NM - A
nearly perfect record. A NM or M- record has more than likely never
been played, and the vinyl will play perfectly, with no imperfections
during playback. Many dealers won't give a grade higher than this
implying (perhaps correctly) that no record is ever truly perfect. The
record should show no obvious signs of wear.
A 45 RPM or EP sleeve should have no more than the most minor defects,
such as any sign of slight handling. An LP cover should have no creases,
folds, seam splits, cut-out holes, or other noticeable similar defects.
The same should be true of any other inserts, such as posters, lyric
sleeves, etc.
VG+
- A Very Good Plus record will show some signs that it was played and
otherwise handled by a previous owner who took good care of it. Defects
should be more of a cosmetic nature, not affecting the actual playback
as a whole. Record surfaces may show some signs of wear and may have
slight scuffs or very light scratches that don't affect one's listening
experiences. Slight warps that do not affect the sound are "OK". The
label may have some ring wear or discoloration, but it should be barely
noticeable. Spindle marks may be present. Picture sleeves and inner
sleeves will have some slight wear, slightly turned-up corners, or a
slight seam split. An LP cover may have slight signs of wear, and may be
marred by a cut-out hole, indentation, or cut corner. In general, if
not for a couple of minor things wrong with it, this would be Near
Mint. VG -
Many of the defects found in a VG+ record will be more pronounced in a
VG disc. Surface noise will be evident upon playing, especially in soft
passages and during a song's intro and fade, but will not overpower the
music otherwise. Groove wear will start to be noticeable, as with light
scratches (deep enough to feel with a fingernail) that will affect the
sound. Labels may be marred by writing, or have tape or stickers (or
their residue) attached. The same will be true of picture sleeves or LP
covers. However, it will not have all of these problems at the same
time. Goldmine price guides with more than one price will list Very Good
as the lowest price.
G+
- A record in Good or Good Plus condition can be played through without
skipping. But it will have significant surface noise, scratches, and
visible groove wear. A cover or sleeve will have seam splits, especially
at the bottom or on the spine. Tape, writing, ring wear, or other
defects will be present. While the record will be playable without
skipping, noticeable surface noise and "ticks" will almost certainly
accompany the playback