MINT: The
record itself is in brand new condition with no surface marks or deterioration
in sound quality. The cover and any extra items such as the lyric sheet,
booklet or poster are in perfect condition. Records advertised as Sealed or
Unplayed should be Mint.
NEAR MINT
or N/MINT : this record appears virtually flawless A very minor scuff and very
little else can appear on the vinyl. It should play without any noise over the
flaw. The flaw is very hard to see. The cover looks as close to perfect with
only minor signs of wear and or age. Minor impressions to the cover (due to the
outer edge of the vinyl resting inside) may be acceptable, however the artwork
is be as close to perfect as can be.
EXCELLENT:
The record shows some signs of having been played, but there is very little
lessening in sound quality. The cover and packaging might have slight wear and
/ or creasing. Record surfaces may show some signs of wear and may have slight
scuffs or very light scratches that don't affect one's listening experiences.
Slight warps that do not affect the sound are "OK".
VERY
GOOD: The record has obviously been played many times, but displays no major
deterioration in sound quality, despite noticeable surface marks and the
occasional light scratch. Normal wear and tear on the cover or extra items,
without any major defects, is acceptable.
GOOD: The
record has been played so much that the sound quality has noticeably
deteriorated, perhaps with some distortion and mild scratches. The cover and
contents suffer from folding, scuffing of edges, spine splits, discoloration,
etc.
FAIR: The
record is still just playable but has not been cared for properly and displays
considerable surface noise; it may even jump. The cover and contents will be
torn, stained and / or defaced.
POOR: The
record will not play properly due to scratches, bad surface noise, etc. The
cover and contents will be badly damaged or partly missing.
BAD: The record is unplayable or might even be broken, and is only
of use as a collection filler."