Final answer:
Swing record collectors value vinyl over digital formats due to the historical and authentic sound quality, especially for rare recordings from the Big Band era.
Step-by-step explanation:
The correct answer to the question provided is option c) They preferred digital formats over vinyl. Swing record collectors are known for their dedication to the authenticity and historical value of their music collections. They typically sought out rare recordings of popular swing bands and highly valued the sound quality of vinyl records. Their interests often focused on the music of the Big Band era, which coincides with the height of swing music's popularity. Digital formats, while convenient, do not carry the same historical or nostalgic value as vinyl records among this niche group of collectors. The rich history of swing music and its roots in the African American community, especially during the Jazz Age, contributes to the preference for the original vinyl format that defined the era.