Armin van Buuren is bringing back the classic sound of vinyl for his upcoming residency at UNVRS Ibiza. The trance legend has announced a special vinyl-only hour for every show, blending his deep-rooted history with the modern club experience.
The residency begins September 7 and runs through October 5. Each Monday, Armin will take over the club with a five-hour open-to-close set. However, one hour of every performance will focus entirely on the tactile, authentic sound of vinyl records.
Armin revealed the news through Instagram, teasing fans with a special vinyl set every five weeks before clarifying that the format will be a recurring highlight. The DJ is pressing custom vinyl records specifically for these performances, while also incorporating some of his original, vintage records into the booth.
These sets will not simply recreate his old record collection. Armin plans to create his own custom edits for many of the tracks. Because many classic trance records run for several minutes, they can present challenges for modern DJ techniques. By removing digital shortcuts like hot cues, Armin is forced to rely on his technical skill and careful planning, ensuring each track is perfectly placed.
Bringing Classic Trance Back to the Booth
The initiative has a deep personal connection for the artist. Armin began his professional career in the late 1990s, when vinyl was the industry standard. By bringing this format back to the dancefloor, he hopes to capture the raw energy that defined the early days of the genre. The vinyl segment will rotate weekly, ensuring that no two shows are identical.
Fans can expect to hear timeless records from artists such as Chicane, Energy 52, Paul van Dyk, and The Thrillseekers. Armin has already successfully tested the concept at UNVRS with a vinyl-only A State of Trance set earlier this summer, proving that the format still resonates with modern audiences.
Celebrating 25 Years of A State of Trance
The residency arrives during a landmark year for Armin and his A State of Trance brand. As the legendary radio show and event series continues its 25th-anniversary celebrations throughout 2026, these extended sets provide the perfect platform to explore his musical history while showcasing the sounds that continue to shape his sets today.
Armin van Buuren is bringing a special vinyl-only hour to every show of his UNVRS Ibiza residency.
With five-hour sets and a dedicated vinyl hour, the UNVRS residency offers a unique opportunity for fans to experience the evolution of trance music firsthand. Each week will offer a new journey, making it a must-see for those attending multiple shows.