GRADING
SYSTEM:
Absolutely perfect in every way. Certainly, never
been played, possibly even still sealed. Should be used sparingly as a grade,
if at all.
Near Mint (NM or M-)
A nearly perfect record. A NM or M- record has more
than likely never been played, and the vinyl will play perfectly, with no
imperfections during playback. The record should show no obvious signs of
wear. The sleeve should have no more than the most minor defects, such as any
sign of slight handling. A cover should have no creases, folds, seam splits,
cut-out holes, or other noticeable similar defects. The same should be true of
any other inserts, such as posters, lyric sleeves, etc.
Very Good Plus (VG+)
A Very Good Plus record will show some signs that
it was played and otherwise handled by a previous owner who took good care of
it. Defects should be more of a cosmetic nature, not affecting the actual
playback. 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". The label may
have some ring wear or discoloration, but it should be barely noticeable. Spindle
marks may be present. Picture sleeves and inner sleeves will have some slight
wear, slightly turned-up corners, or a slight seam split. An LP cover may have
slight signs of wear, and may be marred by a cut-out hole, indentation, or cut
corner. In general, if not for a couple of minor things wrong with it, this
would be Near Mint.
Very Good (VG)
Many of the defects found in a VG+ record will be
more pronounced in a VG disc. Surface noise will be evident upon playing,
especially in soft passages and during a song's intro and fade but will not
overpower the music otherwise. Groove wear will start to be noticeable, as with
light scratches. Labels may be marred by writing or have tape or stickers (or their
residue) attached. The same will be true of picture sleeves or LP covers.
However, it will not have all these problems at the same time.
Good (G), Good Plus (G+)
A record in Good or Good Plus condition can be
played through without skipping. But it will have significant surface noise,
scratches, and visible groove wear. A cover or sleeve will have seam splits,
especially at the bottom or on the spine. Tape, writing, ring wear, or other
defects will be present. While the record will be playable without skipping,
noticeable surface noise and "ticks" will almost certainly accompany
the playback.