Newer models play compact discs.

Long before the multi-disc CD changer and the Ipod, there was another way to store and play hundreds of your favorite songs: the jukebox. In diners, saloons and arcades around the country, teens would gather around jukeboxes with pocketfuls of change, waiting to play the latest pop hits on 45 rpm records. But jukeboxes are far more than just record players; they're also beautiful pieces of furniture and, increasingly, sought-after collectibles.

Jack Guarnieri has been involved in every aspect of the coin operated amusement industry since 1975. In 1999 he founded PinballSales.com to sell commercial games to the home market. He personally attends to the business on a daily basis and makes the decisions that insure customer satisfaction. Here he offers a basic guide to collectable vintage jukeboxes:

• More than just music.
  In Guarnieri's opinion, jukebox collecting is about more than just music and memories. There is a distinctive mechanical attraction when a jukebox aficionado walks up to a machine: there's that satisfying sound of the coin when it drops down the slot, and that magical moment when he or she gets to push down the buttons to play a great song.
  
• Fun to watch.
  There's something amazing about watching a metal arm pick up an old vinyl 45 and place it on the turntable to play. Even the newer CD jukeboxes are fun to watch in action.
  
• Gorgeous to look at.
  The best jukeboxes can be appreciated even when they're not playing music, because they're just so beautiful to look at. There are models with curved glass, rising bubbles, multi-colored lights, and stunning chrome details. A restored jukebox can be the center of a home game room, or even a living room.
  
• Check for excess dirt and wear.
  If you're buying a jukebox, open it up and make sure it's not dirty and dusty inside. Look at all the moving parts, and check for signs of excessive wear and tear. The wheels will tell you a lot about how the unit has been treated- if it's been moved around a lot, they'll be noticeably worn.
  
• Buy local.
  According to Guarnieri, a working vintage jukebox will cost between six and eight thousand dollars. He recommends buying one from a local dealer who will be able to service it in the event of any problem.

For more about jukeboxes, check out the following websites:

PinballSales.com
www.pinballsales.com

Always Jukin'
www.2nd-sight.com

The Jukebox Index
www.juke-index.co.nz

Yesterday's Jukes.com
www.yesterdaysjukes.com

The Jukebox Collector Webring
x.webring.com