In our grading system, the first letter corresponds to the condition of the cover, the second to the condition of the vinyl. For example, an A-/A grade means that the cover is A- and the vinyl is A.

Vinyl Condition Grading

The following grading conditions apply to the vinyl component of an album (see below for COVER GRADING). Grading pre-owned albums always has a bit of a curve, meaning that "light scuff" could be grade A because the scuff is very light and inaudible, or it could be grade B+ because it is audible.

A+Mint, still sealed.
ANear Mint: Excellent condition. (Near Mint is usually a record in perfect condition except for inaudible scuff or spindle mark)
  • There may be a slight amount of dust, or light marks from aging of the inside sleeve on the vinyl.
  • May have light scuffing, tics or spindle marks that don't sound, but may show up when tilted.
  • Should have little or no surface noise.
A- VG+/VG++: Excellent condition except for a light mark or scuff that may lightly sound.
  • Vinyl may show a slight amount of dust or dirt.
  • Scuffs or other innocuous marks on playing surface that may lightly sound, but won't affect play.
  • May have minor surface noise when played.
B+ VG: Items in this condition are generally posted only if they are unusual or difficult to find in better condition.
  • Vinyl can have some dust or dirt, and can lack a fair amount of luster.
  • Vinyl could have a mark or number of marks, that may sound, but won’t cause skipping.
  • May have surface noise, though the music is still prominent.
B VG-: Items in this condition are generally posted only if they are unusual or difficult to find in better condition.
  • Vinyl can have some dust or dirt, and can lack a fair amount of luster.
  • May have considerable scratches or blemishes on record, but still playable.
  • May have surface noise, but is not totally trashed.

Cover Condition Grading

A+ Mint: Still sealed in shrinkwrap.
A Near Mint: Cover is in excellent condition except for a little wear, small pen mark, sticker, etc.
A- VG+: An A- usually has more signs of use, such as: ring wear, corner bent, 1 inch saw cut on corner, hole punch, small stain, minor pencil notes, corners pulled in very slightly from shrink wrap, slight wear on spine, etc.
B+ Very Good: This is clearly a copy that was handled by someone a number of times and, or may have a tear along the sides, but could still be considered a decent copy.
B Fair: Covers in this condition are generally posted because the vinyl itself is collectable.