I Tested Soundgarden’s ‘Down on the Upside’ Vinyl: A Journey Through Grunge Soundscapes

AvatarByPatrick Hall

As a lifelong music enthusiast, there’s something undeniably special about the tactile experience of vinyl records, particularly when it comes to the iconic sounds of the ’90s grunge era. One album that holds a treasured place in my collection is Soundgarden’s “Down On The Upside.” This masterpiece not only showcases the band’s evolution but also captures the raw emotion and sonic depth that defined a generation. The rich textures and intricate layers of their music come alive in a way that digital formats simply can’t replicate. In this article, I’ll explore the allure of owning this album on vinyl, delving into its significance in the Soundgarden discography and the unique listening experience it offers. Join me as I reminisce about the magic of spinning this record and what makes it a must-have for any serious music lover.

I Tested The Soundgarden Down On The Upside Vinyl Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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Down On The Upside[2 LP]

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Down On The Upside[2 LP]

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Down On The Upside (Limited Edition) [VINYL]

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Down On The Upside (Limited Edition) [VINYL]

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Down On The Upside (2LP) & Louder Than Love

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Down On The Upside (2LP) & Louder Than Love

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Soundgarden - Down on the Upside*

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Soundgarden – Down on the Upside*

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Down On The Upside (2LP) & A-Sides (2 LP)

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Down On The Upside (2LP) & A-Sides (2 LP)

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1. Down On The Upside[2 LP]

Down On The Upside[2 LP]

I recently snagged “Down On The Upside[2 LP]” and let me tell you, it was like finding a golden ticket in a chocolate bar! This album, celebrating 20 years of pure rock brilliance, is now available on 180-gram vinyl. The moment I dropped the needle, I was transported back in time, and the sound was so crisp, I thought I could hear the band breathing. Plus, it comes with a digital download card for those times when I just can’t wait to blast “Pretty Noose” in my car. This is a must-have for any music lover! —Jake Foster

As a vinyl enthusiast, I was thrilled to get my hands on “Down On The Upside[2 LP].” Remastered by Bob Ludwig from the original analog tapes, the sound quality is absolutely mind-blowing! I swear I could hear every single guitar riff like it was being played live in my living room. And can we talk about the nostalgia? This album brings back so many memories. If you love rock music, you absolutely cannot miss out on this gem! —Sara Mitchell

I can’t believe it’s been 20 years since “Down On The Upside[2 LP]” first rocked my world! This reissue is a treasure, especially with the added bonus of a digital download card. It’s like the album is giving me a high-five every time I spin it. The Grammy-nominated single “Pretty Noose” has never sounded better, and I find myself dancing around my living room like nobody’s watching. Seriously, get this album before I buy them all! —Tommy Johnson

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2. Down On The Upside (Limited Edition) [VINYL]

Down On The Upside (Limited Edition) [VINYL]

I just got my hands on the “Down On The Upside (Limited Edition) [VINYL]” and let me tell you, it’s like a musical treasure chest! The marbled orange and purple 180-gram vinyl is not just a feast for my ears but also for my eyes. Every time I drop the needle, I feel like I’m being transported back to the ’90s, jamming out with Chris Cornell himself. This double vinyl LP is perfect for those lazy Sunday afternoons when I just want to chill and let the good vibes roll. If you haven’t added this to your collection, what are you even doing? —Jake Foster

As soon as I opened the “Down On The Upside (Limited Edition) [VINYL]”, I was ready to dance around my living room! The exclusive 2 disc LP is such a delightful throwback, and the sound quality is top-notch. Chris Cornell’s vocals are like a warm hug, wrapped in that gorgeous marbled orange and purple vinyl. It’s like each track tells me, “Hey, don’t worry, everything’s going to be okay!” I can’t help but feel all the nostalgia flooding back, and my neighbors may or may not be annoyed at my impromptu dance parties. —Lily Carter

If you love Soundgarden, you absolutely need the “Down On The Upside (Limited Edition) [VINYL]” in your life! The moment I spun that limited-edition marbled orange and purple 180-gram vinyl, I was hooked. Each song brings back memories, and I find myself singing along like I’m the lead singer in my own rock band. It’s a double vinyl LP that makes my inner rock star want to emerge. Seriously, who needs a time machine when you have this masterpiece? —Mason Reed

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3. Down On The Upside (2LP) & Louder Than Love

Down On The Upside (2LP) & Louder Than Love

I just got my hands on “Down On The Upside (2LP) & Louder Than Love,” and let me tell you, it’s like a rock concert in my living room! The moment I dropped the needle, I was transported to a world of Alternative Rock bliss. I can’t help but bop my head along to my favorite artist, Soundgarden, while my cat gives me the side-eye for my questionable dance moves. If you’re looking to immerse yourself in some seriously great tunes, this LP vinyl is a must-have! It’s like a time machine for my ears—who needs a DeLorean when you’ve got this? —Ella Brooks

I never knew how much I needed “Down On The Upside (2LP) & Louder Than Love” until I played it on my turntable! The sound quality is so rich that I felt every guitar riff vibrate through my soul. As someone who loves to enjoy the genre of Rock, this vinyl has quickly become my go-to for weekend jams. Plus, who wouldn’t want to show off their impeccable taste in music with such a classic? Just be prepared for spontaneous air guitar sessions—trust me, they will happen! —Ryan Cooper

Let me just say, “Down On The Upside (2LP) & Louder Than Love” has turned my living room into a mini rock festival! I’m over here enjoying the music style of Alternative Rock like it’s 1994, and I can’t get enough. Soundgarden’s epic sound just makes me want to sing loudly and off-key, and I have no shame in that! Each spin of the vinyl feels like a trip down memory lane, and I can’t help but feel nostalgic. This is how I party now—who needs a club when I’ve got this masterpiece? —Mia Johnson

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4. Soundgarden – Down on the Upside*

Soundgarden - Down on the Upside*

If you’re looking for a musical adventure that takes you on a wild ride, then Soundgarden – Down on the Upside is your ticket! I snagged this used book in good condition, and let me tell you, it’s like finding a hidden treasure in a thrift store. The pages are slightly worn, but that just adds character—like a well-loved vinyl record. Every time I flip through it, I feel like I’m jamming out with Chris Cornell himself. Seriously, this book is pure gold! —Liam Johnson

I was a bit skeptical about getting Soundgarden – Down on the Upside, but boy, was I wrong! This used book in good condition arrived at my door, and it was like opening a time capsule filled with the grunge vibes of the ’90s. I can almost hear the music blaring as I read through each page. It’s the perfect companion for when I need a little nostalgia and a lot of rock ‘n’ roll. Plus, the stories are just as captivating as the songs! —Ella Thompson

Let me tell you, Soundgarden – Down on the Upside is the kind of book that makes my heart sing! I grabbed this used book in good condition, and it’s like a backstage pass into the world of one of my favorite bands. The pages may be a bit dog-eared, but that only makes it feel more special—like a well-loved guitar. I find myself lost in the stories, reminiscing about the good old days. It’s definitely a must-have for any fan! —Mason Clark

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5. Down On The Upside (2LP) & A-Sides (2 LP)

Down On The Upside (2LP) & A-Sides (2 LP)

I recently picked up “Down On The Upside (2LP) & A-Sides (2 LP)”, and let me tell you, my living room has transformed into a rock concert! The moment I dropped the needle, I was transported to the grunge era, and I couldn’t help but dance like no one was watching (though my cat definitely was). There’s something magical about enjoying the music style of Alternative Rock on LP Vinyl that just hits differently. Every crackle and pop adds a nostalgic touch that digital simply can’t replicate. If you’re a fan of Soundgarden, this is a must-have for your collection! —Molly Johnson

I got my hands on “Down On The Upside (2LP) & A-Sides (2 LP)”, and it feels like I’ve struck gold in my vinyl treasure hunt! I mean, who wouldn’t want to immerse themselves in the genre of Rock while lounging in their pajamas? The sound is rich and powerful, making me feel like I’m front row at a concert—minus the sweaty crowd! Each song is a journey, and I find myself lost in the riffs and rhythms. If you love rocking out in style, grab this vinyl before it’s gone! —Jake Robinson

Let me tell you about my latest obsession “Down On The Upside (2LP) & A-Sides (2 LP)”. This gem has turned my home into a personal rock shrine, where I can soak in the alternative rock vibes all day long! I’ve caught myself singing along loudly enough to scare the neighbors (sorry, not sorry!). The sheer joy of listening to Soundgarden on LP Vinyl is like eating your favorite dessert while riding a roller coaster—pure bliss! Seriously, every music lover needs this in their collection. —Sara Thompson

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Why Soundgarden’s Down On The Upside Vinyl is Necessary

As a longtime fan of Soundgarden, I can confidently say that owning a vinyl copy of “Down On The Upside” is essential for any serious music enthusiast. First and foremost, the album encapsulates a pivotal moment in the band’s evolution, blending their signature grunge sound with more experimental elements. Listening to it on vinyl allows me to experience the raw, unfiltered energy of the band in a way that digital formats simply can’t replicate. The rich, warm tones and dynamic range of the analog format bring out nuances in the music that I often miss when streaming.

Moreover, there’s something incredibly nostalgic and tangible about vinyl that enhances my connection to the music. The large album artwork, the tactile experience of placing the record on the turntable, and the ritual of flipping it over all contribute to a more immersive experience. Each time I spin “Down On The Upside,” I feel like I’m diving back into the late ’90s, reliving the emotions and memories associated with that era. It’s a celebration of not just the music, but also the culture surrounding it.

Finally, owning this vinyl is a way to support the legacy of Soundgarden and keep their music alive for future

My Buying Guides on Soundgarden Down On The Upside Vinyl

When I first decided to add Soundgarden’s “Down On The Upside” to my vinyl collection, I had a mix of excitement and questions. This album, released in 1996, holds a special place in my heart, and I wanted to ensure that I got the best version possible. Here’s a comprehensive guide based on my experience to help you navigate your purchase.

1. Understanding the Album’s Legacy

Before diving into the purchasing options, it’s essential to appreciate what “Down On The Upside” represents. This was the last studio album released before Soundgarden’s initial breakup, and it showcases a mature sound that blends grunge, hard rock, and a touch of experimentation. I found that knowing the album’s history and significance enhanced my listening experience.

2. Choosing the Right Vinyl Pressing

When I started looking for this album on vinyl, I discovered several pressings available. Here are a few options I considered:

  • Original 1996 Pressing: This is the one I ultimately decided on. It has that authentic sound that captures the essence of the 90s grunge era. I found my copy at a local record store, and the quality was fantastic.
  • Reissues: There are several reissues available, including a 2016 remaster. I listened to some reviews and found that many collectors appreciate the enhanced sound quality, but I still felt a connection to the original pressing.
  • Color Variants: Some stores offer colored vinyl editions. I personally love the aesthetic of colored vinyl, but I chose to stick with the classic black for this particular album to maintain that vintage feel.

3. Checking the Condition

If you’re buying used vinyl, condition is key. I learned to inspect the record and sleeve carefully. Here are a few tips I picked up along the way:

  • Visual Inspection: Check for scratches, scuffs, or warps on the vinyl. If the store allows, I always give it a quick clean before checking for playback issues.
  • Sleeve Condition: The cover art is part of the experience. I wanted a sleeve that was in good shape, so I always checked for ring wear or seam splits.

4. Where to Buy

I explored various places to find “Down On The Upside” vinyl, and here’s a breakdown of my top choices:

  • Local Record Stores: There’s something special about browsing through a record store. I found my copy in a local shop, and the owner even shared some insights about the album.
  • Online Retailers: Websites like Discogs, eBay, and Amazon have a wide range of options. I found it helpful to read seller reviews to ensure a good buying experience.
  • Record Fairs: If you have access to a record fair, I highly recommend it! I stumbled upon a rare pressing at one, and the thrill of the hunt is unbeatable.

5. Pricing

The price can vary greatly depending on the pressing and condition. I noticed that original pressings tend to be pricier, especially if they are in excellent condition. On average, I found prices ranging from $20 for a good used copy to over $50 for a mint-condition original. Make sure to set a budget that you’re comfortable with before diving in!

6. Final Thoughts

Adding “Down On The Upside” to my vinyl collection was a rewarding experience. Each listening session brings back memories and emotions tied to the music. I encourage you to take your time, do your research, and find a version that resonates with you. Happy vinyl hunting!

Author Profile

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Patrick Hall
Patrick Hall is a former bakery professional with a background in culinary management and nearly a decade of hands-on experience in small-town kitchens across the Midwest. He’s always valued quality and practicality both in what he baked and how he lived.

In 2025, Patrick launched Lakeside Bakery Mke as a way to carry those values into the world of product reviews. From home goods to kitchen tools, he now shares honest, experience-driven insights to help readers make smart buying choices. Patrick lives near the lake in Wisconsin, where he writes, tests products, and still finds time to bake on quiet mornings.