The Critic's Eye: A Guide to Grading Vinyl
The Goldmine Standard is a shared language, but sellers and buyers often speak different dialects. This isn't just a glossary; it's a translation of what those grades mean in the listening room.
Grading the Vinyl: The Listening Test
Mint (M)
A unicorn. In theory, it means a sealed, perfect record. In practice, I never use this grade. Pressing defects and warps can happen at the factory. It’s an aspirational grade, not a practical one for a critic.
Near Mint (NM)
The highest grade that matters. The record looks unplayed. The vinyl has a deep, liquid gloss with no visible marks. The listening experience is flawless. The silence between tracks is a black canvas, not a textured gray.
Very Good Plus (VG+)
The collector's sweet spot. This record has been handled with care. It may have a few wispy paper scuffs that are invisible except under a harsh, direct light. Critically, these marks are inaudible. A VG+ record provides a listening experience nearly indistinguishable from NM, perhaps with a single, isolated pop across an entire side. It is a well-preserved artifact.
Very Good (VG)
This record has a story. It will have visible light scratches and scuffs. When you play it, surface noise will be a constant companion—a gentle crackle under the music and between tracks. There may be audible pops. The crucial distinction is that the noise never overpowers the music. A well-loved but respectable copy that is perfect for listening, but not for critical evaluation.
Good Plus (G+) & Below
Let me be clear: "Good" is not good. A G+ record will have significant, distracting surface noise, feelable scratches, and may skip. Records in this range are not for listening. They are placeholders in a collection until a better copy is found, or they're purchased for the sleeve art alone.
Grading the Sleeve: The First Impression
Near Mint (NM)
Looks like it just came out of the shrink wrap. The colors are vibrant, the corners are sharp enough to be dangerous, and there are no creases, seam splits, or ring wear.
Very Good Plus (VG+)
A sleeve that has been stored with respect. It might show the faintest hint of ring wear or have a slightly softened corner. It is clean, solid, and entirely presentable, with no major flaws.
Very Good (VG)
This sleeve has lived a life. It will have noticeable ring wear, possibly a small seam split (under an inch), or a previous owner's name written discreetly. The artwork is still enjoyable, but the wear is undeniable.
Beyond the Grade: Other Marks to Know
Cut-Out (CO)
A clipped corner, a hole punched through the sleeve, or a slice in the spine. This indicates the record was sold at a steep discount from a remainder bin. It is not considered a defect for grading purposes, but rather a part of the record's history.
Promo / DJ Copy
A copy sent to radio stations or journalists for promotional purposes. Often marked with a gold foil stamp or a special label. These are not defects; in fact, they are often desirable as they can indicate a very early pressing from the first stamper.