One of the most recognized mail order stores is Ernie B's (ernieb@calweb.com). Ernie's collection is astounding - you'll find everything from the rare to the everyday as far as reggae. If you're looking for import 7"'s, this is the place to go. Be prepared to spend between $15 and $25 for some of the moderately rare singles, but you can be assured of a good quality product and reliable services. Recently Ernie imposed a $75 minimum order, so come with your want lists in hand.
Tim at Rasslin' Records (http://www.rasslinrecords.com/) not only sells hard to find reggae, but also releases long-lost re-masters on CD (recently, Little John and Cornell Campbell). If you're looking to do some shopping for other random, bizarre esoterica (I've purchased an album of Nazi war hymns from him before), he can certainly help you fill out your collection. Tim's an all-around nice guy and he's easy to find at reggae shows up and down the east coast.
Allen Katz (FAX: 206-525-1791) is one of the first people I ran into that sold hard-to-find reggae - and I mean hard-to-find. He has the largest selection of rare early reggae, rock steady, and ska that I've ever seen. I've never purchased from him, but I e-mailed back and forth a few times several years ago and he seemed quite cordial.
One Drop Records (http://www.onedroprecords.com/) in Washington, DC is a hometown store for me, but I still haven't found my way there. Their selection is solid, they seem quite knowledgeable, and they've been around for almost a decade.
Mentioned last time was Riddim.com, a newcomer. Their selection of singles is quite good and their prices are the best I've seen. I can't vouch for their reliability or value, but I will be placing my first order with them this week and picking it up in person next week, so I'll report how it goes.
For reggae videos, try any of the above stores. Personally, I would stay away from Keeling (who produces and mail orders videos) - I had a frustrating experience with them. I bought a video of theirs in Tower Records, but the video was different from the label on the case. I returned it to them in New York when they said they'd send me the correct video, but after several calls and letters, I realized I was out a video and $15 because they just wouldn't honor their word.
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