My Grading Philosophy (Updated 20th Nov 2025)

• I use a hybrid of Goldmine (US) and Record Collector (UK) standards as follows:

Mint (M)

• Perfect condition in every way.
• Guaranteed unplayed or factory sealed.
• Cover, inserts, and inner sleeves are flawless.

Near Mint (NM or M-)

• Almost indistinguishable from Mint.
• Record may have been played once or twice with no audible issues.
• No visible marks, scuffs, or handling wear.
• Cover is bright, clean, and free from major defects.

Excellent (EX)

• Very light signs of use but still a high-end copy.
• Hairline marks or faint sleeve scuffs may be visible under strong light only.
• Should play near-perfectly with minimal background noise.
• Sleeve may show slight edge wear or minor handling but remains clean and attractive.

Very Good Plus (VG+)

• Better than VG but not quite EX.
• Light, non-feelable marks or occasional low-level noise may be present.
• Still a solid, enjoyable listening copy.
• Sleeve may show moderate wear, small creases, or faint ring wear.

Very Good (VG)

• Played many times and will show signs of use.
• Audible surface noise, more noticeable in quiet passages.
• Light groove wear or feelable scratches possible.
• Sleeve will show general wear, writing, or small defects.

Good (G)

• Significantly worn and may skip or repeat.
• Heavy noise and visible scratches.
• Sleeve may have tears, splits, stains, or missing sections.

Fair (F)

• Just about playable with heavy noise, jumps, or distortion.
• Sleeve heavily damaged, torn, or defaced.

Poor (P) / Bad (B)

• Unplayable, cracked, or broken.
• Sleeve badly damaged or incomplete.

• Turntable: JBL TT350
• Stereo Receiver: Sony STR-DH190
• Speakers: Mordaunt Short M10
• Preamp: Cambridge Audio MM/MC 640P
• Stylus / Needle: Audio Technica VMN95EN
• Other Notes: Testing done with standard volume, quiet room, no EQ or DSP applied.