Ask any vinyl enthusiast and they will surely tell you that nothing can match the thrill and excitement of stumbling upon a beloved or rare record in a store or collection. But before you get too excited in buying a record, you have to remember that the vinyl’s current condition can have a significant impact on both its sentimental and monetary value.
It is where it becomes important to master the science and art of grading vinyl records. Sellers and collectors alike can reach better decisions if they understand and are familiar with the ratings of vinyl record conditions. Proper rating can give you the assurance that you can enjoy your records for a long time.
However, it’s worth nothing that grading vinyl records tend to be a very subjective process with some very objective expectations. Most people have diverse opinions when it comes to the interpretation of the standards for record grading.
On top of that, the standards also differ, including the VIM record grading system and the Goldmine Standard. If you have ever experienced selling or buying vinyl records at one point, chances are you have also experienced first-hand this difference of opinion when it comes to grading.
Thus, it’s important to strive for consistent grading. After all, even the most seasoned professionals are also prone to fatigue, distractions, and many other causes of inaccuracy.
This guide to grading vinyl records focuses more on what you should watch out for during the grading of these lovely mediums of music.
Understanding the Condition of Vinyl Records
Numerous factors can influence the condition of vinyl records that can significantly impact the quality of their sound and their value as a whole. Below are some of the most important aspects you need to take into account:
- Scuffs and scratches
Scuffs and scratches are physical imperfections that can have a substantial effect on the sound quality and cause unwanted skipping or noise. Their location and severity can also affect the value of a record.
- Labels and spindle holes
The condition of the label and the spindle hole are also indications of how well a vinyl record has been maintained and cared for. Wear or damage in these particular parts can affect the value of a record.
- Surface noise
It includes different kinds and forms of noise, such as persistent hissing and light crackles, both of which can take away all the fun from your listening experience.
- Warping
Warping can occur in vinyl records because of improper storage or heat. The severity of the problem can be slight that won’t have any effect on playback. It can also be severe to the point that the record is no longer playable. It is important to understand the effect of warping in the process of grading vinyl records. This can have a direct influence on the playability and overall value of a vinyl.
Other factors like stains, writing on the cover, and seam splits can also influence the condition of a record as a whole.
Grading System for Vinyl Record Condition
The vinyl record condition grading system is the standardized way of describing their condition. The following is a quick breakdown of the different grades:
- Mint (M)
Records in mint condition are not yet played and are still in pristine or flawless condition. It’s as perfect as it was when the manufacturer launched it for the first time.
- Near Mint (NM)
Near mint records have minimal wear and have been seen careful handling.
- Excellent (E)
These records show minimal signs of wear but still play faultlessly without significant noise.
- Very Good Plus (VG+)
Records with this grade might have slight surface noise and light wear but still offers a listening experience that you will find pleasant to the ears.
- Very Good (VG)
There are noticeable noise and wear on these records but you will still have an enjoyable time listening to them.
- Good (G)
These records have significant noise and wear such as potential skips. The listening experience may already be affected but it continues to be playable in general.
- Fair (F)
Fair records have skips, heavy wear, or other issues with playback. They are usually considered not for their listening quality but for their value a collectible item.
- Poor (P)
These records are no longer playable but might still hold value because of their extreme rarity.
There are also sellers who use sub-grades and variations to offer more precise details about the condition of a record.
Practical Tips for Grading Vinyl Records
Here are some helpful tips for grading vinyl records:
- Refer to reliable resources.
Grading charts and online guides can offer comparisons and benchmarks to ensure consistent grading.
- Inspect and observe under proper lighting.
You need a bright, non-diffused, and direct source of light to reveal imperfections on the surface of a vinyl record. This will let you spot damage, grime, and wear easily.
A lot of visual grading errors happen due to inadequate lighting. Light can reflect off scratches at various angles. It will highlight dirt or damage that may add unwanted surface noise.
- Use magnification tools.
You can pinpoint smaller defects that may affect playback by using a magnifying glass.
- Clean the vinyl.
Your vinyl record may jump to the next grade letter if you clean it well enough. While cleaning alone won’t get rid of scratches or other signs of wear on the groove, this can still be of big help. You can refer to several decent methods for DIY cleaning of records that can offer good results.
This is nice if you’re just getting started, you need to clean several cheap records, or you’re on a budget. A record cleaning machine is a better option if you have a budget to spare.
- Play and listen to the record.
Playing the record is critical to assess the noise level and determine and accurate grade. Unfortunately, this is often an overlooked step in the vinyl record grading process.
Follow this simple guide to grading vinyl records so you can get more enjoyment and save money along the way.