We use the “Goldmine Grading Standard” to ensure the accuracy and reliability of our vinyl record assessments. This industry-standard system, established by Goldmine Magazine, provides a detailed and objective way to evaluate the condition of vinyl records.
We meticulously inspect each record, assessing factors such as surface quality, sound fidelity, and packaging condition. Our goal is to offer you a clear and honest representation of the product you are purchasing.
All photos displayed on our site are genuine images of the records available for sale, allowing you to view their actual condition. We are committed to providing detailed and transparent grading to help you make informed purchasing decisions.
Records in Sealed condition are like new and remain unopened.
Absolutely perfect in every way. These records have certainly never been played and may still be sealed. This grade should be used sparingly, if at all.
A nearly perfect record. An NM or M- record has likely never been played and will play flawlessly, with no imperfections. Many dealers avoid grading higher than this, implying that no record is ever truly perfect. The record should show no obvious signs of wear. A 45 RPM or EP sleeve may only have very minor defects from slight handling. An LP cover should be free from creases, folds, seam splits, cut-out holes, or other similar defects. The same applies to any inserts, such as posters or lyric sleeves.
A Very Good Plus record will show some signs of play and handling by a previous owner who took good care of it. Defects are cosmetic and do not affect playback. Record surfaces may show slight scuffs or very light scratches that don’t affect listening experiences. Slight warps that do not affect the sound are acceptable. Labels may have minor ring wear or discoloration, and spindle marks may be present. Picture sleeves and inner sleeves will show slight wear, turned-up corners, or minor seam splits. An LP cover may have slight signs of wear, such as a cut-out hole, indentation, or cut corner. Generally, if not for a couple of minor issues, this would be graded as Near Mint.
A VG record will have more pronounced defects than a VG+ record. Surface noise will be noticeable, especially during softer passages and the intro and fade of songs, but it won’t overpower the music. Groove wear will be apparent, along with light scratches that can be felt with a fingernail and will affect the sound. Labels might have writing, tape, stickers, or their residue. Picture sleeves or LP covers might show similar issues but not all at once.
A Good or Good Plus record can be played through without skipping but will have significant surface noise, scratches, and visible groove wear. Covers and sleeves may have seam splits, especially at the bottom or spine, along with tape, writing, and ring wear. Although playable without skipping, expect noticeable surface noise and “ticks” during playback.
A Fair record is cracked, badly warped, and wonβt play through without skipping or repeating. Picture sleeves may be water-damaged, split on all three seams, and heavily worn and written on. The LP cover may barely hold the record inside, and inner sleeves will be fully split, crinkled, and written upon.