RECORD GRADING
Each entry lists reference number, speed (LP/45), Artist, Title,
Label, Label #, Condition, comments and price. All prices are in U.S.
dollars. Every record is an original issue for the label unless
otherwise noted. All records are PLAY GRADED. Sleeves are always
graded first, eg VG+/VG- : sleeve VG+, disc VG-.
Grading is based on the Goldmine system (the old, long accepted standard for record collectors) which is summarized below:
SS (Still Sealed) - in factory fresh condition
M (Mint) - Used only if the item is unsealed but otherwise
unplayed.
M- (Mint Minus) - A record which has virtually no surface noisehows no signs of
wear. The sleeve has no more than minor defects such as almost
invisible ring wear or other signs of MINOR handling.
VG++ (Very Good Plus Plus) - Surfaces have no signs of wear or
but may have a very low level of surface noise or static that indicates that the record has been played or may not have been an audiophile level pressing.
VG+ (Very Good Plus) - may have superficial marks that don't
affect play (skips over heavy clips). Only well cared for
records are graded VG+. Surfaces may have slight signs of wear or
light scratches that don't effect listening quality. Minor cover wear
is also acceptable. This grade should be sufficient to satisfy all
but the most demanding collector.
VG (Very Good) - a used, reasonable copy. There will be
obvious signs of wear and some surface noise, but still plays quite
well. There might be a sticker or writing on label or sleeve or tape
but not all of these problems.
VG- (Very Good Minus) - more significant wear and marks and
usually noticeable surface noise especially during quieter passages.
G+ (Good Plus) - A record in this condition can be played
without skipping although it will have significant surface noise,
scratches and visible groove wear. A sleeve will have significant
wear such as seam splits/tape/writing/ring wear. From here on down
(Fair, Poor), records should be considered beat-up (read:
unplayable).
G (Good) - In the record collecting world, 'Good' does not
really mean good! G is the lowest grade used. Records in this
condition are marginal at best.
GLOSSARY (for
records) record gradi
For reference purposes, the following list contains an
explanation of some commonly used terms in record collecting:
box set = multi-LP or CD set in presentation box
catalog number = record company identifying number on sleeve/disc
company sleeve = record sleeve featuring record company
logo
compilation = collection of songs from various sources
cue sheet = printed supplement included with
radio/interview albums
deleted = no longer commercially available, ie out-of-print
dj/demo = demonstration disc pressed for reviewers/radio
stations etc
die-cut sleeve = sleeve with pattern or circular hole cut
on one or both sides
envelope sleeve/ps = thick card sleeve with envelope-style
flap opening
flexidisc = soft plastic (flexible) record
gatefold sleeve = record cover that opens out like a book
inner sleeve = printed protective sleeve for disc inside
main cover
insert = bonus item of packaging, eg postcard, info sheet
laminated sleeve = sleeve with high gloss, shiny finish
limited edition = a release pressed in a set, limited
quantity
lyric sheet = paper or card insert featuring words to songs
matrix number = unique number/letter code etched into
record run-out groove
memorabilia = collectors items such as clothing, printed
matter, backstage passes, etc
mispress(ing) = disc pressed with incorrect music, label
info or design
mono/stereo/quadrophonic = music recorded for playback
through one/two/four channels
one-sided = record with music on one side only
picture disc = record with a picture/design sealed within
playable clear vinyl
picture sleeve = sleeve with a printed picture/design
play grading = after visually assessing a record, it is put on a turntable and spot-checked with headphones so as to determine the general sound quality. It is not played through from beginning to end. The beginning of each side is played as well as possible problem areas such as marks
poster sleeve = sleeve that folds out into a poster
promo = promotional release used by DJs, journalists, etc
reissue = re-release of a recording
run-out groove = continuous groove at end of record
sampler = compilation release showcasing an artist, label,
genre etc
sealed = shrinkwrapped in cellophane (unopened)
shaped disc = non-circular release, normally shaped picture
disc
test pressing = non-commercial pressing made by manufacture
for quality control
vinyl = material from which records are made (also
'plastic', 'wax' etc)
warped = record misshapen by heat
white label = type of demo, promo or test pressing with
plain white labels
withdrawn = release removed from sale by record company |