Music Trader Chain is out of business in HB

The San Diego-based chain specializing in used CDs opens in Huntington Beach.

A San Diego-based music store chain moves into the retail space at the corner of Orange Avenue and Main Street in Downtown Huntington Beach.

Music Trader, the first full-service music store in Downtown Huntington Beach opened in March 2005. Store manager Burt Jenkins, a tattooed punk rock musician who once played with San Diego hardcore group Built to Last said the Huntington Beach location -- the first Music Trader store to open in Orange County -- will carry a heavy dose of punk and hard rock, but will cater to a wider range of musical tastes. He said the store also sells new and used vinyl records.

Music Trader specializes in used CDs. When former owner Jeff Clark opened the first Music Trader in San Diego in 1987, a used CD retailer concept was introduced and became the model for national chains like Wherehouse Music and Second Spin. By 1999, Clark had opened 16 stores and eventually agreed to the sell the chain to Oklahoma-based company CD Warehouse. Just as Clark sold his interest, online music trading was gaining in popularity and making a major dent in sales.

CD Warehouse filed for bankruptcy and closed nine of its Music Trader stores in July 2002. The remaining assets were sold to former CEO Christopher Salyer, who now manages the reemerging chain. Jenkins said the chain continues to look for new ways to compete in the fledgling used CD market. If things go well in Huntington Beach, Jenkins predicts other Orange County store will open.
 

Street parking or garage parking across the street at Plaza Almeria is available for a fee.

Location: 328 Main Street, Huntington Beach, California 92648