When it comes to grading vinyl records, understanding their condition is crucial for both buyers and sellers
While it’s not an exact science, there are widely accepted guidelines to help navigate this process.
Let’s break down the vinyl grading system:
Mint (M)
These are absolutely perfect in every way, Mint should never be used as a grade unless more than one person agrees that the record or sleeve truly is in this condition. There is no set percentage of the Near Mint value these can bring; it is best negotiated between buyer and seller.
Near Mint (NM)
The record has been on a shelf between other records, The vinyl looks glossy and has likely been played only a few times, No marks on the vinyl, and the entire package is complete and good condition.
A good description of a NM record is “it looks like it just came from a retail store and it was opened for the first time.” In other words, it’s nearly perfect. Many dealers won’t use a grade higher than this, implying (perhaps correctly) that no record or sleeve is ever truly perfect.
Records are shiny, with no visible defects. Writing, stickers or other markings cannot appear on the label, nor can any “spindle marks” from someone trying to blindly put the record on the turntable. Major factory defects also must be absent; a record and label obviously pressed off center is not Near Mint. If played, it will do so with no surface noise. (NM records don’t have to be “never played”; a record used on an excellent turntable can remain NM after many plays if the disc is properly cared for.)
Covers are free of creases, ring wear and seam splits of any kind.
Excellent (E)
Similar to Near Mint, but with very light marks from being in and out of the inner sleeve or minor signs of use. Still visually appealing and enjoyable to listen to.
A good description of a E record is “except for a couple minor things, this would be Near Mint.” Most collectors, especially those who want to play their records, will be happy with an E record, especially if it toward the high end of the grade
Very Good Plus (VG+)
Some further faults are acceptable, as long as they don’t significantly compromise the visual or audible quality, Examples include light rubs, inaudible marks, or slight background crackle.
Records may show some slight signs of wear, including light scuffs or very light scratches that do not affect the listening experience. Slight warps that do not affect the sound are OK. Minor signs of handling are OK, too, such as telltale marks around the center hole, but repeated playing has not misshapen the hole. There may be some very light ring wear or discoloration, but it should be barely noticeable.
Covers should have only minor wear. A VG+ cover might have some very minor seam wear or a split (less than one inch long) at the bottom, the most vulnerable location. Also, a VG+ cover may have some defacing, such as a cut-out marking. Covers with cut-out markings can never be considered Near Mint.
Slightly frayed edges and corners.
Cover/Sleeve inside may have yellow discolouring.
Very Good (VG)
Many of the imperfections found on a VG+ record are more obvious on a VG record. That said, VG records — which usually sell for no more than 25 percent of a NM record — are among the biggest bargains in record collecting, because most of the “big money” goes for more perfect copies. For many listeners, a VG record or sleeve will be worth the money.
Records have more obvious flaws than their counterparts in better shape. They lack most of the original gloss found on factory-fresh records. Groove wear is evident on sight, as are light scratches deep enough to feel with a fingernail. When played, a VG record has surface noise, and some scratches may be audible, especially in soft passages and during a song’s intro and ending. But the noise will not overpower the music otherwise.
Minor writing, tape or a sticker can detract from the label. Many collectors who have jukeboxes will use VG records in them and not think twice. They remain a fine listening experience, just not the same as if it were in better shape.
Covers will have many signs of human handling. Ring wear in the middle or along the edges of the cover where the edge of a record would reside, is obvious, though not overwhelming.
Some more creases might be visible. Seam splitting will be more obvious; it may appear on all three sides, though it won’t be obvious upon looking. Someone might have written or it or stamped a price tag or promo sticker on it, too.
More notacable frayed edges and corners.
Cover/Sleeve insides may have yellow discolouring.
Good (G)
Reserved for items in less desirable condition.Significant wear, edge splits, and slight audible issues, Typically sold at at a cheaper price with full disclosure.
These records go for 10 to 15 percent of the Near Mint value, if you are lucky.
Record Good does not mean bad! The record still plays through without skipping, so it can serve as filler until something better comes along. But it has significant surface noise and groove wear, and the label is worn, with significant ring wear, heavy writing, or obvious damage caused by someone trying to remove tape or stickers.
Cover has ring wear to the point of distraction, has seam splits obvious on sight and may have even heavier writing, such as, for example, huge radio station letters written across the front.
Significant ring wear, heavy writing, heavy frayed edges and corners.
Cover/Sleeves inside may have yellow discolouring.
Poor (P) and Fair (F)
These grades indicate severe problems, Major noise issues, skipping, deep scratches, and cracked or warped records, The cover may also be in very poor condition
Poor (P) and Fair (F) records go for 0 to 5 percent of the Near Mint value, if they go at all. More likely, they end up going in the trash.
Records are cracked, impossibly warped, or skip and/or repeat when an attempt is made to play them.
Covers are so heavily damaged that you almost want to cry.
Remember that grading is finite, and while different genres may have varying standards, a grade remains consistent. So whether you’re a reggae fan, jazz enthusiast, or rock aficionado, the system applies universally. Happy spinning!