MINT
Mint
records are in most cases sealed in original shrink wrap. The
only wear permissible is to the shrink wrap
itself.
NEAR-MINT
NM
records have glossy vinyl. There are no visible defects such
as writing, tape, or stickers on the labels. The labels should
not contain any spindle marks (from someone blindly
trying to put the record on the turntable) The vinyl may have
a few extremely fine hairline scratches or light scuffs that
do not affect the sound quality. The vinyl will "appear" to
have been un-played (It may very well have been played and
well-cared for) The album cover will have NO
writing, tape, creases, folds, seam splits ,stains, ring
wear or Promo holes or cuts!
VG+ (EXCELLENT)
VG+ records
have glossy vinyl. Slight signs of wear, including light
scuffs, very light scratches or slight warping that does
not seriously affect the listening experience is
permissible. Very slight intermittent background noise mostly
in the quiet passages is
acceptable.
The
album cover will have no more than three of the following
imperfections: light writing such as initials or name in one
area, minor creasing, seam splits not larger than
1". Neatly taped seams of 2" or less. It may also
contain very slight ring wear or discoloration, a promo stamp,
punch hole or cut-out as originally
sold.
VG
VG
Records have
more obvious flaws such as more pronounced scratches &
lack of gloss. Groove wear and scratches deep enough to be
felt with a fingernail are common. When played there will be
surface noise but it should not continuously overpower the
music. There are NO skips permissible with no more than
1.5 grahams of tracking force. It is common to hear crackling
and pops especially in the quiet passages. The labels may
contain writing such as a persons name or initials or it may
contain a piece of tape or sticker with or without writing.
The cover may have some seam splits, writing, tape, stickers,
ring wear and scuffs.
VG-
VG-
All of
the defects listed VG category would be more pronounced. The
record will play through without skipping WITH
tracking force. A quick skip or two with no more that 2.5
grahams of tracking force are permissible. The record will
have many obvious flaws but still enjoyable to listen to.
Generally if the record is rare, it is still highly
collectible.
G/G+
Good
(G), Good Plus (G+) Good does not mean Bad! A record in Good
or Good Plus condition can be put onto a turntable and will
play through without skipping WITH
tracking force. A quick skip or two with no more that 2.5
grahams of tracking force are permissible. It will have
significant surface noise and scratches and visible groove
wear (on a styrene record, the groove will be starting to turn
white). A cover or sleeve will have seam splits, especially at
the bottom or on the spine. Tape, writing, ring wear or other
defects will start to overwhelm the
object.
