Vinyl Stories Pt. 3: The Record Grading System

Thanks for joining us for another installment of Vinyl Stories! Today we're going to go over the record grading system, which can be a bit confusing for new collectors, and how to properly package your records for shipping. 

A record graded as Mint (M) is considered perfect and never played, while Near Mint (NM) records are almost perfect, with only a few slight signs of use or wear. Very Good Plus (VG+) records may have some surface noise or scratches, but they still play well without skipping. Good (G) records are heavily worn and may skip, while Poor (P) records are in extremely rough condition and may not play at all.

The record grading system is subjective, and opinions on grading can vary among individuals. However, it is important for buyers and sellers to have a shared understanding of the grading system to ensure a fair transaction. A poorly graded record can lead to disappointment for the buyer, while an overly optimistic grade can lead to disputes between the buyer and seller. Therefore, it is recommended to familiarize oneself with the grading system before making a purchase or sale of vinyl records.

As you become more familiar going through used vinyl as a buyer and a seller, grading records will become second nature and will go a long way as you continue your collecting!