Grading

Record: NM

Sleeve: GOOD +

Sleeve has some visual wear. The vinyl is in very good condition andplays perfectly (tried and tested).

Poor (P) or Fair (F)

A P or F rating reflects a vinyl ofpoor condition. Discs with these ratings often have major noise issues. Theyskip, repeat and reveal scratching noises often. If you purchase vinyl with a Por F rating, expect badly warped material. Frequently, these records arecracked or have deep scratches. Their covers are either badly damaged ordestroyed completely.

Good (G)

While the term “good” might seempositive, a record carrying a G grade may still be of poor quality. Recordenthusiasts often sell records of top quality. If they’ve rated a record asGood, they may be picking up on undesirable condition traits. Frequently, aG-rated record is sold at a bargain price. It’s useable, but it may haveseveral scratches. Its music has light distortions.

Very Good (VG)

A VG-rated vinyl has experienced alot of use. It’s still useable, but it’ll carry a few distortions. Ranked abovea G-rated record, a VG-rated record often carries light pops and clicks. Itmight have light visible scratches, and it may have split edges. You can enjoylistening to a VG-rated record, and you can use it as an artistic display, too.For the most part, a VG-rated record is undamaged. Upon closer inspection,however, its use will be apparent—both visually and audibly.

Very Good Plus (VG+)

The next step up, a VG+ record haslittle faults. It doesn’t, however, have compromised audio or visuals. A VG+record may have several inaudible marks and a little rub. Its audio may haveslight background crackle. If you’ve come across a VG+ record, you’ve found asolid investment. As with a VG record, however, close inspection may reveal itsage.

Excellent (E)

An Excellent record is similar to aVG+ record. Its light marks will be difficult to spot, however, as will be itsaudio distortions. A lot of E-rated records have been in and out of their sleeveonly a few times. Their minute signs of use, generally, reflect high-qualitycare.

Near Mint (NM)

A Near Mint record is a fantasticinvestment. It looks glossy, and it’s clearly only been played several times.NM vinyl has little to no markings, and its package is either untouched ornearly untouched. Don’t expect to find any distortions on a NM record. Inessence: A NM record is imperfect only in its one-or-two-time use.

Mint (M)

A Mint record is perfect. It’s neverbeen played, and it might’ve never been removed from its package. It’s fullysealed, and it has no blemishes or audio distortions. Mint vinyl is rare, andit’s incredibly valuable.