” articles that promises you the answer in the title only to drag it out over a bunch of paragraphs.
No, we’re going to give it to you straight: luxury jukeboxes can be expensive, but it really depends on a number of factors. Both new and vintage vinyl-playing jukeboxes are expensive but you can get digital ones that are not too bad.
While they’re not expensive (at least when compared to record-playing jukeboxes, digital ones also are missing a lot of the nostalgic factors that a more expensive jukebox will have.
First things first, let’s define our terms. A jukebox is essentially a machine that plays music through a coin-operated system. You plop in your coins (or in modern times, maybe swipe your card), choose your song, and voila! Instant dance party.
Jukeboxes have been around since the early 20th century and have undergone many changes over the years, from the technology used to play the music to the design and customization options.
Now that we’ve got that out of the way, let’s talk about the different types of jukeboxes that are out there.
Types of Jukebox Models
When it comes to jukeboxes, you’ve got a few options to choose from. Let’s break them down:
Analog jukeboxes: These are the classic jukeboxes that you might picture in your head when you think of the word. They use records or CDs to play music and often have a vintage, retro look to them.
They can be a lot of fun to collect and restore, but they can also be a bit finicky and require more maintenance than other types of jukeboxes.
Digital jukeboxes: These jukeboxes use a digital system to play music, either through a hard drive or streaming service. They tend to be more modern in design and often have more customization options, such as the ability to display album art or music videos.
They can be a bit pricier than analog jukeboxes, but they also tend to be more reliable and require less maintenance.
Smartphone jukeboxes: As the name suggests, these jukeboxes use a smartphone or tablet as the music source. They often have a more modern, sleek design and are generally the most affordable option.
The downside is that you’re limited to the music that’s on your phone or that you can stream, so you don’t have the same level of variety as with other jukeboxes.
So, there you have it: three types of jukeboxes to choose from. But wait, there’s more! The type of jukebox you choose isn’t the only factor that determines the price.
Let’s take a look at some other things that can impact the cost.
Factors that Influence Jukebox Price
Age and rarity
Just like with any collectible, the age and rarity of a jukebox can have a big impact on its price. A vintage jukebox from the 1950s is going to cost a lot more than a newer model, especially if it’s in good condition and has unique features.
On the flip side, newer jukeboxes tend to be more affordable, but they may not have the same level of nostalgia or charm as an older model.
Condition
The condition of the jukebox is another important factor to consider. A jukebox that is in good working condition is going to be more expensive than one that needs repairs or has visible damage.
However, if you don’t mind putting in a little elbow grease (or paying someone to do it for you), you might be able to score a deal on a jukebox that needs a little TLC.
Just be prepared for the possibility of unexpected expenses down the road for repairs or parts replacements.
Brand and model
Different brands and models of jukeboxes can also have a big impact on the price. Some brands are more well-known and respected in the jukebox world, which can drive up the price.
Similarly, certain models may be more sought after due to their features or design, which can also increase the price.
Availability and demand
Just like with any product, the availability and demand for a particular jukebox can affect its price. If there’s a high demand for a certain model and not many available for sale, the price is likely to be higher.
On the other hand, if there are a lot of jukeboxes available and not as much demand, the price might be more negotiable.
Customization options
If you want to add some personal touches to your jukebox, you might be able to do so through customization options. This could include things like custom lighting, a themed cabinet, or an upgraded sound system.
Keep in mind that these options can add to the overall cost of the jukebox.
Price Range for Different Types of Jukeboxes (How Expensive Are They?)
So, now that we’ve looked at the various factors that can impact the price of a jukebox, you might be wondering what you can expect to pay for one.
Here’s a rough estimate of the price range for different types of jukeboxes:
- Analog jukeboxes: $1,000 – $15,000
- Digital jukeboxes: $2,000 – $10,000
- Smartphone jukeboxes: $500 – $2,000
Of course, these are just rough estimates and the actual price of a jukebox will depend on the specific factors we discussed earlier. A vintage analog jukebox in excellent condition is going to cost a lot more than a newer digital jukebox that needs some work.
Cost of Vintage Jukeboxes (Like Rock-Ola
So, you’re thinking about getting yourself a vintage jukebox. I mean, who wouldn’t want a giant hunk of metal and plastic blasting out classic tunes from the good old days?
But before you run off to buy one, you might want to consider the cost. Because, let me tell you, vintage jukeboxes are quite valuable.
First off, there’s the cost of actually buying the jukebox itself. Depending on the condition and model, you could be looking at anywhere from a few hundred dollars to tens of thousands of dollars. And let’s be real, you’re not going to find a diamond in the rough for a few hundred bucks.
You’re going to be paying top dollar for jukebox models that are in good working condition.
But that’s not where the costs end, my friend. Oh no, there’s the cost of maintenance and repairs. These things are old, and they’re going to need some TLC to keep them running smoothly.
You’ll be paying for parts, labor, and probably some tears of frustration. And don’t even get me started on the cost of the actual records. Those things ain’t cheap either.
All in all, getting a vintage jukebox is going to cost you an arm and a leg to buy and to maintain. But hey, if you’re a true music lover and you’re willing to fork over the cash, then go for it. Just don’t say I didn’t warn you.
Cost of Digital Jukeboxes
Let me tell you, folks, digital jukeboxes are not cheap(even if they aren’t made by Wurlitzer). I mean, have you seen the price tag on some of them from different jukebox manufacturers? It’s like they’re made of solid gold or something.
But, I guess that’s what you get when you want to rock out to the latest and greatest tunes, right?
First of all, there’s the initial cost of the jukebox itself. We’re talking thousands of dollars here, people. And that’s just for the basic model. Want to add some fancy features like a touchscreen or a built-in karaoke system? Well, you better be prepared to fork over even more cash.
But, it’s not just the cost of the jukebox that you have to worry about. Oh no, there’s also the cost of licensing fees for all the music you want to play. And let me tell you, those fees add up quickly. It’s like a never-ending cycle of paying for the music you love.
But, I guess in the end, it’s all worth it for that sweet, sweet music. Because let’s face it, there’s nothing quite like belting out your favorite song with a room full of strangers. And if you have to spend a small fortune to make that happen, then so be it. It’s all in the name of good times and good music, right?
In short, digital jukeboxes are not cheap, but they are worth it. It’s the cost of having the best music in your house or your club, but it’s worth the cost for the music lover.
Cost of Table-Top Jukeboxes
So you want to add some nostalgia to your home or business with a table-top jukebox, but you’re wondering about the cost?
Modern table-top or countertop jukeboxes can be purchased for anywhere between $50-$100 so they aren’t too terribly expensive. However, if you are looking for a vintage table-top or countertop model those can run anywhere from a few hundred to a few thousand dollars depending on the rarity and condition.
But don’t forget, you’ll also need to fork over some cash for the music. Most table-top jukeboxes use CDs or digital downloads, so you’ll need to stock up on your favorite tunes. And let me tell you, those CDs can add up quickly.
Plus, you’ll need to keep updating your collection to keep up with the times and impress your guests.
Some modern jukeboxes will allow you to just stream music from your phone but that kind of defeats the purpose. A Bluetooth jukebox is nice but you miss out on a lot of the classic retro sound that you will get from vintage or older models.
And let’s not forget about maintenance and repairs. If you purchase a modern version you won’t have to worry much about maintenance but if you get an older one it is something that you will want to consider.
With a vintage or collectible jukebox, you should expect to spend some money on repairs and upkeep to keep your jukebox in tip-top shape.
In conclusion, owning a table-top jukebox is not for the faint of heart or wallet. But if you’re willing to fork over the cash, it’ll be worth it for the memories and the cool factor.
Where to Buy a Jukebox
Now that you have an idea of what you might be able to expect to pay for a jukebox, you might be wondering where to start your search. Here are a few options:
- Antique stores and flea markets: If you’re looking for a vintage jukebox, checking out antique stores and flea markets is a good place to start. You might be able to score a deal on a jukebox that needs a little bit of work, but be prepared to do some digging and haggling to get the best price.
- Online marketplaces: Sites like eBay and Etsy can be great places to find jukeboxes for sale. Just be sure to do your research and be aware of the risks of buying from an individual seller (e.g. the jukebox might not be in as good of condition as advertised).
- Specialty jukebox dealers: If you want a newer jukebox or prefer the convenience of buying from a professional dealer, you might want to consider looking into specialty jukebox dealers. These dealers often have a wide selection of jukeboxes available and can provide more information and support than individual sellers. However, you can expect to pay a premium for this convenience.
Maintenance and Upkeep Costs for Jukeboxes
So, you’ve found the perfect jukebox and you’ve saved up enough money to make the purchase. Congratulations!
But before you start dancing a jig, it’s important to consider the ongoing costs of owning a jukebox. Here are a few things to keep in mind:
- Record or CD replacement: If you have an analog jukebox, you’ll need to replace the records or CDs from time to time as they wear out or become damaged. This can be a bit of a hassle and can add up over time, especially if you have a large collection of music.
- Repairs and parts replacements: Just like with any mechanical device, jukeboxes can sometimes break down or need parts replaced. Depending on the issue, this can be a costly repair. Be prepared for the possibility of unexpected expenses in this department.
- Professional cleaning and restoration services: If you have a vintage jukebox, you might want to consider hiring a professional to clean and restore it from time to time. This can help extend the life of your jukebox and keep it looking its best, but it can also add to the overall cost of ownership.
- Ongoing expenses for software updates and music licensing: If you have a digital jukebox, you might incur ongoing expenses for software updates and music licensing. These costs can vary depending on the specific jukebox and the music sources you use.
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, jukeboxes can be a fun and nostalgically cool addition to any home or business, but they can vary in price depending on a number of factors. The type of jukebox, the age and rarity, the condition, the brand and model, the availability and demand, and the customization options are all things that can impact the price.
In general, analog jukeboxes tend to cost $1,000 – $15,000, digital jukeboxes cost $2,000 – $10,000, and smartphone jukeboxes cost $500 – $2,000.
There are a few different places to buy jukeboxes, including antique stores and flea markets, online marketplaces, and specialty jukebox dealers. It’s also important to consider the ongoing maintenance and upkeep costs for jukeboxes, such as record or CD replacement, repairs, and parts replacements, professional cleaning and restoration services, and ongoing expenses for software updates and music licensing.
So, are jukeboxes expensive? As with most things in life, it really depends. You can get cheap countertop or small jukeboxes for a pretty cheap price but other jukeboxes can be quite expensive.
But if you do your research, shop around, and budget for ongoing expenses, you might be able to find the perfect jukebox for your home or business at a price that works for you.